How to Do a Safety Inspection for a Convenience Store

Convenience stores are popular and usually, as their name suggests, convenient. Most are small and sell basic items such as milk and bread as well as sweets, snacks and magazines. Some operate independently, but more and more are attached to gas stations and food outlets. A primary concern for convenience stores is the health and safety of the store for employees and customers and the hygiene of the food items on sale.

• 1

  Check the general cleanliness of the store. Areas where food is stored should be free of dirt, dust and debris. This can be checked by removing items from the shelves and wiping with a cloth.

• 2

  Check the food storage temperature. Food kept in coolers should be kept below a certain temperature. Federal guidelines specify that chilled food should be kept below 41 degrees, and freezer temperatures should be below 0 degrees. These can be confirmed by using a thermometer. Shelving should be open for refrigerated items and food should not be covered in foil, because this can have an insulating affect.

• 3

  Monitor the food handling of the staff. Staff should have their hair tied back, and if they are handling liquids, they should wear plastic gloves and change them as they handle different products. Surfaces should be cleaned regularly with antibacterial spray.

• 4

  Read the "use by" dates on the products. Nothing should be on the shelf later than this date.

• 5

  Confirm fire emergency procedures with the staff. Make sure exits are easy to access and kept clear. Check that fire extinguishers are in working order and that staff know how to use them.

• 6

  Ensure that staff is aware of emergency contact numbers for local services and that a first-aid kit is on hand for basic injuries.