U.5 Flow Charts for analysing test results

Second set of tests

This flow chart lists the steps to follow in the second set of tests for Salmonella.

If there is a positive result for Salmonella testing, find out if the number of positive test results exceeded the maximum number of positives per set ("c" value)?

If the result is no, that is to say the number of positive results is equal or less than "c", then it is the end of current year testing for Salmonella for this class of product.

However, note that if other classes are included in the year's testing plan, testing for the other class(es) continues independently.

If the result is yes:

• the establishment must:
  • immediately notify the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge
  • investigate possible causes and provide action plan to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge within 5 working days
  • This includes:
    • systematic review of all Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point plans for the product(s) within the category sampled for Salmonella
    • initiation of corrective actions indicated as a result of this review
• the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge:
  • forwards action plan to the Area Program Network Director with comments

If there are additional positive test results for Salmonella:

• the establishment must:
  • immediately notify the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge
  • review the action plan and implement corrective actions

Conclusion of the second set of tests if the total number of valid test results equals the "n" value

If the number of positive test results is greater than "c" a third set of tests is required. In this case:

• the establishment must:
  • provide copies of all action plans plus a summary of test results to the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge (within 5 working days of end of set of tests).
• the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge:
  • attaches comments and forward them to the Program Network Director.
• the Program Network Director:
  • reviews the file and instructs the Veterinarian/Inspector in Charge on when a second set of tests should begin (immediately or after execution of company's action plan)

NOTE: Because changes are normally required to the establishment's Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point system when Performance Standards for Salmonella are twice exceeded, unless the Program Network Director assesses that the situation demands immediate retesting, the establishment is provided with time to make the changes and to undergo a Food Safety Enhancement Program-Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point audit of the modifications to the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point system.