5 replies to this topic

[kbyrneNC]

Good morning-

 

I'm working with our Sanitation Manager on updating our policies to meet SQF 8, and we came across 11.2.12.9, which states the following:

 

"The site shall dispose of unused pest control and empty containers in accordance with regulatory requirements and ensure that: I. Empty chemical containers are not reused; ii. Empty containers are labeled, isolated and securely stored while awaiting collection; and iii. Unused and obsolete chemicals are stored under secure conditions while waiting authorized disposal by an approved vendor."

 

Now, we've relied on the PCO to handle the disposal of any and all containers emptied during the course of a service visit, but because the standard now specifically states that the site shall handle, we're left with a host of questions regarding best practices to meet this.

 

Has anybody already put something in place to meet this requirement?  I'd love to get some feedback.

 

Thanks.

[Scampi]

Perhaps you're over thinking this?

 

The site is handling it.....you've contracted a 3rd party vendor and none of your employees touch anything managed by PCO between visits.......so if that is the contract with PCO, and you are NOT handling any of the containers between visits, you shouldn't be found out of compliance

 

So couldn't you just state the service contract in your plan and why your employees don't know if containers are empty or not (no touchy touchy)?

 

Is the specific standard aimed at companies that perform pest control without a 3rd party? Food for thought

[Tony-C]

Hi there,

 

The change summary for this clause states 'Formerly 11.2.11.7. No change.' 

 

There is a change of wording from 'supplier' to 'site' but the requirements are the same and the PCO can still handle the disposal of any and all containers emptied during the course of a service visit, you just need to make sure that happens.

 

Kind regards,

 

Tony

[Wian]

We are not SQF certified but this is what we have in place for our pesticide containers:

 

1. A lockable cage (segregated, restricted area) which has a sign that says "Empty chemical containers" as well as safety signs

2. A procedure for disposal of chemical containers:  A hole needs to be drilled/punctured in the bottom of the container and triple rinsed before storing in the above mentioned cage.

3. Service level agreement with an approved licensed contractor who periodically removes the empty containers.  The contractor also has to state where he is taking the containers for disposal. 

4. Designated lockable chemical store for unused chemicals.  This store also has a designated area for obsolete chemicals.

5. Everybody working/handling these chemicals receive training on how to handle/use hazardous chemicals.

[Tony-C]

We are not SQF certified but this is what we have in place for our pesticide containers:

 

1. A lockable cage (segregated, restricted area) which has a sign that says "Empty chemical containers" as well as safety signs

2. A procedure for disposal of chemical containers:  A hole needs to be drilled/punctured in the bottom of the container and triple rinsed before storing in the above mentioned cage.

3. Service level agreement with an approved licensed contractor who periodically removes the empty containers.  The contractor also has to state where he is taking the containers for disposal. 

4. Designated lockable chemical store for unused chemicals.  This store also has a designated area for obsolete chemicals.

5. Everybody working/handling these chemicals receive training on how to handle/use hazardous chemicals.

 

SQF Code Edition 8 has requirements for segregation:

 

11.6.4.4 Pesticides, rodenticides, fumigants and insecticides shall be stored separate from sanitizers and detergents.  All chemicals shall be stored in their original containers, or in clearly labelled and suitable secondary containers if allowed by applicable legislation.

 

Kind regards,

 

Tony

[kbyrneNC]

Thanks, everyone - your responses have been a big help; I appreciate it.

 

Kevin