Audit Reveals Shortcomings in Sanitation Controls at Miquelon-Langlade Establishment
Date: March 12, 2013
Recent Audit Uncovers Weaknesses in Sanitation Controls
A recent audit by veterinary services has revealed several shortcomings in sanitation controls at a processing establishment on the island of Miquelon-Langlade. The audit was conducted from December 11, 2012 to May 22nd, 2012.
Inadequate Inspection Frequency and Tracking System
The audit found that the establishment’s current inspection frequency is not sufficient to control issues observed during the onsite audit. Additionally, the inspection system does not adequately track and analyze repetitive issues, making it difficult to identify systemic problems.
- Minor deficiencies are often communicated verbally to the operator without being documented.
- Major deficiencies are only recorded in a letter signed by the Chief of Veterinary Services (VS).
Over-Inspection Concerns
The audit team expressed concerns about over-inspection by onsite inspectors. The establishment’s size and distribution chain would not typically require daily inspections.
Operational Controls Weaknesses
The audit report highlights several weaknesses in operational controls at the establishment, including:
- Black plastic garbage bins placed under working tables, creating a potential for cross-contamination.
- Presence of condensation on the ceiling of the cooling room, which may have compromised product safety.
- Absence of documented operational sanitation monitoring.
- Work clothes and employee clothing stored together, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
HACCP Documentation Weaknesses
The report notes that the establishment’s HACCP documentation requires environmental testing to be performed monthly, but this has not been done since 2010. The operator does not have a requirement for environmental testing, and CA does not have any requirements for such testing.
Pre-Operational Sanitation Procedure Weaknesses
The audit team identified several weaknesses in pre-operational sanitation procedures, including:
- Presence of dried soap residue on the ceiling of the production hallway.
- Absence of pre-operational monitoring records prior to October 26th and 29th, 2013.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The report concludes that the establishment’s current inspection frequency and tracking system are inadequate. Weaknesses in operational controls, sanitation procedures, and HACCP documentation pose a risk to product safety. The VS has been advised to take corrective action to address these issues.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on an audit report conducted by veterinary services at a processing establishment on the island of Miquelon-Langlade from December 11, 2012 to May 22nd, 2012. The report highlights several weaknesses in sanitation controls and HACCP documentation at the establishment, and recommends corrective action to address these issues.