TERRENA RATHANLALL
Nozipho Tshakane is a food safety consultant with a master’s in medical microbiology. She has worked with numerous companies in the food, packaging and SA National Accreditation System and SA Bureau of Standards accredited testing laboratories for 14 years to ensure high hygiene standards are met.
“This is necessary not only for legal compliance but also for safeguarding the public’s health and enhancing the reputation of a business,” says Tshakane.
Here’s what she had to say on how food safety consultants can contribute to the success of businesses:
Ensuring compliance with food safety regulations
Food safety consultants are essential in helping businesses adhere to South African Food safety regulations designed to protect employees and consumers.
These regulations include guidelines set by R638, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Food Safety System Certification (FSSC).
The consultant conducts thorough inspections and helps clients implement biosecurity measures or systems to ensure that businesses meet these requirements, helping avoid legal issues and potential fines.
Protecting public health
A key responsibility of a food safety consultant is protecting public health.
They ensure that hygiene standards in facilities such as restaurants, hospitals, and public restrooms are maintained to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
By identifying and mitigating risks like contamination, auditors help keep the public safe. This role is especially important in light of recent global health concerns, emphasising the need for meticulous hygiene practices in all public and private spaces.
Enhancing business reputation
For businesses, maintaining high hygiene standards through regular hygiene audits can significantly enhance their reputation.
Customers are more likely to trust and return to businesses known for their cleanliness and safety.
This trust can translate into increased business and customer loyalty.
Moreover, having a Certificate of Acceptability and HACCP Certification can be a powerful marketing tool, revealing a business’s commitment to quality and safety.
Improving operational efficiency
Food safety consultants do more than just ensure compliance; they help businesses improve operational efficiency.
By identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement, auditors help businesses streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity. This can lead to significant cost savings and better use of resources.
Boosting employee well-being
A clean and hygienic workplace is essential to employee health and well-being. Regular hygiene audits help create a safe working environment, reducing the risk of illness and absenteeism. This not only improves productivity but also boosts employee morale and job satisfaction.
Food safety consultants are indispensable in maintaining high standards of health and safety in South African businesses.
Their role is crucial for small business owners who want to build a safer, more trustworthy, and efficient business.
By prioritising hygiene, businesses can foster a healthier environment for their customers and employees, ultimately leading to sustained success and growth.
How businesses can prepare for a hygiene audit
Preparing for a hygiene audit is essential for ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and avoiding potential penalties. Here are some steps businesses can take to prepare effectively:
1. Understand the relevant regulations
Familiarise yourself with local and international health and safety regulations applicable to your business. This includes guidelines from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and other relevant regulatory bodies.
2. Conduct internal audits
Perform regular internal hygiene audits to identify and address potential issues before the official audit. This helps maintain high standards consistently and provides a clear picture of areas needing improvement.
3. Maintain accurate records
Ensure all hygiene-related records are up to date and well-organised. This includes cleaning schedules, waste disposal logs, staff training records, and any other documentation related to hygiene practices.
4. Train staff regularly
Provide ongoing training for staff on hygiene standards and best practices. This ensures that everyone understands their role in maintaining a clean and safe environment and can adhere to the required standards.
5. Implement a hygiene management system
Set up a comprehensive hygiene management system that includes regular cleaning schedules, pest control measures, waste management protocols, and emergency procedures. This system should be reviewed and updated regularly.
6. Schedule regular deep cleaning
In addition to daily cleaning routines, schedule regular deep cleaning to address areas that might be overlooked during normal operations. This includes sanitising hard-to-reach places and ensuring all equipment is thoroughly cleaned.
7. Prepare for the audit day
On the day of the audit, ensure all areas are clean and organised. Have all relevant documentation ready for the auditor. Brief your staff on the audit process and ensure they are prepared to answer any questions.
By following these steps, businesses can effectively prepare for a hygiene audit, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and maintaining a clean and safe environment for employees and customers.
Nozipho Tshakane owns Cleanfest, which specialises in conducting hygiene audits for small businesses in the food, packaging and healthcare industries.
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