BRC for Packaging - Protective Clothing?

Hello,

I am preparing for our upcoming BRC Packaging audit.  We are a printing company and we convert non-food contact packaging and food contact packaging (printed labels mainly.)  I am having some trouble figuring out what is needed for the protective clothing section of the self-assessment.  We do not wear lab coats in food grade lines, we currently have a policy that plain t-shirts and long pants are required when running food grade products.  We do however require beard nets and hair nets inside the food grade lines.  Although we are considered a high risk environment due to the few food contact products we run, I do not know if lab coats etc. would be required.  The policies we have in place have been sufficient in the past but I know that the BRC standards are a lot more strict than AIB.  Does anyone have any input as to what they would think is sufficient protective clothing for this type of environment?  thanks

On our food contact packaging line where there may be contact between clothes and packaging our staff wear an apron that are professionally laundered.  It is much cheaper than a lab coat, is much cooler in high heat environment and still provides protection between product and clothes. 

Hi, I am on the same boat with you. I am working for BRC and we are also packaging company. Our employees are wearing uniforms which are professionally laundered. I didn't think about having an apron or lab coat. Is it needed?

Thanks!

 

Hi, I am on the same boat with you. I am working for BRC and we are also packaging company. Our employees are wearing uniforms which are professionally laundered. I didn't think about having an apron or lab coat. Is it needed?

 

Thanks!

 

If they are already wearing uniforms most likely not, but make sure they are clean and not becoming contaminated in some form. 

It's good to know :ejut:

We issue uniforms to our employees and provide written guidelines on how to handle uniforms - from washing to transport to work and changing. They are not allowed to wear the uniform outside the primary packaging area. For visitors and non-primary packaging personnel, we require them to wear protective gowns upon entering the primary packaging area.

Professionally laundered approved uniforms yes

Aprons :uhm:

They may be suitable for some applications but I wouldn't recommend generally due to possible risks such as top buttons from the clothing underneath.

Regards,

Tony