how to conduct environmental sampling
DESCRIPTION
In food safety, the cleanliness of the environment that food is prepared in is every bit as important as the cleanliness of the food itself. Regular testing of your food preparation and storage areas is essential to keeping foodborne pathogens and contaminants to a minimum. Video demonstrations of environmental sampling: English http://youtu.be/tXXkSHbL8DE Spanish http://youtu.be/6Gjh8IqeFMcTRANSCRIPT
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
• Order the appropriate sampling supplies from ABC Research Laboratories
• Clearly identify and label the swabs / sponges and sample submission form
• Learn aseptic sampling techniques before you begin to collect samples to prevent cross contamination
• Return samples via overnight shipping with frozen ice packs
Step by Step Guide:
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
ORDERING THE PROPER SUPPLIES
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
SPONGES OR SWABS
SWABS are best for small crevices or uneven surfaces, Example: drains and grates
SPONGES are best for smooth and flat surfaces, Example: floors, walls, doors
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
HOW TO IDENTIFY & LABEL SAMPLES
Before you begin to take the samples:
•Using a Sharpie or permanent marker, clearly label the sample bags / containers
•Use brief descriptions that clearly identify the sampling area or site
•Record the same descriptions on the sample submission form
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
ASEPTIC SAMPLING TECHNIQUES• Wash hands to mid-arms
with antibacterial soap before sampling
• Use clean laboratory gloves or the aseptic gloves provided
• Put the gloves on aseptically and avoid touching the finger portions of the gloves when putting them on
• GOAL: Avoid cross-contamination
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
• With bag still sealed, push the sponge towards the opening of the bag
• Open the bag without touching the sponge or inside of the bag
• With the sterile gloves on, remove the sponge from the bag careful to only touch the sides of the spongeGently wipe the sponge in a 10”x10” target area – wipe 10 times vertically and 10 times horizontally• Place the sponge back in the bag, expel excess air, and fold the top 3-4 times to seal
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
SWABS• Use clean laboratory
gloves or the aseptic gloves provided
• With the sterile gloves on, unscrew the cap of the swab container careful to only touch the lid and not the swabGently wipe the swab over a 2”x2” target
area – wipe vertically and horizontally
• Place the swab back into the tube and screw closed
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
PREPARING THE SHIPMENT• Securely seal the
sponge bag and swab container
• Place the swabs and sponges in ziploc bags for added protection
• Individual bags are best. If one leaks it will not cross contaminate the other samples
• GOAL: Avoid cross-contamination
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
PACK AND SHIP VIA OVERNIGHT
• Place completed sample submission form in a Ziploc bag to protect from spills
• Include plenty of frozen ice packs to maintain the proper temperature
• Package sponges, swabs, and frozen ice packs in an insulated cooler
• Ship via overnight delivery
ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
We are here to help!To order environmental supplies, set up an ABC-R account, or just ask a question, we are always eager to provide answers. We
look forward to hearing from you!
352.372.0436866.233.5883
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