Maintaining cleanliness in a food manufacturing facility isn’t just a best practice—it’s an absolute necessity. With strict industry regulations and the ever-present risk of contamination, industrial cleaning in such environments must be meticulous, consistent, and expertly managed.
From ensuring food safety to extending equipment life, a proper cleaning regime plays a critical role in a facility’s success. Here are some practical and effective tips to keep your food manufacturing facility spotless and why industrial cleaning services in Brisbane is necessary:
01. Develop a Detailed Cleaning Schedule
A structured cleaning schedule is essential for maintaining hygiene standards. Assign tasks by frequency—daily, weekly, monthly—and identify high-risk zones such as food contact surfaces, processing equipment, and packaging areas. A documented routine ensures consistency and accountability across teams.
Pro Tip: Use colour-coded charts and checklists to streamline communication and prevent cross-contamination.
02. Choose Food-Safe Cleaning Products
Using the right cleaning chemicals is non-negotiable in a food manufacturing facility. Always opt for food-grade, non-toxic, and biodegradable products that are approved by relevant food safety authorities. Avoid harsh chemicals that might leave harmful residues or damage machinery.
Bonus: Always rinse thoroughly to ensure no residues are left behind, especially on surfaces that come into direct contact with food.
03. Train Staff on Cleaning Protocols
Employees must be thoroughly trained in cleaning procedures, especially those that involve food safety. Training should cover personal hygiene, safe handling of cleaning chemicals, proper Sanitation techniques, and emergency spill responses.
Why it matters: Well-trained staff reduce the risk of errors that could lead to contamination or regulatory penalties.
04. Use the Right Cleaning Equipment
Invest in specialised cleaning tools such as high-pressure washers, foamers, and scrubbers that can reach hard-to-clean spaces. Stainless steel equipment is ideal due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Tip: Schedule routine maintenance from industrial cleaning services in Brisbane to ensure consistent performance and avoid breakdowns.
05. Focus on High-Touch and High-Risk Areas
Food manufacturing facilities have critical control points that must be cleaned more frequently. These include conveyor belts, cutting tools, filling stations, and handwashing areas. These zones are prone to bacteria build-up and require frequent sanitisation.
Insight: Use ATP testing swabs or microbial testing to verify the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts in these areas.
06. Implement a ‘Clean as You Go’ Policy
Encourage employees to clean spills, crumbs, and debris as they occur. A proactive approach reduces the build-up of contaminants and helps maintain a clean environment throughout the production cycle.
Reminder: Provide easy access to cleaning supplies like disposable wipes, mops, and bins to support this policy.
07. Document Everything
From cleaning schedules to chemical usage logs, documentation is key in food manufacturing. In the event of an inspection or incident, thorough records serve as proof of compliance and due diligence.
Recommendation: Use digital tools and cloud-based software to manage and track your cleaning records efficiently.
Cleanliness is the backbone of any food manufacturing operation. Investing in a structured cleaning program not only protects consumers but also strengthens brand credibility and trust. Thus, hire a reputed industrial cleaner in Brisbane. Contact Life Australia Cleaning & Facility Management today to schedule our visit. 07 3357 5946 to get started.
