Armagh
Monday 2 December 2002
5 - 7 March 2002
The audit revealed a good level of compliance with the standard particularly in relation to investigative work.
The Council also maintained strong liaison with other councils and appropriate bodies through the Group system. Deficiencies in the monitoring of enforcement activities, the shortfall in the inspection programme and lack of information held in relation to the food standards inspections undertaken by the Council, require addressing to enable compliance with the Standard.
The authority's strengths
Advice to Businesses - The Council in liaison with Group was active in offering advice to business in the distribution of information, most notably with its programme of assisting caterers and butchers with the implementation of hazard analysis using a centrally developed training pack and the running of a series of special seminars for these business sectors.
Third Party Review - The most recent of the third party reviews carried out by Group identified many of the points raised in this report, which the Council are beginning to address. This confirms the usefulness of such a review as a tool in improving the food enforcement service provided by Councils.
Liaison – The Council benefits from strong links with the Southern Group Environmental Health Committee and it’s other constituent Councils, in terms of dissemination of current advice and guidance and ensuring uniformity of enforcement.
An example is the ISO 9001:2000 accreditation currently being developed in co-operation with Group and other constituent Councils.
Key areas for improvement
Inspection Frequencies – The Council was not carrying out its food hygiene and food standards inspections at frequencies in accordance with Food Safety Order Code of Practice No. 8: Food Hygiene Inspections and Food Safety Order Code of Practice No. 7: Food Standards Inspections.
Inspections carried out at the minimum frequency detailed in the Food Safety Order Code of Practice, ensure that risks associated with the operation of a food business are identified in a timely manner.
Food Standards Inspection Records – File records were insufficient to make an assessment of the inspection activity undertaken and to determine that appropriate action had been taken in respect of any non-compliance found.
Internal Monitoring – The Council carried out minimal internal monitoring to verify conformance with the Standard, relevant legislation and associated procedures.
A comprehensive monitoring procedure will ensure the uniformity and appropriateness of the enforcement actions carried out by its officers.
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