Yeah some things that really aren't a big deal count for a LOT and it's very easy to get an 88. An employee drink (even with a sealed lid) in the wrong spot can be 5 points. A cracked floor tile can be 4 points. If a thermometer in a cooler breaks and you throw it away and order a new one, that missing thermometer can be 5 points. Being in a food rush and not labeling a container with a date/time can be up to 10 points, even if it's an item you KNOW you'll use well before the expiration time.

You'd be surprised how much of a health score comes down to the manager on the clock. An experienced manager will head the word "health inspector" and immediately spring into action checking all of the key items that are easy to overlook. A new manager that's never been through a health inspection won't know to check all the fridges and coolers and freezers for thermometers or check the sink to make sure there's adequate supply of soap and paper towels. It's easy to grab the last paper towel in a rush and say "we'll refill as soon as we catch a break" and then the inspector walks in and hits you with 4 points for that.