Food Hygiene Inspections

Food business operators have a duty to register their premises with their local council. All food premises are subject to either an inspection or inclusion in an alternative enforcement strategy.  The inspection of food premises is carried out in accordance with the food code of practice. All food premises are subject to a risk based assessment scheme which is used to determine inspection frequencies.  This is recalculated after every primary inspection.  Secondary inspections include the investigation of complaints, revisits, just to provide advice and guidance etc and are carried out if necessary in addition to the primary inspection. The risk based assessment score categorises premises as the following categories and inspection frequencies.

The food business operator can ask to be informed of the premises category.

The inspection process

• Officer reviews records held on premises file
• Usually unannounced visit to the food premises to carry out the inspection (note:  food businesses operating from domestic premises are given at least 24 hours notice of intention to inspect).
• Officers discuss the scope of the inspection with the food business operator or appropriate representative.
• Discuss any changes to the food business since last inspection.
• Carry out a visual inspection of the premises to make assessments on all food related activities carried out including preparation, production and storage of foodstuffs.
• Staff may be questioned about their specific responsibilities to verify that they understand their duties.
• Assess whether taking of samples necessary
• At conclusion of every inspection officers will discuss contraventions of food law, corrective actions and timescales for remedial work.

A report will be sent listing above matters and any recommendation of good practice.

Alternative Strategy

Category E premises can be subject to an alternative strategy due to the fact it is low risk premises.

This authority develops appropriate alternative strategy’s and currently operates the following:.

Self Assessment Form

Category E premises are sent a self assessment form every three years.  Completion of this and return can trigger further action being taken, this can include the provision of information, or a full inspection to be carried out.  Non returns trigger an inspection of the premises.

Fitness for Purpose Scheme

In partnership with East Dorset District Council, the local tourism officers, trading standards and fire department, we operate the fitness for purpose scheme which is now in its second year.  It is a free self assessment system for hotels, inns, guest houses and b & b's to take a detailed look at their operations.  Individuals need to complete and return the self assessment forms which are then held on file for two years before they need to be renewed.  As part of the scheme we aim to host seminars on disability discrimination and the new fire regulations.  For more details of forthcoming seminars please email ruraldorset@eastdorset.gov.uk

Approved Premises

Some food businesses engaged in the processing of products of animal origin have to be approved by their local food authority to be able to operate.  In general this applies to food businesses that process (whether through cooking/heat treatment etc) products of animal origin (meat, dairy products, fish products, egg products) and supply these products to other premises

More detailed guidance on approval premises.