Water, Air & Ice Safety Controls

Aligned with SQF Code Edition 9 – System Element 2.6.4

Requirement Overview

SQF Code Edition 9, System Element 2.6.4, requires:

“Where water, air, or ice is used in production or as an ingredient, controls shall be implemented to ensure safety and prevent contamination.”

Water, compressed air, and ice must be maintained to food-safe standards across all production, sanitation, and handling processes.

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

Key Compliance Objectives

  • ✓ Ensure all water, air, and ice meet food safety standards

    ✓ Prevent contamination through filtration, testing, and hygiene practices

    ✓ Maintain validated testing schedules and emergency protocols

    ✓ Document system controls, test results, and verification records

Step-by-Step Compliance Implementation

1. Implement a Water Safety Program

  • Control Points by Use Case:

    Water Use Monitoring Requirement
    Ingredient Use Monthly microbiological testing (e.g., coliforms)
    Processing Activities Annual testing for heavy metals and chemicals
    Cleaning/Utilities Backflow prevention inspections
    Handwashing Stations Temperature and pressure checks

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Most recent 12 months of lab test results

      • Backflow prevention test logs

      • Facility plumbing diagrams indicating potable vs. non-potable zones

2. Maintain Compressed Air Controls

  • Compressed Air for Food Contact Must Include:

    • • Filtration: Minimum 0.01-micron filters for direct contact

      • Testing: Annual microbial, oil, and particulate testing

      • Maintenance: Scheduled filter changes, pressure gauge checks, and logbooks

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Compressed air quality testing reports

      • Filter change logs and maintenance history

      • Calibration records of air pressure monitoring devices

3. Establish an Ice Safety Program

  • Ice Control Measures:

    • • Production : Use designated, closed-system ice makers only

      • Handling : Use dedicated scoops and clean containers

      • Testing : Conduct quarterly microbial screening

      • Labeling : Clearly identify “FOOD USE ONLY” on machines and storage bins

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Cleaning and sanitation logs for ice machines

      • Microbiological test results

      • Supplier verification records (if purchasing ice externally)

4. Prepare Emergency Response Protocols

  • Contingency Plans Should Cover:

    • • Water supply disruptions and boil water alerts

      • Compressed air equipment failure

      • Use of alternate water/ice sources with verification

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Emergency action procedures

      • Staff emergency response training logs

      • Agreements with backup suppliers (water/ice/filtration services)

Common Audit Findings & Recommended Fixes

Non-Conformance Recommended Fix
Missing water test records Schedule third-party testing and build a testing log
No filtration on compressed air Install food-grade inline filters with PM tracking
Dirty or untested ice machines Sanitize weekly, test quarterly, and log activity
No emergency protocols in place Draft, train, and practice emergency response plans

Auditor Verification Checklist

During audits, be prepared to show:

  • • Twelve months of water test documentation

    • Most recent compressed air quality test results

    • Ice handling SOPs and sanitation records

    • Emergency procedures for water and air supply failures

Implementation Roadmap

Assess Your Systems

  • ✓ Map water and air points of use

    ✓ Review risk of contamination by area or process

Implement Controls

  • ✓ Install backflow preventers, air filters, and labeled ice machines

    ✓ Create and assign testing schedules

Train Your Team

  • ✓ Deliver best practices for hygiene and handling

    ✓ Conduct emergency drills for utility disruptions

Monitor & Validate

  • ✓ Keep testing logs current

    ✓ Review records monthly and update annually

Why This Matters?

Effective water, air, and ice management:

  • ✓ Prevents microbial, chemical, and physical contamination

    ✓ Ensures compliance with FDA, CFIA, and other regulations

    ✓ Supports audit readiness and product integrity

    ✓ Reduces risk of costly recalls or enforcement actions

Need Help Developing Your Utility Safety Program?

Food Safety Systems provides:

  • ✓ Water, air, and ice safety SOP templates

    ✓ Testing schedules and logbook templates

    ✓ Emergency response planning guides

    ✓ Staff training materials and audit prep checklists

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.