5 replies to this topic

[Gshurtleff]

Hello All,

 

I work at a honey packaging company.

 

Back when covid happened, we instituted a policy of everyone wearing masks in the production area. As time went on, we dialed it back to masks on when working around open product. 

 

My boss and I are contemplating doing away with the mask policy altogether.

 

Does anyone have any input regarding the industry standard for mask use in honey manufacturing? Any reason in particular that we would keep the policy in place?

 

Thank you,

 

G

[Brothbro]

As far as covid is concerned, masks are not a requirement in workplaces. I don't believe there is any rule stating that the honey industry specifically has any mask requirements due to risks unrelated to covid.

 

However, if through a risk assessment you find that there is a significant risk in your particular facility that could be mitigated through masks, you could be justified in implementing a mask policy as part of your PPEs.

[SQFconsultant]

Been in a number of honey facilities - nobody wears masks even during the fake virus. 

[BGAQA]

At our site for open-food areas beard covers are required for those with facial hair, otherwise masks are worn only as WHS PPEwhen needed (due to fumes or dust), not QA required.

[nwilson]

Currently in the chocolate industry, we are wearing masks in the processing areas only as a general precaution and more to keep dust inhalation under control.  I agree with a risk assessment to see if this is viable for your operation and I would be leaning more toward human health safety rather than a food safety risk.  Covid risks are fairly low depending on your location and there are many factors such as vaccinations and general built up immunity to consider.  Covid doesn't have any significant food safety impacts, hence why most of us in manufacturing were still employed and keeping store shelves stocked during the pandemic.    

 

Just my 2 cents.....

[kfromNE]

Hello All,

 

I work at a honey packaging company.

 

Back when covid happened, we instituted a policy of everyone wearing masks in the production area. As time went on, we dialed it back to masks on when working around open product. 

 

My boss and I are contemplating doing away with the mask policy altogether.

 

Does anyone have any input regarding the industry standard for mask use in honey manufacturing? Any reason in particular that we would keep the policy in place?

 

Thank you,

 

G

 

I would delete it out of the policy but still allow it. In my facility, the rooms are refrigerated. Most areas are at less than 45 F and going as low as -20 F (blast freezers). We've always allowed face coverings because of that. The individuals that wore scarfs to keep warm prior to the pandemic now where masks because they stay on better. We also recommend though don't require masks as PPE when dealing with mixing certain spice mixtures (strong).