Monitoring of Handwashing Practices in Food Premises

Your request was about the following information:

Following the recent serious outbreak of E. coli food poisoning, I was disturbed to hear of some food processing factory workers joking about the very poor level of hand washing in their workplace. I understand that this matter falls under Food Standards Scotland's remit, hence I am writing to make a formal request for information under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002. Specifically, I am interested in obtaining details about how Food Standards Scotland monitors handwashing practices at food processing sites within the Agency's jurisdiction.

I kindly request the following information:

Procedures and Protocols:

a. Please provide details of the procedures and protocols used by Food Standards Scotland to monitor and assess handwashing practices at food processing sites. This may include any guidance documents, checklists, or inspection procedures.

b. Explain the frequency and methodology of inspections or assessments carried out by the Agency in relation to handwashing practices at these sites.

Reporting and Compliance:

a. Provide information on how non-compliance with handwashing standards is documented, reported, and addressed by Food Standards Scotland.

b. Explain the mechanisms in place for follow-up actions, such as corrective measures, penalties, or enforcement, in cases where handwashing standards are not met.

Training and Guidance:

a. Share any training or educational materials provided by Food Standards Scotland to food processing facility operators or employees regarding handwashing standards.

b. Describe any initiatives or campaigns aimed at promoting and improving hand hygiene practices in food processing sites.

Data and Statistics:

a. Share statistical data or reports related to handwashing practices at food processing sites within Scotland, including any trends or areas of concern identified through monitoring activities.

b. Provide information on any notable successes or challenges encountered in promoting and maintaining handwashing standards.

Policies and Regulations:

a. Share relevant policies, guidelines, or regulations established by Food Standards Scotland concerning hand hygiene and handwashing practices in food processing facilities.

There are a number of regulatory controls in place concerning food hygiene with which food businesses must comply and how these controls are applied is dependent on the specific nature of the individual business.

Local authority Environmental Health Departments are responsible for ensuring that the regulations in relation to food safety and hygiene are applied in registered and some approved food businesses. Food Standards Scotland (FSS) are responsible for approving slaughterhouses, cutting plants and game handling establishments and deliver a programme of regular inspections, both announced and unannounced, where they review all hygiene requirements, including handwashing practices. An overview of FSS approval and audit processes and list of all audit outcomes for FSS approved businesses can be found on our website at the below link:

FSS approved establishments | Food Standards Scotland

I have attached a link where you can find all of Scotland’s local authorities.