Cleaning routine for printing presses

Hi,

We are a flexible packaging manufacturer (film and bags). We have printing presses and they can get quite messy with ink (solvent based).  

I was wondering what cleaning routine is being implemented by those in the same kind of business. Are you moping the floor every shift? 

PS: We are working towards getting SQF level 2 certified.

Thanks! 

Cris

Hi Cris, of course you need a layered cleaning regime that includes having a 'clean as you go' policy in and around the printing press.  Perhaps a wider quick clean and mop in the area each shift and maybe a weekly deep clean.  If it is in a poor state it may be wise to have a real deep clean to get the area and machines to a good standard and then implement the cleaning program to maintain standards.  All cleaning requirements should be documented in Standard Operating Procedures and a record generated when completed.  That is all except the 'clean as you go' stuff.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Simon

I agree with Simon. Deep clean, if necessary, to get up to the cleanliness level you desire; then implement 'clean as you go (eg. all ink spills get cleaned-up each shift/as needed) along with a regular scheduled cleaning (weekly, monthly, etc. as you determine by monitoring how dirty your equipment gets). You also need to be sure that regular documented cleaning under and over the webpath is done to minimize risk for product contamination.

Thanks guys! That is what I thought.

I really believe our challenge will be to change the mentality of the company: Production first and everything else is not really important including food safety. 

We are currently implementing the basis of our cleaning program (really simple tasks) so that employees see change is coming.

Thanks again!  :sleazy:

Cris