SQF 7.2: 2.5.5 Corrective and Preventive Action

We are not SQF-certified but are looking down that road.....so I am going through the code and performing my own cursory gap analysis.

For the corrective and preventive action element of the code, what exactly is being asked for here?

It seems that the code is looking for a procedure and a database/record of corrective actions.  Is this only related to HACCP, or is it more broadly applied to non-conformances, customer complaints, internal audit findings, etc.?  

We have corrective actions outlined for CCP deviations in our HACCP master plan.  We document corrective actions taken on the HACCP Deviation Logs which are filed in our HACCP manual.  Additionally we fill out deviation logs if something goes awry with a Prerequisite program (procedure not followed). We review the HACCP plan at least annually and review any deviations that occurred and the associated corrective actions taken.  Other systems (like customer complaints) have a similar procedure but different with different record keeping and filing.

Do we need a specific procedure (SOP) that addresses corrective action and preventive action more broadly, or should it be incorporated into existing procedures, like those for product non-conformance and internal audits?  I would think that the procedure and documentation might vary depending on the target of the corrective action.

Looking forward to your input!

All of your SOPs and SSOPs (and HACCP, etc.) should include a corrective action, where one is needed for CPs.

A deviation file is where you would record the deviation and corrective action (as well as on the associated documentation, if any, where the deviation was found. I.E. Temperature out of range on a washer. The document we use to record the temperatures would have the deviation listed "Out of spec" and corrective action "Turned off machine until temperature was within spec at {insert time it was checked and verified to be back within spec}).

This information is also recorded on the deviation log.

Each CP we have has a document where we verify the CP and each document has a program that explains Who, What, Where, When, Why, How, Corrective Actions, Verification and Documentation Title.

I hope this helps! (I am not good at explaining - I am better at showing!!!)

Hi Ksullivan,

If you haven't read through the implementation guides for SQF 7.2 then I would highly recommend it.

Guidance Document for Module 2: http://www.sqfi.com/...uidance-7.2.pdf

Jump down to page 43 for specific help on section 2.5.5