Air Quality Testing

Hello,

We have an upcoming SQF audit. I would I to know if Air Testing would be required if the compressed air we use is ONLY for the machines, and does not go in/around food or packing. It is only used to operate the machines. The rule seems ambiguous to me, as it is not specific. 

Thanks for your help.

IF there is any chance of food contact you will need to have the routine testing.

IF you don't need to test it, do put something into writing as to exactly what it is used for, picture of machine, etc and show that to the Auditor (the document is not an SQF requirement, but it's a nice touch for the Auditor.

So, with all that said it appears you do not need to test it.

I've always defended that compressed air not used in direct food contact doesn't need to be tested, but my SOP's clearly state this in multiple places.  I throw it into relevant maintenance SOP's, I include it in our policies for processing our ingredients/products, and I triple include it in the sanitation SOP's.  I even list it in our overall EMP program, stating that if the process changed and air was used for food contact, it outlines what testing we would start to perform.  Auditors like to see that even if you aren't needing to do it, you have a plan to do it should the needs change.

I would just do it anyway  

We are in the same situation, but it's really not worth the aggravation of having to explain why you don't test