Insights into Health Department Inspections

Health department inspectors look for a variety of things when inspecting a new restaurant. Some of the main things they look for include:

Food handling and storage:

Inspectors will check to make sure that food is being handled, stored, and prepared in a safe and sanitary manner. This includes making sure that food is being stored at the correct temperatures, that food is being handled with clean utensils and equipment, and that food is being protected from contamination.

Sanitation:

Inspectors will check to ensure that the restaurant is clean and that proper sanitation practices are being followed. This includes checking that all surfaces, equipment and utensils are clean and free of food residue, checking that adequate hand washing facilities are available, ensuring that all bathrooms are clean and stocked and the condition of the filters in the hoods.

Personal hygiene:

Inspectors will check to ensure that all restaurant employees are following proper personal hygiene practices. This includes ensuring that employees are wearing clean uniforms, that they are washing their hands frequently, and that they are not working while ill.

Pest control:

Inspectors will check to ensure that the restaurant has an effective pest control program in place. This includes checking for signs of pests, such as droppings or gnawed food, and checking that all entry points, such as doors and windows, are properly sealed to prevent pests from entering the restaurant.

Allergen Management:

Inspectors will check that the restaurant has procedures in place to manage allergens, such as proper labeling and storage of allergen-containing ingredients, and that all employees are trained in allergen management.

Equipment:

Inspectors will check that all equipment is in good working condition and that it is being used and maintained properly. This includes checking that all refrigeration units are working properly and that food is being stored at the correct temperatures, checking that all cooking equipment is in good condition, and checking that all food service equipment is being used and maintained properly. The condition of the stainless steel tables used in the kitchen, the cleanliness of the steel shelves and racks, etc. will be checked.

Emergency procedures:

Inspectors will check that the restaurant has emergency procedures in place, such as a fire evacuation plan, and that all employees are trained in emergency procedures.

Record keeping:

Inspectors will check that the restaurant is keeping accurate records of all food purchases, storage, and preparation, as well as employee health records and pest control records.

Bottom Line 

In conclusion, health department inspectors look for a wide range of things when inspecting a new restaurant, including food handling and storage, sanitation, personal hygiene, pest control, allergen management, equipment, emergency procedures and record keeping. Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure the health and safety of customers, and the success of the restaurant.