dimanche 14 mai 2017

Recent Food Safety Regulations In Massachusetts

By Dennis Gray


To guarantee safe food handling, distribution and consumption in Massachusetts, authorities have instituted very strict measures. Massachusetts food safety guidelines and regulations enable authorities to implement policies and interpret them in a way that safeguards the lives and health of residents. The regulations also involve extensive scrutiny of workers and facilities in the industry.

One of the main regulations is the demand of employment of Certified Food Protection managers in all establishments where people eat. The requirement is that the officer be more than 18 years and be accredited to perform the role. This includes passing necessary examinations administered by various bodies but regulated by the Department of Public Health. Restaurant associations in the area offer these programs and examinations.

Employees in restaurants and eateries must also sit for particular examinations and be certified before getting employed. Though the examination is not administered uniformly, the aim is to sensitize workers on the need for hygiene and safe handling of all items being consumed. The workers understand how to handle, prepare and serve food in a safe manner. This protects the workers and clients from dinning related illnesses.

Employees working within the industry and who contract illnesses that can be spread in the process of handling need to report as early as symptoms emerge. Some of the danger signs that need to be reported include fever that is accompanied by sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, and any open cuts or wounds.

It is also important to be sensitive about the health of people you live with or come into regular contact with. This enables you to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and avoid contacting or spreading the disease to other people especially your clients. This requirement is put in place in recognition of the fact that when employees are exposed to diseases or ailments, they are likely to spread them to so many clients. Early notification will prevent spread especially when action is taken early.

The regulations require that such employees be restricted from preparation or any handling. In fact, they should be stopped from working until the condition has been cleared. In case a manager has doubts on the steps to take, he should consult with the local board of health. The basic requirement is to prevent exposure as much as possible to guarantee the safety of other employees and customers.

Regulations also exist to ensure safe handling of RTE. Anyone is prohibited from handling the foods with bare hands. The apparatus to be used include tongs, gloves, deli tissues, and spatula, among others. Jewelry when preparing or handling foods directly is restricted. The only exception is a plain ring like what is used during weddings. Your hands and arms should be free of jewelry and make-up.

Operations should be discontinued whenever the slightest sign of danger is detected. Immediately, authorities should be notified. Some of the areas of concern include continuous interruption in power supply, outbreak of a disease, fire, contact or misuse of hazardous materials, etc. This will prompt authorities to inspect the facility and propose correctional measures. It is only after the emergency has been corrected that operations resume.




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