3. Handwashing Compliance

Verification of handwash facility readiness and direct compliance of employees entering processing zones.

What the Auditor Looks For:

Auditors watch employees entering the plant, coming back from restrooms/breaks. Sinks must have hot water, soap, paper towels, and hands-free faucet control.

Example of Compliance

Hands washed for 20 seconds at entry, after breaks, using warm water (100°F+). Sinks clean, fully stocked with antibacterial soap and disposable paper towels.

Example of Non-Compliance

Employees entering production bypass sinks. Sinks blocked by brooms or Maseca bags. Handwash faucets have manual handles and no hot water.

Mérieux Severity Guidelines:

Minor Handwash sink running low on paper towels but soap is present.

Major Sinks blocked, manual faucets with zero warm water, or multiple employees observed bypassing washing stations upon floor entry.

Critical No operational handwashing facilities available in the plant during active production hours.