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| Suitability of chemicals used in food businesses
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Suitability of chemicals used in food businesses
Food businesses use chemicals to keep their premises clean and pest free. While there are many chemicals available, not all are suitable for use in the food environment.
Proof of suitability of chemicals
All food business in NSW are required to have documented evidence the chemicals they use in their food handling areas are suitable for use in the food environment.
Evidence of suitability includes:
- copies of labels from chemical containers supported by a letter from the manufacturer
- written statements on product information sheets from the manufacturer such as ‘suitable for use in kitchens and food preparation areas’, or
- AQIS documentation for chemicals assessed as suitable for use in export registered premises.
Food safety auditors will ask for these documents during audits to demonstrate the chemicals are suitable for use in the food environment. Supporting documentation must be retained for auditors to sight to avoid incurring a penalty.
Food businesses must have fact sheets or directions for use from the manufacturers and must train staff properly in the effective use of all chemicals. The training will also be assessed for compliance by the food safety auditor.
Material safety data sheets
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) do not provide proof of suitability for using a chemical in the food environment because they do not contain the necessary information.
MSDS provide information on how to handle and store chemicals in a safe manner and what to do if the chemical is ingested or comes into contact with skin.
They are an essential part of the occupational health and safety requirements of a food business and must be kept on the premises as stated by Work Cover.
Which chemicals does this apply to?
All chemicals that are used in, or around, food handling areas must be suitable for use in the food environment. This includes:
- all pest control chemicals
- detergents
- hand wash soaps and sanitisers (eg alcohol gel hand sanitiser)
- degreasers
- floor cleaners
- window cleaners
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