Clarification sought on BRC Standard Issue 5, Clause 4.12

In section 4.12 , and the clause 4.12.1 It talks about product.

When i read the word product I think of finished goods and not raw materials.
From my discussion with two different auditors their interpretation said it would apply to bulk stored raw materials such as soybean oil as well as finished packaged product ready to ship. I would appreciate some input and clarification on this area to understand it better , thanks in advance.

Dear Scott Noble,

This requirement does not mention product, but product safety. Product safety is used to indicate the safety of raw materials, ingredients, intermediates and finished products.
I agree with my colleague- auditors.

Procedures to maintain product safety and quality during storage, loading and transportation shall be developed on the basis of risk assessment and implemented accordingly.

is there a specific issue you are having with this requirement of the standard?

In section 4.12 , and the clause 4.12.1 It talks about product.

When i read the word product I think of finished goods and not raw materials.
From my discussion with two different auditors their interpretation said it would apply to bulk stored raw materials such as soybean oil as well as finished packaged product ready to ship. I would appreciate some input and clarification on this area to understand it better , thanks in advance.

Have to agree with Madam A D-tor ...... The main requirement mentions product and finished product.

4.12.1 mentions unloading which by implication would not normally mean finished product.

Regards,

Tony

In previous audits at my facilities (USA), the focus has been on anything tied to: incoming ingredients/raw materials, WIP, and finished product. Your charge is to show that you have adequate procedures in place & adequate facilities to ensure food safety and sanitary condition along your entire food production chain (where/when YOU are handling or storing materials). You may have already dsicussed some of this activities, or may show them again later in the audit - there is considerable redundancy...