Episode 16: Mastering Health and Safety Inspections
Episode 16: Mastering Health and Safety Inspections
Hey District Managers! Mike Hernandez back with you on "Smoke Break." Today, we're talking about something that can make your palms sweat - health and safety inspections. But don't worry, by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly how to handle them like a pro.
First, let's change our mindset about inspections. They're not the enemy - they're opportunities to validate what you're doing right and catch what you might have missed. The best managers welcome inspections because they know their stores are ready any time.
You know what separates great managers from good ones? Great managers inspect their own stores more thoroughly than any inspector would. They don't wait for official visits to find problems - they actively look for them every day.
Here's what inspectors typically focus on first: food temperature logs, employee hygiene practices, and cleanliness. But they're not just checking boxes. They're looking at your systems and processes. Do you have clear procedures? Are your employees following them consistently?
Speaking of employees, they need to know what to do when an inspector arrives. Train them to be confident and honest. Nothing raises red flags faster than an employee who seems nervous or evasive. Your team should be proud to show how they maintain safety standards.
Documentation is crucial during inspections. Inspectors want to see your logs, training records, and maintenance schedules. Keep these organized and easily accessible. If an inspector has to wait while you dig through files, that's already a strike against you.
Let's talk about common violations. Hot food not hot enough, cold food not cold enough - these are basics that often trip up stores. Create simple systems to check temperatures regularly throughout the day. Make it part of your team's routine, not an extra task.
Here's something many managers miss - the importance of maintaining equipment. A broken cooler seal or a malfunctioning thermometer isn't just an equipment issue - it's a potential violation. Regular maintenance checks can prevent these problems.
Now, about those surprise visits - they're only surprising if you're not ready every day. Treat every day like inspection day. When you operate at that level consistently, surprise inspections become just another day at work.
Let's pause for a comprehension check: What are three key elements of inspection readiness that we've discussed today?
For your action item this week: Conduct a mock inspection of your busiest store. Use an actual inspection checklist from your health department. Be as thorough and critical as a real inspector would be. Then, create an action plan to address any issues you find.
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Next time, we'll explore how to build strong relationships with your health inspectors - because yes, that's actually a thing you can and should do.
Remember - inspections aren't about passing or failing. They're about maintaining high standards every day to protect your customers and your business. Keep those standards high, and I'll see you next time on "Smoke Break"!
