SSOP # 01-01



ABC Farms

GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES (GAP)

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Including:

Farm Policies

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPs)

MONITORING LOGS

FARM MAP

[pic]

ABC Farms Good Agriculture Practices

And Food Safety Plan

Address _________________________Date____________________

Site Locations

a. _________________________

b. _________________________

c. _________________________

Persons Responsible for the Food Safety Program

Name__________________________________________

Address_______________________________________

Telephone____________________email_____________

Name__________________________________________

Address_______________________________________

Telephone____________________email_____________

Crops Grown

a. produce_______________________Acres______

b. produce ______________________Acres______

c. produce ______________________Acres______

d. produce ______________________Acres______

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR

ABC FARMS

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ADD SOP’S FOR YOUR FARM HERE

SEE SOME EXAMPLES IN FOLLOWING PAGES

SOP # 01-01

GROUND HISTORY

Considerations Made Prior to Lease or Purchase of Farm Ground

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure that land is suitable for the intended use when purchasing or leasing new ground with the intent of growing produce intended for human consumption.

Concern

Crop contamination resulting from growing in soils microbiologically or chemically tainted[1].

Contaminants Introduction:

Land previously used for animal husbandry practices (feed lot, etc.)

b. Land previously used for non-farming functions such as a toxic waste site.

c. Landfill, or the extraction of oil or natural gas.

d. Land previously used for disposal of industrial chemicals.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. Avoid purchase or lease of ground previously used for questionable practices.

b. Ideally, land shall be purchased or leased that has previously been successfully utilized for growing produce for human consumption without incidence.

c. If the land was used previously for animal husbandry practices it is recommended that there is a buffer time of at least three years.

d. For land without a history of growing produce for human consumption, a title search shall be conducted.

e. Emphasis shall be placed on identifying past owners or tenants that may have disposed of chemicals or biological wastes.

f. If a title search is not available, interviews of local residents, governmental officials or real state agents are advised.

g. If past owners or tenants are suspected of disposing questionable materials, an environmental specialist shall be consulted.

h. If past owners or tenants are suspected of using the ground for the disposal of questionable materials, soil analyses for suspected contaminants shall be conducted.

SOP # 01-02

GROUND HISTORY

Animal Husbandry

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure that contamination concerns are addressed when adjacent grounds or nearby farms are used for animal husbandry or rendering (e.g. grazing, housing, feeding, slaughtering, etc.)

Concern

Microbial contamination resulting from fecal matter, sick or dead animals. (e.g. E. coli O157-H7 in cattle or dairy cows, salmonella in fowl, etc.)

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Movement of animals from pasture, feed lot, etc. to adjacent growing area.

b. Ground sloping toward the crop contaminated by runoff resulting from rains.

c. Ground sloping toward the crop contaminated by leaking settling ponds.

d. Movement of manure resulting from wind.

e. Application of manure on adjacent growing areas.

f. Contamination from decaying carcasses.

Preventative or corrective measures:

Survey land adjacent to the ranch for animal husbandry and document findings.

a. Animal movement shall be restricted with proper fencing or other physical barriers.

b. Rain induced runoff of animal waste shall be diverted by trenching or similar land preparation.

c. Leaking animal waste shall be diverted by trenching or similar land preparation.

d. Manure shall not be stored in adjacent fields. If manure is stored in close proximity to growing crops, it has to be covered with plastic tarps or other measures shall be utilized that prevent contamination.

e. Manure applications shall be timed to avoid conflicts with growing schedules in adjacent fields.

f. Contamination caused by diseased or dead animals can be avoided with monitoring and a procedure for quick removal and disposal of the carcasses.

SOP # 01-03

GROUND HISTORY

Concerns Associated with Flooding or Breached Containment Systems

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

Addressing potential contamination issues for farms located on flood planes or utilizing surface waters.

Concern

Crops directly exposed to microbiologically or chemically contaminated floodwaters or utilizing adulterated irrigation waters (e.g. municipal waste, water treatment facility, refinery, storage facility, etc.)

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Flooding or related irregular movement of river or surface waters onto agricultural ground.

b. Adulteration of surface waters resulting from breach in a containment system or soil saturated by excessive animal waste.

c. Contamination of well waters resulting from defective casing or improper chemical disposal.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. Assess possible upstream or irrigation contamination sources. Sample and analyze flood or irrigation waters for microbial or chemical contamination.

b. Microbiologically and chemically contaminated crops shall not be sold in the fresh market*.

c. Surface waters shall be treated using an approved method (i.e. chlorination, ozonation, etc.) Chemical contaminants shall be removed using a charcoal filtration or appropriate mitigation system.

d. Well waters shall be treated using an approved method (i.e. chlorination, ozonation, etc.) Chemical contaminants shall be removed using a charcoal filtration or appropriate mitigation system.

SOP # 01-04

GROUND HISTORY/ADJACENT LAND

Animal Intrusion

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure mitigation measures preventing contamination from animal intrusion.

Concern

Microbial contamination (e.g. Escherichia coli O157-H7 in cattle or dairy cows, salmonella in fowl, hog cholera from swine waste, etc.) in crops or water sources due to animal intrusion.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Animal waste in the field.

b. Animal waste in the water source.

c. Crops eaten by animals.

d. Live or dead animals in the field.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. Pre-season, one week prior to harvest (for pre-harvest assessment) and during harvesting operations, conduct visual assessment of production block.

b. If animal intrusion is suspected, food safety assessment shall be performed by qualified personnel.

Food SafetyAssessment: If evidence of animal of significant risk intrusion into the production block is not discovered until harvest operations:

• Stop harvest operations.

• Initiate an intensified block assessment for evidence of further contamination and take appropriate actions per the aforementioned actions.

• If evidence of intrusion is discovered during production block harvest operations and the harvest rig has been potentially contaminated by contaminated product or feces, clean and sanitize the equipment before resuming harvest operations.

• Require all employees to wash and sanitize their hands/gloves before resuming harvest operations.

• If contamination is discovered in harvest containers such as bins/totes, discard the product, and clean and sanitize the container before reuse.

SOP # 02-01

ADJACENT LAND USE

Stored Organic Fertilizers (Manure Raw or Composted)

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To address the use of adjacent grounds or nearby farms for composting or storage of animal waste.

Concern

Microbial contamination (e.g. Escherichia coli O157-H7 in cattle or dairy cows, salmonella in fowl, hog cholera from swine waste, etc.) in crops in adjacent fields or irrigation waters (surface or wells).

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Movement of animal waste.

b. Retainer breaches.

c. Ground water contamination resulting from permeable soils or breached well casings.

d. Ground sloping toward the crop contaminated by runoff resulting from rains.

e. Ground sloping toward the crop contaminated by leaking settling ponds.

Preventative or corrective measures:

Survey adjacent grounds for animal waste storage or composting operations.

a. Stored animal waste shall be with plastic tarps or comparable materials.

b. Maintain the integrity of the retainer system or develop a trench system to divert contact.

c. Utilize plastic, concrete or bentoinite clay liners to control infiltration.

d. Rain induced runoff and animal waste shall be diverted by trenching or similar land preparation.

e. Leaking animal waste shall be diverted by trenching or similar land preparation.

.

SOP # 02-02

ADJACENT LAND USE

Application of Organic Fertilizers (Animal based manure or municipal bio-solids)

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To address contamination concerns from use of adjacent grounds or nearby farms for manure or municipal waste storage and treatment.

Concern

Microbial contamination resulting from fecal matter caused by application of organic fertilizer in adjacent land.

Contaminants Introduction:

Drift from organic fertilizer (untreated manure, composted manure or bio-solids) applications made in adjacent fields.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. The use of untreated organic fertilizers is discouraged because of the risk they can represent for the crop. In case untreated manure is used, consider incorporating it into the soil prior to planting.

b. Organic fertilizers shall be composted* prior to use.

c. Stage of growth of adjacent crops shall be considered prior to the decision to apply organic fertilizers.

d. Time applications prior to emergence of crops in adjacent fields.

e. After crop emergence restrict applications to soil incorporation of liquefied manure.

.

SOP # 02-03

ADJACENT LAND USE

Industrial Use of Adjacent or Nearby Land

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

Use of adjacent grounds for manufacturing or related activity that might entail the use of toxic chemicals (e.g. metal plating, mining, plastics manufacturing, chemical synthesis or formulation, etc.).

Concern

Chemical contamination resulting from air emissions or tainted waters used for irrigation.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Suspicion that the industrial site near to the farms may present a possible contamination source.

b. Toxic waste is emitted by the industry near the farm.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. An analysis of any soils or waters suspected of being contaminated shall be conducted.

b. If soils or irrigation waters are contaminated, a local environmental engineering firm shall be retained to assist in designing and implementing remediation measures.

SOP # 03-03

ADJACENT LAND USE

Pesticide Drift

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To address contamination concerns related to drift of pesticides from adjacent grounds.

Concern

The drifted pesticide does not have a registration, tolerance or an action level associated with the commodity subjected to the drift or the drift results in a residue level that exceeds the United States Environmental Agency's tolerance.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Pesticide drift coming from another crop.

b. Pesticide drift carried by the wind.

c. Pesticide drift coming from excessive pressure nozzle.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. All suspected incidences of drift shall be reported to management. Sample of the commodity shall be sampled prior to harvest and tested to confirm or refute the reported incidence.

b. Crops containing non-registered pesticides or pesticide residues at violative levels shall be destroyed.

c. Monitoring for residues shall continue until levels have degraded to a non-detectable level.

d. Microbiologically and chemically contaminated crops shall not be sold in the fresh market*.

e. Buffer zones shall be used whenever possible.

f. All pesticide applications shall be applied while wind speed, including gusts, is low enough to avoid drift. Maximum allowable wind speeds will vary depending on the means of application (i.e. aerial, ground, electrostatic, etc.)

g. Applicator SOP shall clearly define appropriate application technology including nozzle type & pressure for a specific application. (Use of adjuvant with known efficacy as a drift retardant.)

SOP # 04-01

FERTILIZER USAGE

Selection and Application of Animal Waste Based Soil Amendments

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure the choice of material used for maintaining soil organic matter levels, resultant soil aggregation, soil nutrient levels, plant vigor, yield and related properties addresses potential contamination concerns.

Concern

Crop contamination resulting from human pathogens.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Use of untreated manure.

b. Use of composted manure.

c. Manure sourced from a questionable supplier.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. Untreated manure shall not be applied within 60 days of harvest, or longer depending on the specific crop (e.g. 120-150 days for stone fruits). It is recommended to plan crop rotations where manure is applied to field planted crops that are to be cooked or heat processed prior to consuming.

b. When using composted manure it is recommended to follow GAP guidelines such as maximizing time between application and harvest.

c. Plot and field records shall identify all composted manure applications by supplier identification (e.g. lot number, etc.)

d. Composted manure suppliers shall be selected with emphasis on verifiable compliance with approved composting practices.

e. Source material (i.e. percentage of animal, vegetable, etc.) of composted material shall be supplied and files maintained.

f. Periodic review of composted manure supplier's records including temperature logs; turn frequency and microbial testing shall be conducted and recorded. Selection of a composted manure supplier shall be contingent on the firm's ability to supply documentation in a timely fashion.

g. Application of composted manure shall be made prior to planting annual or biennial crops. Application of composted manure to perennials shall be conducted during the plants dormant period and incorporated into the soil immediately after application.

SOP # 04-03

FERTILIZER USAGE

Use of Chemical Fertilizers for Crop Nutrients

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

Choice of material used for maintaining crop vitality, vigor and productivity.

Concern

Crop contamination resulting from chemical contamination.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Direct contact of the chemical fertilizer with the crop resulting in heavy metal, isotope contamination or other related chemical contaminates.

b. Chemical fertilizer source from a questionable supplier.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. All chemical fertilizers shall meet state* guidelines regulating purity and content.

b. A review of the manufacture's or distributor's Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

c. Plot & Field records shall identify all chemical fertilizer applications by supplier identification (e.g. lot number, etc.)

d. Farming operations shall develop a protocol for developing an approved supplier list.

e. Application of chemical fertilizers shall be limited to material sourced from approved suppliers.

f. Supplier's records shall be audited periodically.

SOP # 04-04

FERTILIZER USAGE

Application Procedure for Fertilizers and Organic Soil Amendments

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure that after selection of appropriate organic and/or chemical fertilizer application procedures, procedures are compliant with good agricultural practices.

Concern:

Direct exposure of the edible portion of the produce with manure or mineral fertilizers.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Use of untreated manure.

b. Composted manure applications made during the growing season.

c. Chemical fertilizers applied during harvest and in a manner that allows direct contact with the crop.

Preventative or corrective measures:

a. Untreated manure applications restricted to applications made prior to planting. It is recommended to avoid the use of untreated manure, because it has a high-risk level associated with containing plant or human pathogens, etc.

b. Untreated manure applications and composted manure applications shall follow GAP guidelines such as maximizing time between application and harvest, and planing crop rotations.

c. All composted manure applications are soil incorporated immediately to facilitate rapid incorporation into soil organic matter (i.e. fulvic acid, humic acid, humin, etc.) and breakdown.

d. Application and dispersal mechanisms shall provide relatively even applications.

e. Planting beds can be covered with plastic, reducing soil and plant contact.

f. Chemical fertilizers applied during the season can be applied through the drip irrigation system, if available.

SOP # 05-01

WATER USAGE

Microbiological Contamination of Water

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

Use of water as a carrier for pesticides, fertilizers or other plant protection or growing aids. Water used for irrigation, for rinsing crops, frost protection, etc.

Concern

Water can be a vector for microbes including human pathogens (e.g. E. coli, cholera, salmonella, etc.).

Contaminants Introduction:

Though the level of the water’s contamination is assumed to be important, the level of risk that tainted waters pose in production agriculture is poorly understood.

Preventative measures (microbial monitoring):

WELLS (CLOSED):

• Frequency - Sample collected is to be accomplished prior to each harvest season and continued annually.

• Location - If a filtering system is present, samples are to be taken after the water passes through the filtering system. If a filtering system is not present, then the sample shall be taken at the well head. If a filtering system is not present and a sample cannot be taken at the well head, then a sample can be taken at some point beyond the well head.

• Results - The samples will initially be analyzed for E.coli, as indicator of fecal contamination, if contaminated the grower will take immediate action to correct the problem. Additional analyses will be conducted on a daily basis until the contamination issue has been addressed and negative analytical results have been produced.

• Retest - Water Source will be sampled and re-tested after corrective measures have been implemented to confirm their effectiveness.

OPEN WATER SOURCES:

• Frequency - Sample collection is to be accomplished prior to the beginning of each harvest season and continued on a quarterly basis (if surface water is used).

• Location - If a filtering system is not present, the sample shall be taken at the water source. If a filtering system is not present and a sample cannot be taken at the water source, a sample can be taken at some point beyond the booster pump.

• Results - The samples are to be analyzed for E.coli, if there is a positive detection of this microorganism, the grower will implement corrective action. Additional analyses will be conducted on a daily basis until the contamination issue has been addressed and negative analytical results have been produced.

• Retest - Water source will be sampled and re-tested after corrective measures have been implemented to confirm their effectiveness.

For municipal water: Ask for the report of quality water test and keep this record on file.

Corrective Measures

The number of possible causes of water contamination can be numerous. Addressing a specific cause will at times require creativity and flexibility. We offer the following suggestions as possible mitigation measures, knowing that in most cases our growers will be the best source for providing specific solutions. Please keep in mind the following: corrective measures must be effective, provide on going prevention and confirmed as efficacious

a. For a well tainted by a microorganism, where the cause of contamination results from a single isolated atypical or non-repetitive event (i.e. flooding,) a possible corrective measure would be shocking the well with chlorine*.

b. If a breach in the well's casing has resulted in the well being more susceptible to contamination then the casing shall be repaired or an alternative water source shall be found.

c. If the water source can not be treated and is suspected or confirmed to be contaminated an alternative (i.e. different well, etc.) shall be used.

d. For water sources that are contaminated and where alternative water supplies are not available an automatic chlorination system is a possible mitigation measure.

* In the United States chlorine is commonly the material of choice for treating waters to kill or eliminate many microbes. Some microbes in certain stages of development are not impacted by chlorine (i.e. Cryptosporidium, etc.). Strictly adhere to the restrictions and guidelines specified on the label.

SOP 05-02

WATER USAGE

Chemical Contamination of Water

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure that water used for irrigation, frost protection, as a carrier for pesticides and fertilizers, etc. is of adequate quality for its intended use, and steps are taken to minimize the risk of microbial contamination.

Concern

Water can be a carrier for chemicals including pesticides, fertilizers, etc.

Contaminants Introduction:

Back siphoned pesticide/fertilizers application applied through an irrigation system.

Well contamination by agricultural chemicals (agricultural chemical additions, mixing, flushing sprays, cleaning equipment).

Accidental spill from a concentrated product.

Preventative or corrective measures:

The number of possible causes of water contamination can be numerous. Addressing a specific cause will at times require creativity and flexibility. We offer the following suggestions as possible mitigation measures, knowing that in most cases our growers will be the best source for providing specific solutions. Please keep in mind the following: corrective measures must be effective and provide an ongoing prevention

For a well tainted by a chemical where the cause of contamination results from a single isolated atypical or non-repetitive event (i.e. back siphoned pesticide application applied through an irrigation system) after removal of contaminated soil, pumping the well dry repetitively and testing for residual chemical is advised*. The use of filtration (i.e. activated carbon) system that is designed to remove the chemical would provide added insurance.

Irrigation systems shall utilize check valves. Position the check values to prevent well or other water source contamination from agricultural chemicals introduced through the irrigation system. Check valves shall be tested periodically to assure they are in working order.

The addition, mixing and disposal of all agricultural chemicals shall be done as prescribed by local, state and federal laws, regulations and guidelines. Care shall be taken to avoid well contamination by any agricultural chemical (i.e. agricultural chemical additions, mixing, flushing spray tanks, cleaning equipment, etc.). All agricultural chemical additions, dilutions, etc. shall be prohibited within 30 feet of the well head.

a. Soils exposed to excessively high concentrations of pesticides (i.e. accidental spill of a concentrated product) shall be removed and disposed of properly.

b. A sample of water shall be taken and analyzed from all wells suspected of being contaminated. Waters that may pose a risk of contaminating crops shall not be used until the effectiveness of the mitigation measures have been verified through analyses.

CLIENT GUIDELINES

Water Sampling for Microbiological Analysis

SUPPLIES:

Alcohol wipes Cooler with gel ice packs

Rubber gloves Water resistant marker

Sterile sample containers with sodium thiosulfate as necessary

REMARKS:

1. Do not open the sample container until just before taking the water sample.

2. At no time should the sampler’s fingers come in contact with the inside of the sample

container.

3. Collect samples for microbiological examination in sterile containers. If necessary,

ensure the sample container contains sodium thiosulfate. Contact the microbiology

lab for instructions.

4. If sampling open tanks, rivers, reservoirs or other sources that require dipping the

container into the source, sterile bottles are required as sample containers.

5. The time between collection and the start of analysis shall not exceed 24 hours.

6. Use a new pair of rubber gloves for each sample.

PROCEDURE:

Preparation

1. Using a marker record the following information on an unopened sample container –

date, sample location and sample time.

2. Proceed to sample area.

3. Before opening sample container, put on rubber gloves.

Potable Water & Wastewater

Distribution System

1. If the water sample is to be taken from a distribution system tap without attachments,

select a tap that is supplying water from a service pipe directly connected with the

main, and is not, for example served from a cistern or storage tank.

2. Disinfect the tap with an alcohol wipe.

3. Open tap fully and let water run to waste for at least 3 minutes or for a time sufficient

enough to permit flushing of the entire service line whichever is longer.

4. Slowly fill the container to the line as indicated on the container. Do not let the

container overflow if sodium thiosulfate is used.

Rivers, Streams, Lakes, Reservoirs, Springs or Shallow Wells

1. Samples shall be representative of the water that is the source of supply to

consumers. It is undesirable to take samples too near the bank or too far from the

point of drain off, or at depth above or below the point of drain off.

2. Grasp a bottle by its base and plunge into the water source with the neck facing

down.

3. Turn the bottle until the neck is pointing slightly upward and the mouth is directed

toward current (if any) and allow bottle to fill. After filling, remove bottle from water

with the neck pointing up, there should be no air gap.

4. Tightly cap the bottle.

Note: Stream studies may be short-term high intensity efforts. Select bacteriological

sampling locations to include a baseline location upstream from the study area, industrial and municipal waste falls into the main stream study area.

Transportation

1. Place the sample in the cooler and place a sufficient amount of gel ice packs to keep

the sample cold during transport to the laboratory.

2. Transport the samples to the laboratory.

SOP # 06-01

PEST CONTROL MEASURES AND THE USE OF AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS

Pesticide Usage

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

ABC Farms encourages and promotes the use of integrated pest control procedures. Where crop protection requires the use of agricultural chemicals ABC Farms requires strict adherence to all local, state and federal laws and regulations.

Concern

Crop exposure to illegal pesticide residues. Crops containing pesticides which exceed legal tolerances.

Contaminants Introduction:

There are three main causes for the presence of non-registered pesticides or volatile levels of approved pesticides:

a) drift from adjacent fields

b) contamination from improperly cleaned tanks

c) application of non-registered product

Preventative or corrective measures:

Implement effective program to ensure products are not exposed to illegal pesticides and do not contain pesticide residues which exceed legal tolerances. This would include:

a) Adoption of Integrated Pest Management programs and evaluation of alternative crop management practices in relation to pesticide usage

b) Only employees under the supervision of licensed or certified pest control operators meeting local regulatory requirements for registration, certification or licensing may apply pesticides.

c) If contract pest control operators are used, the supplier or co-packer shall be aware of the types and amounts of pesticides used and must accompany the pest control operator on the premises at least quarterly to confirm that label directions and proper practices are being followed.

SOP # 07-01

PESTICIDE MONITORING

Guidelines and Residue Sampling/Testing Protocol

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

Random sampling for residue analysis on produce will be conducted prior to harvesting the crop or at the dock prior to shipment. To confirm verification of adherence to all local, state and federal laws and regulations.

Concern

Random samples of produce will be harvested and analyzed for pesticide residues

Sampling Procedures:

a. Representative samples (pre-harvest or dock) of product shall be taken and submitted to a certified laboratory for pesticide residue analysis.

a. Product shall not be shipped until informed by laboratory that product is within U.S. legal pesticide tolerances

Preventative or corrective measures:

If an over tolerance problem is found the following actions shall be taken:

a. The laboratory shall re-test the sample to confirm their original results using sub-samples held by the laboratory.

b. If the field is not harvested, another sample shall be taken and submitted for pesticide residue analysis. Multiple samples may be taken from defined sectors of the field to indicate if a drift problem exists.

c. If an illegal tolerance problem is found the following actions shall be taken:

The laboratory shall re-test the sample to confirm their original results using sub-samples held by the laboratory.

c. If the presence of illegal residues is confirmed, all products shall be recovered and destroyed.

SOP # 08-01

FIELD SANITATION

Employee Hygiene

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To address correct worker hygiene practices and reduce the potential for food contamination by an employee, either by his/her actions, hygiene, health, or habits.

Concern:

All persons working in direct contact with food, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials must follow proper food-handling techniques and food protection principles. Failure to follow these principles may lead to contamination of food resulting in adulterated product and/or food borne illnesses.

Contaminants introduction:

Poor personal hygiene practices and bad work habits.

a. Not washing hands when it is required, or washing hands improperly.

b. Hair that can cause physical contamination of the product.

c. Use of soiled clothing.

d. If gloves are used, they are dirty and in a very bad condition.

e. Eating, smoking, tobacco use, spitting or drinking in harvest areas that can cause pest harborage.

f. Use of unsecured jewelry that may fall into the product, and because of product's characteristics can cause physical contamination of the product.

g. Employees with open wounds and/or infections, or communicable diseases that can contaminate the product.

Preventative or corrective measures:

Training must be addressed to all the employees focusing on the following good hygiene practices:

a. In order to avoid spreading of human germs, it is necessary to maintain clean hands. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly and dry with single use disposable towel (sanitize hands to prevent contamination by undesirable microorganism). Wash in an adequate hand washing facility before starting work, after using the restrooms, after each absence from the workstation and any other time when the hands may have become excessive soiled or contaminated materials.

b. It is recommended, if appropriate to the application, to wear hairnets, headbands, caps, beard covers, or other hair restraints.

c. When it is convenient for the operation, wear clean, protective outer garments that protect against contamination of the product. Protective outer garments shall be removed when leaving the harvest area for break, restroom use, etc.

d. If gloves are used, is recommended to keep them in a clean, sanitary and intact condition, they shall be of an impermeable material.

e. It is recommended do not store clothing or other personal belongings in areas where food is present or where equipment or utensils are washed.

f. Remove all unsecured jewelry and other objects that might fall into food, equipment or containers. If hand jewelry cannot be removed, gloves made of an impermeable material (rubber or latex) shall be worn.

g. Workers who have a lesion present that can not be covered in a way that contact with product or equipment is prevented, or workers with a communicable disease shall not be working in any aspect related to product, utensils, equipment, water, etc. Any worker showing symptoms of infectious disease shall not work with fresh produce.

h. Take other necessary precautions to protect against contamination of product, or materials with microorganisms or foreign substances by controlling perspiration, and not wearing excessive cosmetics perfumes, chemicals, or medicines applied to the skin.

i. All food handlers and supervisors shall receive appropriate training in proper food-handling techniques and food protection principles. They shall be made aware of the dangers of poor personal hygiene and unsanitary practices.

j. Employees are to notify their supervisor if any commodity, packaging material, and/or harvest equipment comes into contact with blood or other bodily fluid, (human or animal). The supervisor is instructed to destroy/dispose of the contaminated product and clean/sanitize food contact surfaces immediately.

k. No visitors or other persons under the age of 18 are permitted in the growing/harvest area.

References:

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), 21 Part 110.5 Current Good Manufacturing Practice

SOP # 08-02

FIELD SANITATION

Sanitary Facilities

Approval by: Date:

Revision Date:

Purpose:

To ensure that sanitary facilities are maintained in accordance with laws and regulations describing field sanitation practices. To address correct worker hygiene practices and reduce the potential for food contamination by an employee, either by his/her actions, hygiene, health, or habits.

Concern:

All persons working in direct contact with food, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials must follow proper food-handling techniques and food protection principles. Failure to follow these principles may lead to contamination of food resulting in adulterated product and/or food borne illnesses.

Contaminants Introduction:

a. Inadequate hand-washing facilities.

b. Improperly maintained hand-washing facilities.

c. Improperly maintained toilet facilities.

d. Inadequate trash disposal.

Preventative or Corrective Measures:

All reasonable measures shall be taken to assure the following:

a. You shall consult your state regulations to determine the appropriate number of toilet facilities. Every single toilet facility may be utilized if it can be locked from the inside.

b. Each toilet facility must have toilet paper in a proper holder.

c. Each toilet facility must be kept in a clean and sanitary condition.

d. It is recommended to have a current cleaning check sheet indicating each time the facility has been cleaned.

e. It is important to consider the proximity and accessibility of toilet facilities. Workers shall always have the opportunity to use the facilities when they require them.

f. The hand washing facility must have sufficient water available for use, and the water supply shall be labeled 'This water for hand washing purposes only' in a language understood by the workers.

g. The hand-washing facility must have unscented soap in a proper dispenser.

h. The hand-washing facility must be supplied with single use disposable towels in a proper holder.

i. The hand-washing facility shall have a receptacle capable of keeping the trash contained.

j. It is recommended that each toilet/hand-washing facility have a supplies check sheet available indicating date checked and when supplies have been refilled.

k. The portable toilet facilities shall be cleaned and serviced away from the field.

l. When serviced by septic trucks near the field, all steps shall be taken to minimize the likelihood of crop contamination in the event of leakage or a spill.

References:

* Occupational Safety and Health Act 29 CFR 1928.110, subpart I, subpart J.

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), 21 Part 110.5 Current Good Manufacturing Practice

SOP # 08-03

FIELD SANITATION

Harvesting Equipment and Machinery Maintenance and Cleaning

First approval by: XXXX Revision Date: MO/DA/YEAR

Second approval by: XXXX

Purpose:

To ensure that sanitary facilities are maintained in accordance with laws and regulations describing field sanitation practices.

Concern:

Food-contact surfaces must be properly sanitized and follow food safety principles. Failure to follow these principles may lead to contamination of food resulting in adulterated product and/or food borne illnesses.

Contaminants Introduction:

1. Equipment lubricants contaminating product.

2. Equipment fuel contaminating product.

3. Loose items falling from the equipment.

Preventative or Corrective Measures:

All reasonable measures shall be taken to assure the following:

a. All excess lubricants must be removed from the equipment prior to start operations.

b. Fuel tank must be kept closed or covered. Fuel containers must be kept on the back of the machinery where there is no risk of product contamination.

c. Mechanics must be notified of any condition of the equipment that represents a product contamination risk or employee safety risk.

d. Only food grade lubricants (where practical) must be used in the machinery.

e. In the event of hydraulic fluid spills/leaks, all products that come in contact with the fluid must be discarded and production shall not resume until all food contact surfaces involved in the spill are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.

f. All the lights in/on the machinery must be shatter proof or properly covered/protected.

When sanitizing the machine:

a. Equipment and machinery must be cleaned and sanitized after each workday.

i. The equipment food contact surfaces are rinsed with chlorinated water (ORP 650-950mV).

ii. Green Power with the use of a scrubber or a brush, excess dirt and adhered materials are removed.

iii. A pressure washer and chlorinated water that is used to rinse loose materials from equipment surfaces.

b. Record the daily cleaning of machinery and equipment in the Equipment Cleaning Log.

SOP # 08-04

FIELD SANITATION

Cleaning and Sanitizing of Harvesting Tools and Harvest Practices

First approval by: XXXX Revision Date: MO/DA/YEAR

Second approval by: XXXX

Purpose:

All persons working in direct contact with food, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials

must follow proper food-handling techniques and food protection principles. Failure to follow these

principles may lead to contamination of food resulting in adulterated product and/or food borne illnesses.

Concern:

Food-contact surfaces must be properly sanitized and follow food safety principles. Failure to follow these principles may lead to contamination of food resulting in adulterated product and/or food borne illnesses.

Contaminants Introduction:

Microbial, chemical or physical contamination introduction due to improper handling, sorting or packaging during harvesting.

Preventative or Corrective Measures:

All reasonable measures shall be taken to assure the following:

a. All employees must wash hands before starting to work, before and after each lunch, before and after using the toilets and at any time that hands might be contaminated.

b. Harvesting tools (knives) must be clean and in sanitary condition before starting to work. When not in use -during breaks or going to the toilets- knives must be kept inside a disinfectant solution. The use of knife sheaths is restricted to certain positions in the harvest crew.

c. Harvesting equipment (gloves, aprons and sleeves) must be clean and in sanitary condition before starting to work. Harvest employee gloves must be kept with their knives when going to the toilets or during breaks inside designated containers. Aprons and sleeves as well as packers gloves must be kept underneath the product cartons or hanging on the machine structure in a manner to prevent product contamination when on breaks or going to the toilet. Storing harvesting equipment inside packaging materials is prohibited.

d. Avoid as much as possible direct contact with soil/mud.

e. Any product that might be considered to have become contaminated during ground packing must be discarded.

f. When changing from one field to another during a workday, all of the harvesting equipment (knives, aprons, sleeves, etc.) must be kept under the foreman or the bus driver control. When arriving to the new field knives and gloves must be washed and sanitized prior to reassuming work.

g. Employees are prohibited from storing personal belongings (coats, jackets, lunches, etc.) in areas where product is present or where equipment and/or harvest tools are washed.

h. The use of packaging materials for any purpose (trash can, seats, lunch tables, store other items, etc.) other than to pack produce is prohibited.

i. Cartons/reusable containers must be left on top of pallets or on transport trailers to avoid contamination with the ground.

j. Packaging materials/reusable containers must not be used to store any other item than produce.

k. If need to be stored out in the field, packaging materials shall be covered with a plastic tarp or maintained in its original packaging.

l. Plastic bins must be inspected prior to use and in the event of finding contaminants inside, they must be removed and containers must be cleaned and sanitized prior to use.

MONITORING LOGS FOR

ABC FARMS

ADD LOGS/FORMS FOR YOUR FARM HERE

SEE SOME EXAMPLES IN FOLLOWING PAGES

|ABC Farms |

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|Water Sampling Monitoring Log |

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|Water Sampling Monitoring Log |

|Date |Sample description |Requested Analysis |Initials |

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|ABC Farms |

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|Employee Non-Compliance Form |

Date:

Employee Name:

Supervisor:

Employee was found in violation of the following regulation:

_______________________________________________________________________

e.g. Clean clothing not worn

Hairnet (where appropriate), not worn properly

Rubber gloves not worn where appropriate

Wearing hand jewelry or watches in the re-packing area

Not using hand/gloves dip stations

Eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing tobacco in the re-packing area

Wearing smock or carrying gloves outside of processing area

Not using facial mask while suffering a respiratory illness

Unsafe use of equipment

Product Abuse (describe)

The Supervisor notifies the employee of the violation and explains the reasoning behind the regulation.

1st Warning (Verbal): 3rd Warning (Disciplinary):

2nd Warning (Written): _____________

Supervisor has given the appropriate warning:

Signature Date

Employee understands the significance of the violation:

Signature Date

|ABC Farms |

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|NUOCA LOG (Notice of Unusual Occurrence and Corrective Action) |

Date: Time of Occurrence:

Description of Problem or Occurrence:

Corrective Action:

Reported By: ___________________________________________________________

Supervisor on Duty: ______________________________________________________

|ABC Farms |

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|Employee Education and Training Log |

|Date of Training |Topic |

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|The following employees were present |Materials: |

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|1 |21 |

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|2 |22 |

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|3 |23 |

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|4 |24 |

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|6 |25 |

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|6 |26 |

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|7 |27 |

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|8 |28 |

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|9 |29 |

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|10 |30 |

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|11 |31 |

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|12 |32 |

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|13 |33 |

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|14 |34 |

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|15 |35 |

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|16 |36 |

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|17 |37 |

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|18 |38 |

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|19 |39 |

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|20 |40 |

|ABC Farms |

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|Equipment Cleaning Log |

|Date |Time |Tools | Harvest Equipment # | RPC |Initials |Comments |

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|ABC Farms |

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|Application Equipment Calibration Log |

Equipment To Be Calibrated (Manufacturer Name & Equipment Model): Broadcast & Speed Sprayers

Operation:__Joe Bloggs_____ Date: mm/dd/yyy___________

Materials: _Manufacturers Manual, Buckets, Stop Watch, Scales, Calibration Calculation Sheets and Calculator

|Equipment Model |Serial # |Location |Results |Corrective Action |

|Kuhn XYZ Ranchero |123456 |Home Ranch |See Attached |None |

|Broadcaster | | |Calibration | |

| | | |Information Sheet | |

|Agritech A7 Speed |654321 |Home Ranch |See Attached |Noted excessive nozzle wear. Replaced nozzles and re-calibrated. |

|Sprayer | | |Calculations | |

|XXXXXXXX |XXXXX |XXXXX |XXXXX |XXXXXXXXXXX |

|XXXXXX |XXXXXX |XXXXXX |XXXXX |XXXXXXXXXXX |

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|ABC Farms |

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|Pesticide Inventory Log |

Chemical Store Inventory System

1) Note Product Name and Pack Size.

2) Record new chemical purchases under “Good Ins” column, noting the invoice number.

3) Record stock on-hand; include any new stock in the “Stock” column.

| |Date |

|Product Name & Pack Size |Good Ins |Stock |

|XYX Product (5 Gallon Containers). |0 |40 |

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|Stock Checked By |Joe Bloggs |

|ABC Farms |

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|Pesticide Application Log |

|Crop Name/Variety | |Recommendation # |XXXXXXXX |

|Application Location | |Work Order # |XXXXXXXX |

|Start Date & Time |hh:mm mm/dd/yyyy |Finish Date & Time |hh:mm mm/dd/yyyy |

|Application Method & Equipment # |boom, speed spray, chemigation, aerial |Weather Conditions |Wind speed, wind direction, temperature, humidity |

|Trade Name |Active Ingredient |

|Applicator(s) Full Name(s) | |

|Record Completed By | |Completion Date |mm/dd/yyyy |

|ABC Farms |

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|Fertilizer Application Log |

|Application Date |

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|Portable Toilet Servicing Log |

Date |Emptied toilet?* |Cleaned & trash removed? |Replaced hand washing water |Re-stock toilet rolls? |Re-stock soap? |Re-stock

paper towels? |Who did the work? | |01/01/12 |Y |Y |Y |Y |Y |Y |MJ | | |N |Y |Y |Y |Y |Y |MJ | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

Spillage issues are reported on form NUOCA Log Example

Cleaning and re-stocking is also recorded on the form located on the back of the toilet doors.

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Well A

Storage

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Block A

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