Appendix 6 - Recommended procedure for testing Non-Food Contact Surfaces for Listeria species

This flow chart lists the steps to be followed when non food contact surfaces are tested for Listeria species.

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is negative for Listeria species (Test 1), the normal sampling schedule for Non-Food Contact Surface is followed.

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is positive for Listeria species (Test 1), the operator takes corrective actions including intensive sanitation and cleaning. The same Non-Food Contact Surface is tested for Listeria species within a maximum of 5 working days (Test 2).

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is negative for Listeria species (Test 2), the normal sampling schedule for Non-Food Contact Surface may continue.

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is positive for Listeria species (Test 2), the operator takes repeated corrective actions including intensive sanitation and cleaning. The same and/or the adjoining Non-Food Contact Surface is tested for Listeria species within a maximum of 5 working days (Test 3).

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is negative for Listeria (Test 3), the normal sampling schedule for Non-Food Contact Surface may continue.

If the Non-Food Contact Surface is positive for Listeria species (Test 3), the operator takes repeated corrective actions including intensive sanitation and cleaning. The same Non-Food Contact Surface and the adjoining Food Contact Surface is tested for Listeria species (according to Appendix 2 or 3) within a maximum of 5 working days. This follow up testing continues until the same Non-Food Contact Surface and the adjoining Non-Food Contact Surface test negative.