A clean workplace reduces germs, pests and contamination. Cleaning is not an extra: it is a requirement of Regulation (EC) 852/2004.
Cleaning and disinfecting are not the same
- Cleaning removes visible dirt (residues, grease) with detergent and water.
- Disinfecting reduces germs to a safe level with a disinfectant product or with heat.
A dirty surface cannot be disinfected properly: the dirt protects the germs. That is why you clean first and disinfect afterwards.
The steps of cleaning and disinfecting
- Remove coarse residues.
- Wash with water and detergent.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Disinfect with the product and the contact time given on the label.
- Rinse with drinking water if the product says so.
- Let it dry in the air or use disposable paper: wet cloths contaminate.
Cleaning products
- Always read the label and the safety data sheet: dose, contact time, precautions.
- Do not mix products (for example, bleach with hydrochloric acid cleaner ("salfumán") or with other cleaners): they can release toxic gases.
- Keep them away from food, in their original container and with a lid. Do not use food or drink containers.
- Use the gloves and protection the sheet specifies.
- Use different cloths for food areas and for other areas.
What is cleaned and how often
Your employer has a written cleaning and disinfection plan. It says what is cleaned, how, with what product, when and by whom. Follow it and sign the record if asked. Think above all of:
- food-contact surfaces, boards, knives and utensils (after each use);
- equipment such as slicers, mixers and mincers (take apart and clean);
- handles, taps, switches and telephones, which you touch with your hands;
- cold rooms, fridges and extractor hoods (according to the plan);
- floors, drains, walls and bins.
Pests: the "DDD"
Insects (cockroaches, flies, ants) and rodents (rats, mice) spread disease and contaminate food. Pest control is known in Spain as DDD: disinsection, deratting and disinfection. It is done with a pest control plan, normally by a specialist company.
What you can do:
- Do not leave food or rubbish uncovered.
- Close doors, windows and gaps; keep fly screens in good condition.
- Cover drains when not in use and keep bins with lids.
- Check goods when you receive them: boxes with insects, signs of rodents.
- Report straight away if you see droppings, gnaw marks, insects or rodents. Do not use insecticides on your own near food.
- Do not move or damage the traps and baits of the pest control company.
Waste
Remove rubbish often, keep bins clean and with lids, and wash your hands after touching them. Used oil and food waste go in their own container.
Key points
- Clean first and then disinfect, with the contact time on the label.
- Never mix cleaning products or store them next to food.
- Follow the cleaning plan and keep a record if asked.
- At any sign of pests, report it immediately.