Several times per year, swab samples from the skin of thawed and rinsed fish are screened for total aerobic plate count and Listeria species. If a Listeria test is ever positive, then species identification will be conducted. Finished products are also screened for total plate count. Numerous tests for the presence of Listeria in the finished product conducted prior to 1996 have all been negative. Employee toilet facilities are located off the lunch room.
Appropriate signage warns employees to wash hands before returning to work.
Brand company policy is that all employees will wash and sanitize their hands with company-approved antiseptic hand cleaner. In addition, disposable gloves are required. Supervisors are instructed to enforce these policies. Supervisors are instructed to enforce hand washing policies, but more important, employees are taught the importance of sanitation to their job. All records related to hand washing and toilet facilities are kept on file for 2 years.