Council Continues Health Inspections
Published on 08 May 2020
Shoalhaven City Council's Environmental Health Officers are continuing to ensure that food and beverages are safe for consumption during COVID-19 restrictions.
Council Officers are providing advice and assistance to food businesses to ensure they are meeting the COVID-19 requirements and Food Safety standards during the lockdown.
Many of the local eateries are still providing takeaway and home delivery services, therefore, it is still important to ensure that behind the scenes, businesses are adhering to legislation.
Shoalhaven City Council CEO Stephen Dunshea said Officers are hard at work visiting many food premises each day.
“Officers have adopted the new COVID-19 food safety protocols to maintain the quality and consistency of food business inspections” Mr Dunshea said.
The majority of food businesses have also adapted extremely well to the changes and have greatly appreciated the support council officers have provided during this time.
“With cafes and restaurants permitted to offer takeaway and delivery service, Council Officers are contacting food businesses that are open to arrange a convenient time to inspect the premises.”
Council Health Inspectors are checking that floor markings are in place to encourage customers to practice social distancing and checking that food handlers are wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment e.g. gloves. During an inspection, Environmental Health Officers request that kitchen staff exit the kitchen area while the officer conducts the inspection.