As a requirement, food establishments must pass health inspections. These inspections usually include an evaluation of all areas of the facility – particularly hazards that may cause foodborne illness. This article covers how to prepare for health inspections, what to do during an inspection, and health inspection scores. Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Inspector’s Role
Licensed health inspectors protect public health by enforcing food safety regulations. They understand foodborne illness prevention, sanitation and hygiene standards. Their aim is to identify and correct possible health risks in food establishments.
Health Inspection Tips – How to Prepare for the Inspection
Good preparation for a health inspection can affect the result positively. Here are some tips:
Know the Regulations: Know your local health codes and regulations pertaining to your business. Know what areas to watch for and adjust accordingly.
Maintain Thorough Records: Proper and current records of food temperatures, employee health and supplier information are essential. Those documents can show you care about food safety.
Prioritize Cleanliness: Clean, organized establishments usually pass inspection. Watch food preparation areas, storage areas, restrooms and employee handwashing stations very closely.
Train Employees: Make sure all employees know food safety practices like handwashing, cross-contamination prevention and temperature control.
Conduct Self-Inspections: Evaluate how your establishment is meeting health regulations. This proactive approach may uncover problems before an official inspection occurs.
What to Do During a Health Inspection
When al a health inspector comes over to your establishment, be calm and cooperative. Here are some things that you should do:
Greet the Inspector: Begin by greeting the inspector and helping where possible.
Answer Questions Honestly: Answer questions honestly and accurately about your operations.
Accompany the Inspector: Offer to accompany the inspector during the inspection to explain and resolve any problems or concerns that may arise.
Take Notes: Observations and corrective actions of the inspector should be documented.
Health Inspection Scores
The health inspection scores are usually assigned based on the severity of violations found during the inspection. Scoring varies by jurisdiction but higher scores generally indicate better compliance with health regulations. The score can be influenced by the following factors:
Critical Violations: These are health code violations involving food safety – improper food handling or contamination.
Non-Critical Violations: These are violations that don’t immediately put you at a health risk but that may still need correction – like cleanliness issues or improper labeling.
Cosmetic Violations: These are minor violations that do not affect food safety, like old paperwork or minor equipment problems.
Final Word
Health inspections help in boosting food safety and public health. Understanding focus areas, adequate preparation and cooperating may help food establishments pass inspections. Remember, a clean, well-managed facility with knowledgeable employees will usually get a positive inspection result. A good business depends on continuous improvement and food safety commitment.
