3 replies to this topic

[KarrieC]

Just got through our recertification.  Good score but we were hit with a major for something that happened outside of our scope.  A co-tenant of our building had a spill. non-allergen, non-toxic, non-bio., etc.  It's sugar.  It was all over there side of the warehouse.  We tried to help them clean it up, but it was big and the auditor came before we finished.  I want to appeal this.  I don't believe it is a food safety issue/hazard.  Undesirable maybe. It does not pose a threat to our food. We started cleaning immediately so not a failure in sanitation, somethings take time.  We didn't just leave it there.  The powder itself is not threat to our product, it may attract pests, but our pest control has been made aware of the situation and monitoring extra just in case.  So not a failure of pest control.  We did not spill it, but we are working with the other tenant to get it cleaned up (our free labor).  I requested and appeal.  this is the response I got.  What do you think my chances are?  $1000?  Is this going to an outside group or will they decide if THEIR auditor is right/wrong?

 

"Dear Karrie,

 

I understand you have requested information to submit an appeal. Please find attached the REC6 Complaints, Appeals, Disputes or Concerns Record Form to be completed to initiate the process. Please complete the first page and return to me. Upon receipt of the completed form, I will forward to our SQF Certification Manager for review and investigation. **Please note in the case of a denied appeal you will be charged an Appeal Processing Fee of $978.

 

Lastly, appealing any Non-conformance does not deter from the timeframe all corrective actions must be submitted. Meaning, you must still submit any and all Corrective Actions and Evidence to your auditor in the timeframe provided (30 days from the last day of your audit).

 

Please let me know if you have any questions."

 

[SHQuality]

How did they word the major in their report?

 

Everything you said makes sense to me, but if the spill wasn't your fault, cleaning was started on time and increased pest control checks were implemented immediately, I'm not sure what they're dinging you for. If you want any sensible answers a few more details would be helpful.

 

Did they perhaps upgrade from a minor to a major because this has been a recurring event from previous audits?

[kingstudruler1]

How did they word the major in their report?

 

Everything you said makes sense to me, but if the spill wasn't your fault, cleaning was started on time and increased pest control checks were implemented immediately, I'm not sure what they're dinging you for. If you want any sensible answers a few more details would be helpful.

 

Did they perhaps upgrade from a minor to a major because this has been a recurring event from previous audits?

 

This.  Please provide the clause and exact wording of the non conformity.   

[SQFconsultant]

I also would like to know exactly how this was worded, but also how is it that you could get a "good score" with a major.

 

My next question would be is their side open to your side - as in do you share a physical space?

 

And finally, did you argue the finding prior to the Auditor leaving the facility?

 

$978 huh?  that is fishy - a sketchy CB could make some nice change by simply saying no to all appeals.

 

I don't actually see how this would be a major, unless of course that "powder" drifted and cross contaminated your side.