Facility Design, Maintenance & Pest Control

Aligned with SQF Code Edition 9 – System Element 2.6.2

Requirement Overview

SQF Code Edition 9, System Element 2.6.2 requires:

“The facility shall be designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent contamination, with an effective pest control program implemented.”

A well-designed and maintained facility is a critical control point in preventing food contamination, supporting operational efficiency, and meeting regulatory and certification expectations.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and implementation support purposes only. Food Safety Systems is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI). For official resources, visit www.sqfi.com.

Key Compliance Objectives

  • ✓ Implement zoning and flow design that minimizes cross-contamination

    ✓ Maintain a preventive and responsive facility maintenance program

    ✓ Operate a documented and integrated pest management system

    ✓ Perform routine monitoring and improvement audits

Step-by-Step Implementation Guide

1. Apply Facility Design Standards

  • Design Focus Areas by Zone:

    Area Design Requirements
    Raw Material Receiving Covered docks, pest control barriers, positive airflow
    Processing Areas Non-porous surfaces, drainage, hygienic zoning
    Finished Goods Storage Temperature/humidity control, FIFO organization

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Original facility blueprints and as-built plans

      • Zoning and flow risk assessments

      • Airflow, drainage, and lighting design specifications

2. Implement a Preventive Maintenance Program

  • Key Elements:

    • • Maintenance Scheduling : Weekly, monthly, quarterly task lists

      • Emergency Repairs : Written SOPs for leaks, cracks, utility failures

      • Contractor Oversight : Training logs and supervision plans for external workers

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Completed and signed maintenance work orders

      • Preventive maintenance logs (calibrations, filters, surfaces)

      • Equipment repair history and tracking

3. Operate an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program

  • IPM Program Components:

    • • Exclusion: Doors and windows sealed, structural gaps closed

      • Monitoring: Rodent stations, glue boards, insect traps with ID labels

      • Eradication: Licensed pest control service using approved chemicals

      • Documentation: Maps, logs, incident reports, corrective actions

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Monthly pest control reports

      • Pest sighting logs with timestamps and resolutions

      • Updated pest control service agreements

4. Verification and Continuous Improvement

  • Routine Monitoring Includes:

    • • Monthly facility integrity checks (floors, walls, ceilings, drains)

      • Quarterly pest control program audits

      • Annual facility and pest control system revalidation

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Internal audit reports

      • Maintenance-related CAPAs

      • Pest trend analysis and follow-up actions

Common Audit Findings & Recommended Fixes

Finding Recommended Action
Gaps in structural barriers Conduct a facility gap assessment and seal entry points
Insufficient pest activity tracking Implement detailed log sheets with photos and times
Missing or incomplete maintenance logs Use a digital logbook with review alerts
Drainage or airflow issues Evaluate with a qualified engineer for redesign

Auditor’s Checklist for System Element 2.6.2

Auditors may:

  • • Inspect infrastructure: seals, walls, drains, vents

    • Review pest control service records and incident logs

    • Examine maintenance plans, logs, and work order histories

    • Interview maintenance and sanitation personnel

Implementation Roadmap

Assess Your Facility Design

  • ✓ Conduct a zoning and structural risk assessment

    ✓ Validate that materials used meet hygienic standards

Establish Maintenance Controls

  • ✓ Develop preventive maintenance calendar

    ✓ Define emergency repair response SOPs

Launch Your Pest Management Plan

  • ✓ Map and label all control devices (traps, stations)

    ✓ Document every inspection, finding, and corrective action

Monitor and Improve

  • ✓ Schedule monthly audits and pest control reviews

    ✓ Adjust layout or controls as issues arise

Why This Matters?

Facility and pest control compliance:

  • ✓ Prevents contamination and spoilage

    ✓ Supports employee safety and workflow

    ✓ Reduces audit risk and regulatory citations

    ✓ Enhances product integrity and brand reputation

Need Help Creating or Auditing Your Facility Control Program?

Food Safety Systems provides:

  • ✓ Facility maintenance SOP templates

    ✓ Pest control checklists and trend log templates

    ✓ Monthly facility audit forms

    ✓ Facility and contractor compliance training modules

GET STARTED NOW

This document is for internal training and compliance use only. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI).

Please refer to www.sqfi.com for official certification requirements.