Hi Everyone,
I'm working as a QA in a company that handles grains and flour. Recently, there is a problem that our two sprouting workers have different standards on cleaning tank, bins, etc. One is very meticulous in cleaning, while the other is a little bit rougher (all surface microbial test results are still negative). So there is a conflict between the two of workers. Although we do have a sprouting sanitation SOP that describes how to do the cleaning and how often, there is no clear standard for what level of cleaning is correct.
The solution we are currently considering is to include objective standards such as picture samples in the SOP, rather than forcing one worker to follow the other worker's own cleaning standards. However, since I'm new to the company and sprouting process, I am not quite so sure about the feasibility of setting standards by myself. For example, when processing the same type of grain for several days, is it necessary to ensure that the bottom of the tanks that are not in direct contact (loading tank, drying tank, germination tank, etc.) must be no grains left at all after cleaning every day? Or is it acceptable to clean everywhere thoroughly during the weekly/monthly sanitation?
Definitely, I don't want any threat to the safety of our products, such as the growth of Listeria, because of inadequate cleaning.
So I was wondering if anyone who is more experienced with sprouting and related cleaning work could share with your thoughts or the correct standard.
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Val