Inspections take place without prior warning and higher risk premises are visited more frequently than lower risk premises.
Inspections are carried out to:
- ensure that food is being handled and produced hygienically
- ensure that food is safe to eat
- look at the potential risk of food poisoning as a result of food contamination
- ensure that food handling staff are trained in food hygiene
- inspect the condition of the premises and equipment
- ensure there are precautions to prevent pest infestation
- ensure that staff are aware of the importance of personal hygiene
In addition to our regular inspections, we also respond to food complaints from the public.
During the inspection officers will want to be satisfied that adequate controls are in place to prevent any problems, ensure staff are adequately trained and the condition and cleanliness of the premises meets required standards. We may take samples, photographs and inspect records and take food we suspect is unsafe.
Scores are awarded for food hygiene compliance, structural compliance and confidence in management, premises are not rated against the quality of the food they produce.