Changes in the 2017 FDA Food Code now require that a food establishment have written procedures in place when there is an event that involves discharge of vomitus or fecal matter onto surfaces in a food establishment, which can be a significant public health issue. These procedures should address the specific actions employees must take to minimize the spread of contamination and the exposure of employees, consumers, food, and surfaces to vomitus or fecal matter.

In the past, there was no requirement for written standard operating procedures (SOPs) that addressed this type of clean up. This change to the Food Code stresses that procedures need to:

• Be in writing
• Be kept at your facility
• Include procedures for actions, documentation, and training

These steps are required to protect the health of those working and dining at your establishment. 
To help your employees follow the proper clean-up procedures, ServSafe and Ecolab have developed a downloadable poster and checklist to display and use in training.  The steps presented are intended to provide general guidance that can also provide a basis for your operation-specific written SOPs. These steps can be modified to include location-specific information such as what materials/products are used, where items are stored, or specific job roles responsible for each step. Your operation’s written SOPs should conform to your local health department and sanitation requirements. Contact your operation’s regulatory department if you have specific questions. 
 
Following the steps presented in the poster and checklist, in addition to implementing other aspects of a robust food safety program, can help your operation to keep food and people safe. Partners like Ecolab can help you maintain a clean and safe experience for your customers and employees across your operation. These food safety resources are brought to you by our sponsor, Ecolab.