5 replies to this topic

[Quality elf]

ok my question, issue. I am working with a company that wants to get SQF certified (lvl 1 for now). they have a little lunchroom with a picnic table, but it doesnt fit everyone so they put another picnic table and some chairs in the adjacent warehouse.

Ideally I would like them to make the lunchroom larger to accommodate everyone,

what are the suggestions for this issue. (they also dont have a lunchroom sink).

[Quality elf]

I should specify the warehouse area in use is for packaging items only. no product is stored in there and it also is the dock area.  

 

I know the audit guidelines say (see red), but since the warehouse/dock area is not one of those.... I was thinking of painting a line around the area and saying 'the area past this point is gmp, but within this lined area is the lunchroom'. then I just have to figure out where to put thier ppe.

 

 

11.3.10 Auditing Guidance

This element will be audited as part of each facility audit through observation and interviews with operational staff. Evidence may include:

• Separate lunch facilities are provided;

• Lunch room facilities are adequate for the number of staff;

• Lunch facilities are separated from processing, product storage or handling areas;

• Lunch room facilities are properly ventilated;

• Lunch room facilities are well lit;

• Lunch room facilities include a sink with hot and cold running water;

• Lunch room facilities are clean and tidy;

• Proper heating or cooling facilities are provided in lunch facilities;

• Hand wash signage is available at the exit of the lunch facilities;

• Hand wash signage at the exit of lunch facilities is in appropriate languages.

[GMO]

It sounds like a handling area (as it has a dock) so no I wouldn't permit it.  I don't think a line on the floor is really separated either.

[Ryan M.]

A line will not likely hold water during an audit.  I'm assuming the packaging materials have some primary packaging and come into contact with food?

 

There needs to be another solution.  Either, stagger lunches/breaks, or find another alternative area.  This is always a challenge...space, never seem to have enough.

[Quality elf]

that's what I figured but I thought why not run some other ideas past you all and see if I could save some money. oh well, as the soon to be president of the united states says ' lets build a wall'!  (that is a joke and in no way reflects any kind of endorsement for that nonsense).

[SQFconsultant]

Your lunchroom needs to be expanded to meet demand of employee count.  I've seen companies do lunch set-ups in storage and in two case smack in the middle of production - it will not fly.