Hygiene & Sanitation Programs

Aligned with SQF Code Edition 9 – System Element 2.6.3

Requirement Overview

SQF Code Edition 9, System Element 2.6.3, states:

“Documented hygiene and sanitation programs shall be established, including cleaning procedures, frequencies, and verification methods to prevent contamination.”

An effective hygiene and sanitation system reduces contamination risk, supports regulatory compliance, and ensures consistent food safety outcomes.

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

Key Compliance Objectives

  • ✓ Implement a validated Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS)

    ✓ Establish detailed Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs)

    ✓ Monitor personnel hygiene practices

    ✓ Verify sanitation effectiveness through microbiological testing

Step-by-Step Implementation Guide

1. Develop Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs)

  • Each SSOP Should Include:

    • • Purpose & Scope – What area/equipment is being cleaned

      • Cleaning Materials – Approved chemicals, tools, and PPE

      • Procedures – Step-by-step instructions, contact times, and safety precautions

      • Verification Methods – ATP testing, visual checks, or swab sampling

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • SSOPs by zone or equipment type (paper or digital)

      • Chemical concentration instructions

      • Validation records (e.g., ATP swab data)

2. Establish a Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS)

  • MSS Frequency Example:

    Frequency Areas to Clean
    Daily Food contact surfaces, handwashing sinks
    Weekly Ceilings, storage shelves, light fixtures
    Monthly Floor drains, air ducts, deep clean of walls
    Quarterly Full facility shutdown and intensive cleaning

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Posted MSS with check-off columns

      • Signed supervisor verification logs

      • Digital audit trail for completed tasks

3. Implement a Personnel Hygiene Program

  • Key Hygiene Controls:

    • • Pre-Shift Inspections: Clean clothing, no jewelry, proper PPE

      • Breakroom Protocols: Handwashing before re-entry

      • High-Risk Areas: Enhanced gowning (e.g., face covers, booties)

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Daily hygiene checklists

      • Observation logs and corrective actions

      • Employee hygiene training records

4. Verify and Validate Sanitation Effectiveness

  • Recommended Testing Methods:

    • • ATP Swabbing: ≤ defined RLU thresholds for critical surfaces

      • Microbiological Swabs: Indicator organisms and pathogens (Listeria, Salmonella)

      • Allergen Testing: Post-cleaning confirmation for shared equipment

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Test results with trending analysis

      • Non-conformance and CAPA reports

      • Verification of corrective actions taken

Common Audit Findings & Recommended Fixes

Finding Suggested Action
Incomplete or outdated SSOPs Review and revise all cleaning SOPs quarterly
Missed sanitation tasks Digitize and track MSS completion in real-time
No validation or test results Implement ATP or swab testing program
Gowning and hygiene lapses Conduct targeted retraining and spot checks

Auditor’s Checklist for SQF System Element 2.6.3

Auditors may:

  • • Review random SSOPs and cross-check with actual practice

    • Inspect completed MSS logs and sanitation checklists

    • Verify lab test records for environmental monitoring

    • Observe hygiene practices during production shifts

Implementation Roadmap

Build Your Program

  • ✓ Create SSOPs by equipment and area

    ✓ Align with chemical safety and regulatory standards

Train & Launch

  • ✓ Conduct classroom and hands-on training for sanitation staff

    ✓ Post MSS in relevant departments and assign accountability

Monitor & Verify

  • ✓ Implement ATP or swab testing for verification

    ✓ Document and review results weekly or monthly

Review & Improve

  • ✓ Analyze testing trends quarterly

    ✓ Update procedures following incidents, audits, or equipment changes

Why This Matters?

Strong sanitation and hygiene programs:

  • ✓ Prevent allergen and microbial cross-contamination

    ✓ Reduce foodborne illness risks

    ✓ Support regulatory and SQF compliance

    ✓ Enhance audit readiness and operational consistency

Need Help Establishing or Validating Your Sanitation Program?

Food Safety Systems provides:

  • ✓ SSOP templates and customizable MSS trackers

    ✓ Training materials for sanitation and hygiene best practices

    ✓ Microbiological testing protocols and reporting tools

    ✓ Internal audit forms and CAPA tracking templates

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.