الأربعاء، 10 مايو 2017

The Latest Food Safety Regulations In Massachusetts

By Dennis Gray


Massachusetts has implemented an elaborate program aimed at ensuring that all foods delivered and consumed in the area are safe to eat. Massachusetts food safety regulations focus on policies, necessary regulations and their interpretations to allow the government to carry out inspections and investigate complains related to foods and drinks in the area.

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.

In case an employee has an illness that could be spread through food, he is required to report at the earliest opportunity. This means as soon as the symptoms emerge. Anyone coming into contact with foods is supposed to report such symptoms as diarrhea, fever that comes with sore throat, jaundice, vomiting and open wounds or cuts on the skin.

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.

Employees exposed to diseases spread through dining contact are restricted from any handling or preparing. Such employees should be suspended from work until their condition improves. The local Board of Health or relevant bodies should be consulted in case there is doubt on the action to be taken. All actions must be taken to prevent spread or even exposure to other workers and to clients.

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.

Permit holders are required to discontinue operations and further notify authorities if they detect a health hazard like fire, foodborne outbreak, continuous power interruption, misuse of toxic or poisonous materials, etc. This allows the authorities to conduct a thorough inspection with the aim of correcting the situation. A license holder is only allowed to continue if the emergency does not compromise the health of workers or foods being prepared.




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