I worked a certain deep in technical matter and would classify Tony's pic as "flow chart". A process flow diagram should indicate material flows and equipment layout, like in this wikipedia page.
https://en.wikipedia...ss_flow_diagram
So there are different interpretations. If a standard developer (BRCGS, SQF, etc.) doesn't give a clear difinition, debates will come among who implement the standard, e.g. ceritfied sites, consultants, auditors, trainers.
Be ready for that.
Hi beautiophile,
With respect, I have a fair amount of technical experience myself
I’m afraid I can’t take the credit for that process flow diagram, it is from BRCGS Guidance and if BRCGS say it is a process flow diagram, I am not going to disagree.
I think you have got it the wrong/wrong way round as the Wikipedia reference states: A process flow diagram (PFD) is a diagram commonly used in chemical and process engineering to indicate the general flow of plant processes and equipment. The PFD displays the relationship between major equipment of a plant facility and does not show minor details such as piping details and designations. Another commonly used term for a PFD is flowsheet.
CODEX General Principles of Food Hygiene states: A flow diagram that covers all steps in the production of a specific product, including any applicable rework, should be constructed. The flow diagram should indicate all inputs, including those of ingredients and food contact materials, water, and air, if relevant.
The BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety Issue 9 Glossary states:
Flow Diagram: A systematic representation of the sequence of steps or operations used in the production or manufacture of a particular food item.
IFS Food definition of a Flow Diagram copies the CODEX General Principles of Food Hygiene wording to the letter: A systematic representation of the sequence of steps used in the production or manufacture of food.
I doubt that anyone will find a reference that a food product process flow diagram needs to include cleaning or maintenance but I’d be happy to be proven wrong.
Kind regards,
Tony
Edited by Tony-C, 01 December 2023 - 11:40 AM.