11.3.2 - Hand sanitizers question

I work in a low risk process facilty and the code says (11.3.2) that hand sanitizers are optional....could they replace hand wash basins and hand washing? In one entrance to our plant we only have a hand sanitizer, no nearby wash basin-does this meet the code? 

Also, remember reading in the code about how to classify raw materials as high or low risk...thought I read that depending on presence or absence of the big 8 allergens was one criteria...but now cannot find!  Can anyone help?

Thanks!!

Hi, terris;

I think you may be misconstruing the code (if I understand your question correctly). This is an additional requirement for high risk, not an exclusive kill step for any category. 

11.3.2 Hand Washing

 

11.3.2.1 Hand wash basins shall be provided adjacent to all personnel access points and in accessible locations

throughout food handling and processing areas as required.

 

11.3.2.2 Hand wash basins shall be constructed of stainless steel or similar non-corrosive material and as a

minimum supplied with:

i. A potable water supply at an appropriate temperature;

ii. Liquid soap contained within a fixed dispenser;

iii. Paper towels in a hands free cleanable dispenser; and

iv. A means of containing used paper towels.

 

11.3.2.3 The following additional facilities shall be provided in high risk areas:

i. Hands free operated taps; and

ii. Hand sanitizers.

 

11.3.2.4 A sign advising people to wash their hands, and in appropriate languages, shall be provided in a

prominent position.

 

11.3.2.5 Personnel shall have clean hands and hands shall be washed by all personnel, including staff,

contractors and visitors:

i. On entering food handling or processing areas;

ii. After each visit to a toilet;

iii. After using a handkerchief;

iv. After smoking, eating or drinking; and

v. After handling wash down hoses, dropped product or contaminated material.

 

11.3.2.6 When gloves are used, personnel shall maintain the hand washing practices outlined above. 

 

Sanitizers are fine as a biocide, however are ineffective on surfaces soiled by fats, oils, proteins, etc. (or other possible contaminants). As mentioned in the above post a good hand washing policy is best for effective log reduction of pathogens. 

To best answer your question in brief. No, you will not meet the code.

I work in a low risk process facilty and the code says (11.3.2) that hand sanitizers are optional....could they replace hand wash basins and hand washing? In one entrance to our plant we only have a hand sanitizer, no nearby wash basin-does this meet the code? 

Also, remember reading in the code about how to classify raw materials as high or low risk...thought I read that depending on presence or absence of the big 8 allergens was one criteria...but now cannot find!  Can anyone help...

 

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Hand sanitizers are required under certain circumstances by SQF, they CAN NOT be used to replace hand wash basins and hand washing.  Get ready for major write up if you only have a hand sanitizer in place of a wash basin at your entrance.

As to the second one - reread what you read in SQF Code V7.2 manual