The materials included in this packet are intended to assist the
dairy producer in meeting inspection requirements for Grade A
dairies. Our goal is to obtain voluntary compliance in a manner that
is mutually beneficial to the industry and the consumer.
As the holder of a Grade A license, you have accepted certain
responsibilities in order to sell a Grade A product. The enclosed
information discusses the elements that are reviewed during
inspection and explains how you can meet the objectives of the
public health program.
The federal Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) sets up criteria for
inspections. The complete document is over 300 pages in length.
We have included the following:
A list of the most frequent violations from state inspections.
Section 7 - Requirements for Grade "A" Raw Milk for
Pasteurization.
Washington State's dairy inspection program operates under the
requirements of the Public Health Service/Food and Drug
Administration Pasteurized Milk Ordinance and state law 15.36
Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Compliance with the PMO is
essential for Washington's farm bulk tank units (BTU's) and plants
to maintain their listing on the Interstate Milk Shippers (IMS)
list. The standards applied in Washington State are national
standards, which allow your milk products to move without
restriction in interstate commerce.
Please keep in mind the following:
- Grade A requirements are in effect 365 days a year--not just
during formal state or federal inspections. Use the material
provided to make your own periodic inspection that can alert you to
problems and allow time for correction prior to the next state
inspection.
- The way you carry out your operation is important to those
consumers who are depending on you for a healthful, wholesome
product. We will continue to work with you in a cooperative way to
ensure the public interest is protected and your products have
unrestricted market access.
- If you have any questions, please contact the Food Safety Office
in your area for assistance or clarification. For additional
information, contact:
Washington State Department of Agriculture
Food Safety & Animal Health Division
P.O. Box 42560
Olympia, Washington 98504-2560
Sanitation requirements for
Grade A raw milk for pasteurization, ultra-pasteurization or aseptic
processing
Item 1r - Abnormal Milk
Cows, which show evidence of the secretion of abnormal milk in one
or more quarters, based upon bacteriological, chemical or physical
examination, shall be milked last or with separate equipment and the
milk shall be discarded. Cows treated with, or cows which have
consumed chemical, medicinal or radioactive agents which are capable
of being secreted in the milk and which, in the judgment of the
regulatory agency, may be deleterious to human health, shall be
milked last or with separate equipment and the milk disposed of as
the regulatory agency may direct.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
The health of the cow is a very important consideration because a
number of diseases of cattle, including salmonellosis,
staphylococcal infection and streptococcal infection, may be
transmitted to man through the medium of milk. The organisms of most
of these diseases may get into the milk either directly from the
udder or indirectly through infected body discharges which may drop,
splash or be blown into the milk.
Bovine mastitis is an inflammatory and, generally, highly
communicable disease of the bovine udder. Usually, the inciting
organism is a streptococcus of bovine origin (type B), but a
staphylococcus or other infectious agent often causes the disease.
Occasionally cow's udders become infected with hemolytic
streptococci of human origin, which may result in milk borne
epidemics of scarlet fever or septic sore throat. The toxins of
staphylococci, and possibly other organisms in milk, may cause
severe gastroenteritis. Some of these toxins are not destroyed by
pasteurization.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Milk from cows being treated with medicinal agents, which are
capable of being secreted in the milk, is not offered for sale for
such a period as is recommended by the attending veterinarian or as
indicated on the package label of the medicinal agent.
Milk from cows treated with or exposed to insecticides, not approved
for use on dairy cattle by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
is not offered for sale.
The regulatory agency requires such additional tests for the
detection of abnormal milk as they deem necessary.
Bloody, stringy, off-colored milk, or milk that is abnormal to sight
or odor, is so handled and disposed of as to preclude the infection
of other cows and the contamination of milk utensils.
Cows secreting abnormal milk are milked last or in separate
equipment, which effectively prevents the contamination of the
wholesome, supply.
Equipment, utensils and containers used for the handling of abnormal
milk are not used for the handling of milk to be offered for sale,
unless they are first cleaned and effectively sanitized.
Processed animal waste derivatives, used as a feed ingredient for
any portion of the total ration of the lactating dairy animal, have
been:
Properly processed in accordance with at least those
requirements contained in the Model Regulations for Processed
Animal Wastes developed by the Association of American Feed
Control Officials; and
Do not contain levels of deleterious substances, harmful
pathogenic organisms or other toxic substances, which are secreted
in the milk at any level, which may be deleterious to human
health.
Unprocessed poultry litter and unprocessed recycled animal body
discharges are not fed to lactating dairy animals.
Item 2r - Milking Barn, Stable or Parlor - Construction
A milking barn, stable or parlor shall be provided on all dairy
farms in which the milking herd shall be housed during milking time
operations. The areas used for milking purposes shall:
Have floors constructed of concrete or equally impervious materials.
Provided, convalescent (maternity) pens located in milking areas of
stanchion-type barns may be used when they comply with the
guidelines specified in Appendix B.V., P. 143;
Have walls and ceilings which are smooth, painted or finished in an
approved manner; in good repair, ceiling dust-tight;
Have separate stalls or pens for horses, calves and bulls, and not
be overcrowded;
Be provided with natural and/or artificial light, well distributed,
for day and/or night milking;
Provide sufficient air space and air circulation to prevent
condensation and excessive odors;
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
When milking is done elsewhere than in a suitable place provided for
this purpose, the milk may be contaminated. Floors constructed of
concrete or other impervious materials can be kept clean more easily
than floors constructed of wood, earth or similar materials and are;
therefore, more apt to be kept clean. Painted or properly finished
walls and ceilings encourage cleanliness. Tight ceilings reduce the
likelihood of dust and extraneous material getting into the milk.
Adequate light makes it more probable that the barn will be clean
and that the cows will be milked in a sanitary manner.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
A milking barn, stable or parlor is provided on all dairy farms.
Gutters, floors and feed troughs are constructed of good quality
concrete or equally impervious material. Floors shall be easily
cleaned (brushed surfaces permitted), be graded to drain, maintained
in good repair and free of excessive breaks or worn areas that may
create pools.
Gravity flow manure channels in milking barns, if used, shall be
constructed in accordance with the specifications of Appendix B. IV,
page p 139.
Stall barns, when used with gutter grates over manure storage pits,
are designed and constructed in accordance with the specifications
of Appendix B. VI, page144.
Walls and ceilings are finished with wood, tile, smooth-surfaced
concrete, cement plaster, brick or other equivalent materials with
light colored surfaces. Walls, partitions, doors, shelves, windows
and ceilings shall be kept in good repair, and surfaces shall be
refinished whenever wear or discoloration is evident.
Whenever feed is stored overhead, ceilings shall be constructed to
prevent the sifting of chaff and dust into the milking barn, stable
or parlor. If a hay opening is provided from a loft, which is open
into the milking portion of the barn, such openings shall be
provided with a dust-tight door which shall be kept closed during
milking operations.
Bull pens maternity and calf stalls and horse stalls are partitioned
from the milking portion of the barn. Such portions of the barn that
are not separated by tight partitions shall comply with all the
requirements of this item.
Overcrowding is not evidenced by the presence of calves, cows or
other barnyard animals in walks or feed alleys. Inadequate
ventilation and excessive odors may also be evidence of an
overcrowded barn.
The milking barn is provided with natural and/or artificial light to
insure that all surfaces and particularly the working areas will be
plainly visible. The equivalent of at least 10 foot-candles of light
in all working areas shall be provided.
Air circulation is sufficient to minimize odors and to prevent
condensation upon walls and ceilings.
A dust-tight partition, provided with doors that are kept closed
except when in actual use, shall separate the milking portion of the
barn from any feed room or silo in which feed is ground or mixed, or
in which sweet feed is stored.
When conditions warrant, the regulatory agency may approve a barn
without four walls extending from floor to roof, or a shed-type barn
provided the requirement of Item 3r., prohibiting animals and fowl
from entering the barn is satisfied. Cattle-housing areas (stables
without stanchions, such as loose housing stables, pen stables,
resting barns, free stall barns, holding barns, loafing sheds,
wandering sheds) may be of shed-type construction, provided no
milking is conducted therein. (They are classified as part of the
cowyard under Item 4r.)
Item 3r - Milking Barn, Stable or Parlor -
Cleanliness
The interior shall be kept clean. Floors, walls, ceilings, windows,
pipelines and equipment shall be free of filth and/or litter and
shall be clean. Swine and fowl shall be kept out of the milking
area.
Feed shall be stored in a manner that will not increase the dust
content of the air or interfere with the cleaning of the floor.
Surcingles, milk stools and antikickers shall be kept clean and
stored above the floor.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
A clean interior reduces the chances of contamination of the milk or
milk pails during milking. The presence of other animals increases
uncleanness and the potential for the spread of disease.
Clean milk stools and surcingles (or belly straps) reduce the
likelihood of contamination of milker's hands between the milking of
one cow and the milking of another.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
The interior of the milking barn, stable or parlor is kept clean.
Leftover feed in feed mangers appears fresh and is not wet or soggy.
The bedding material, if used, does not contain more manure than has
accumulated since the previous milking.
Outside surfaces of pipeline systems located in the milking barn,
stable or parlors are reasonably clean.
Gutter cleaners are reasonably clean.
All pens, calf stalls and bullpens, if not separated from the
milking barn, stable or parlor, are clean.
Swine and fowl are kept out of the milking area.
Milk stools are not padded and are constructed to be easily cleaned.
Milk stools, surcingles and antikickers are kept clean and are
stored above the floor in a clean place in the milking barn, stable
parlor or milkhouse, when not in use.
Gravity flow manure channels in milking barns, if used, shall be
maintained in accordance with Appendix B. IV, page 139.
Stall barns, when used with gutter grates over manure storage pits,
are operated and maintained in accordance with the specifications of
Appendix B. VI, page 144.
The method of cleaning is immaterial. Dairymen whose barns are
provided with water under pressure should scrub the floors after
each milking with a stiff-bristled brush. In barns in which water
under pressure is not available, the floors may be brushed dry and
limed. In the latter event, care should be exercised to prevent
caking of the lime. When lime or phosphate is used, it shall be
spread evenly on the floor as a thin coating. If clean floors are
not maintained by this method, the sanitarian should require
cleaning with water.
The cowyard shall be graded and drained and shall have no standing
pools of water or accumulations of organic wastes. Provided, that in
loafing or cattle-housing areas, cow droppings and soiled bedding
shall be removed, or clean bedding added, at sufficiently frequent
intervals to prevent the soiling of the cow's udder and flanks.
Waste feed shall not be allowed to accumulate. Manure packs shall be
properly drained and shall provide a reasonably firm footing. Swine
shall be kept out of the cowyard.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
The cowyard is interpreted to be that enclosed or unenclosed area,
in which the cows are apt to congregate, approximately adjacent to
the barn, including cattle-housing areas. This area is; therefore,
particularly apt to become filthy with manure droppings, which may
result in the soiling of the cow's udders and flanks. The grading
and drainage of the cowyard, as far as are practicable, are required
because wet conditions are conducive to fly breeding and make it
difficult to keep manure removed and the cows clean. If manure and
barn sweepings are allowed to accumulate in the cowyard, fly
breeding will be promoted, and the cows, because of their habit of
lying down, will be more apt to have manure-soiled udders. Cows
should not have access to piles of manure, in order to avoid the
soiling of udders and the spread of diseases among cattle.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
The cowyard, which is the en-closed or unenclosed area adjacent to
the milking barn in which the cows may congregate, including
cattle-housing areas and feed lots, is graded and drained,
depressions and soggy areas are filled, and cow lanes are reasonably
dry.
Approaches to the barn door and the surroundings of stock watering
and feed stations are solid to the footing of the animals.
Wastes from the barn or milkhouse are not allowed to pool in the
cowyard. Cowyards, which are muddy due to recent rains, should not
be considered as violating this item.
Manure, soiled bedding and waste feed are not stored or permitted to
accumulate therein in such a manner as to permit the soiling of
cow's udders and flanks. Cattle-housing areas (stables without
stanchions, such as loose-housing stables, pen stables, resting
barns, holding barns, loafing sheds, wandering sheds, free-stall
housing) shall be considered as part of the cowyard. Manure packs
shall be solid to the footing of the animals (See Appendix B, P.
131).
Cowyards are kept reasonably free of cattle droppings. Cattle
droppings shall not be allowed to accumulate in piles that are
accessible to the animals.
Item 5r - Milkhouse or Room - Construction and
Facilities
A milkhouse or room of sufficient size shall be provided, in which
the cooling, handling and storing of milk and the washing,
sanitizing and storing of milk containers and utensils shall be
conducted. Except as provided for in Item 12r. of this section.
The milkhouse shall be provided with a smooth floor constructed of
concrete or equally impervious material, graded to drain and
maintained in good repair. Liquid waste shall be disposed of in a
sanitary manner. Floor drains shall be accessible and shall be
trapped if connected to a sanitary sewer system.
The walls and ceilings shall be constructed of smooth material, be
in good repair and be well painted, or finished in an equally
suitable manner.
The milkhouse shall have adequate natural and/or artificial light
and be well ventilated.
The milkhouse shall be used for no other purpose than milkhouse
operations. There shall be no direct opening into any barn, stable
or into a room used for domestic purposes. Provided, that a direct
opening between the milkhouse and milking barn, stable or parlor is
permitted when a tight-fitting, self-closing, solid door(s) hinged
to be single or double acting is provided. Screened vents in the
wall between the milkhouse and a breezeway, which separates the
milkhouse from the milking parlor, are permitted, provided animals
are not housed within the milking facility.
Water under pressure shall be piped into the milkhouse.
The milkhouse shall be equipped with a two-compartment wash vat and
adequate hot water heating facilities.
When a transportation tank is used for the cooling and/or storage of
milk on the dairy farm, such tank shall be provided with a suitable
shelter for the receipt of milk. Such shelter shall be adjacent to,
but not a part of, the milk room and shall comply with the
requirements of the milk room with respect to construction, light,
drainage, insect and rodent control and general maintenance.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Unless a suitable, separate place is provided for the cooling,
handling and storing of milk and for the washing, sanitizing and
storage of milk utensils, the milk or the utensils may become
contaminated. Construction, which permits easy cleaning, promotes
cleanliness. A well-drained floor of concrete or other impervious
material promotes cleanliness. Ample light promotes cleanliness, and
proper ventilation reduces the likelihood of odors and condensation.
A well equipped milkhouse which is separated from the barn and the
living quarters provides a safeguard against the exposure of milk
and milk utensils to infection from persons, other than regular milk
handlers, and from insects and dust.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
A separate milkhouse of sufficient size is provided for the cooling,
handling and storing of milk and the washing. Sanitizing and storing
of milk containers and utensils. Except as provided for in Item 12r.
of this section.
The floors of all milk houses are constructed of good quality
concrete (float finish permissible), or equally impervious tile, or
brick laid closely with impervious material, or metal surfacing with
impervious joints or other material the equivalent of concrete and
maintained free of breaks, depressions and surface peelings.
The floor slopes to drain so that there are no pools of standing
water. The joints between the floor and the walls shall be
watertight.
The liquid wastes are disposed of in a sanitary manner. All floor
drains are accessible and are trapped if connected to a sanitary
sewer.
Walls and ceilings are constructed of smooth dressed lumber or
similar material; well painted with a light-colored washable paints;
and is in good repair. Surfaces and joints shall be tight and
smooth. Sheet metal, tile, cement block, brick, concrete, cement
plaster or similar materials of light color may be used and the
surfaces and joints shall be smooth.
A minimum of 20 foot-candles of light is provided at all working
areas from natural and/or artificial light for milkhouse operations.
Windows and solid doors are closed during dusty weather.
The milkhouse is adequately ventilated to minimize odors and
condensation on floors, walls, ceilings and clean utensils.
Vents if installed, and lighting fixtures are installed in a manner
to preclude the contamination of bulk milk tanks or clean utensil
storage areas.
The milkhouse is used for no other purpose than milkhouse
operations.
There is no direct opening into any barn, stable or room used for
domestic purposes. Except that an opening between the milkhouse and
milking barn, stable or parlor is permitted when a tight-fitting,
self-closing, solid door(s) hinged to be single or double acting is
provided. Except that screened vents are permitted in the wall
between the milkhouse and a breezeway, which separates the milkhouse
from the milking parlor, provided animals are not housed within the
milking facility.
A vestibule, if used, complies with the applicable milkhouse
construction requirements.
The transfer of milk from a bulk-holding/cooling tank to a transport
tank is through a hose port located in the milkhouse wall. The port
shall be fitted with a tight door, which shall be in good repair. It
shall be kept closed except when the port is in use. An easily
cleanable surface shall be constructed under the hose port, adjacent
to the outside wall and sufficiently large to protect the milk hose
from contamination.
Water under pressure is piped into the milkhouse.
Each milkhouse is provided with facilities for heating water in
sufficient quantity and to such temperatures for the effective
cleaning of all equipment and utensils (See Appendix B, P.131).
The milkhouse is equipped with a wash-and-rinse vat having at least
two compartments. Each compartment must be of sufficient size to
accommodate the largest utensil or container used. The
cleaning-in-place vat for milk pipelines and milk machines may be
accepted as one part of the two-compartment vat. Provided, that the
clearing-in-place station rack, in or on the vat, and the milking
machines inflation's and appurtenances are completely removed from
the vat during the washing, rinsing and/or sanitizing of other
utensils and equipment. Where mechanical cleaning/CIP systems
eliminate the need for hand washing of equipment, the presence of
the second wash vat compartment may be optional, if so determined by
the State Regulatory Agency, on an individual farm basis.
A suitable shelter is provided for a transportation truck used for
cooling and storing milk. Such shelter shall be adjacent to, but not
a part of, the milk room and shall comply with the requirements of
the milk room with respect to construction, light, drainage, insect
and rodent control and general maintenance. See Appendix B, page
131. For suggested plans and information on size, construction,
operation and maintenance of milk houses. When the regulatory agency
determines conditions exist whereby the milk tanker can be
adequately protected and sampled without contamination a shelter
need not be provided if the following minimum criteria are met:
The milk hose connection is accessible to, and made from within the
milk room. The milk hose connection to the milk tank is completely
protected from the outside environment at all times.
To assure continued protection of the milk, the milk tank truck
manhole must be sealed after the truck has been cleaned and
sanitized.
The milk tank truck shall be washed and sanitized at the dairy plant
receiving the milk or at a wash station acceptable to the regulatory
agency.
To prevent overflow from the milk tank truck, which would create
unsanitary conditions around the milk house, the milk tank truck
shall be equipped with a liquid level sensor device of sanitary
design. The sensor device shall deactivate the milk pump or sound an
alarm when activated.
An accurate accessible temperature-recording device shall be
installed in the milk line downstream from an effective cooling
device, which cools the milk to below 45 ° Fahrenheit. (40 °
Fahrenheit in Washington.)
The milk shall be sampled at the direction of the regulatory agency,
in a manner so as to preclude contaminating the tanker or sample, by
a permitted milk sample collector, or the equivalent. The milk in
the milk tank truck shall be effectively agitated in order to
collect a representative sample.
The tanker shall be parked on a self-draining concrete or equally
impervious surface during filling and storage.
The floors, walls, ceilings, windows, tables, shelves, cabinets,
wash vats, non-product contact surfaces of milk containers, utensils
and equipment and other milk room equipment shall be clean. Only
articles directly related to milk room activities shall be permitted
in the milk room. The milk room shall be free of trash, animals and
fowl.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Cleanliness in the milk room reduces the likelihood of contamination
of the milk.
ADMINISTRATION PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
The milk room structure, equipment and other milk room facilities
used in its operation or maintenance are clean at all times.
Incidental articles such as desks, refrigerators, and storage
cabinets may be in the milk room provided they are kept clean and
ample space is available to conduct the normal operations in the
milk room and will not cause contamination of the milk.
Every dairy farm shall be provided with one or more toilets,
conveniently located, properly constructed, operated and maintained
in a sanitary manner. The waste shall be inaccessible to flies and
shall not pollute the soil surface or contaminate any water supply.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
The organisms of typhoid fever, dysentery and gastrointestinal
disorders may be present in the body wastes of persons who have
these diseases. In the case of typhoid fever, well persons
(carriers) also may discharge the organisms in their body wastes. If
a toilet is not fly-tight and so constructed as to prevent overflow,
infection may be carried from the excreta to the milk, and either by
flies or through the pollution of ground water supplies or streams
to which the cows have access.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
There is at least one flush toilet connected to a public sewer
system or to an individual sewage-disposal system or a chemical
toilet, earth pit privy or other type of privy. Such sewage systems
shall be constructed and operated in accordance with plans and
instructions of the State agency responsible and comply with the
standards outlined in Appendix C, page 149.
A toilet or privy is convenient to the milking barn and the milk
room. There shall be no evidence of human defecation or urination
about the premises.
No privy opens directly into the milk room.
The toilet room, including all fixtures and facilities, is kept
clean and free of flies and odors.
Where flush toilets are used, doors to toilet rooms are tight and
self-closing. All outer openings in toilet rooms shall be screened
or otherwise protected against the entrance of flies.
Water for milkhouse and milking operations shall be from a supply
properly located, protected and operated and shall be easily
accessible, adequate and of a safe, sanitary quality.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
A dairy farm water supply should be accessible in order to encourage
its use in ample quantity in cleaning operations; it should be
adequate so that cleaning and rinsing will be thorough; and it
should be of a safe, sanitary quality in order to avoid
contamination of milk utensils.
A polluted water supply, used in the rinsing of the dairy utensils
and containers, may be more dangerous than a similar water supply,
which is used for drinking purposes only. Bacteria grow much faster
in milk than in water and the severity of an attack of a given
disease depends largely upon the size of the dose of disease
organisms taken into the system. Therefore, a small number of
disease organisms consumed in a glass of water from a polluted well
may possibly result in no harm; whereas, if left in a milk utensil,
which has been rinsed with the water, they may after several hours
growth, in the milk, increase in such numbers as to cause disease
when consumed.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
The water supply for milkhouse and milking operations is approved as
safe by the State water control authority and, in the case of
individual water systems, complies with the specifications outlined
in Appendix D, page 155, and the bacteriological standards outlined
in Appendix G, page 199.
No cross-connection exists between a safe water supply and any
unsafe or questionable water supply or any other source of
pollution.
There are no submerged inlets through which a safe water supply may
be contaminated.
The well or other source of water is located and constructed in such
a manner that neither under ground nor surface contamination from
any sewerage systems, privy or other source of pollution can reach
such water supply.
New individual water supplies and water supply systems which have
been repaired or otherwise become contaminated are thoroughly
disinfected before being placed in use (See Appendix D. P. 155). The
supply shall be made free of the disinfectant by pumping to waste
before any sample for bacteriological testing shall be collected.
All containers and tanks used in the transportation of water are
sealed and protected from possible contamination. These containers
and tanks shall be subjected to a thorough cleaning and a
bacteriological treatment prior to filling with potable water to be
used at the dairy farm. To minimize the possibility of contamination
of the water during its transfer from the potable tanks to the
elevated or groundwater storage at the dairy farm, a suitable pump,
hose and fittings shall be provided. When the pump, hose and
fittings are not being used, the outlets shall be capped and stored
in a suitable dust-proof enclosure so as to prevent their
contamination. The storage tank at the dairy farm shall be
constructed of impervious material, provided with a dust and
rainproof cover and also provided with an approved-type vent and
roof hatch. All new reservoirs or reservoirs which have been cleaned
shall be disinfected prior to placing them into service (See
Appendix D, P.155).
Samples for bacteriological examination are taken upon the initial
approval of the physical structure, based upon the requirements of
this Ordinance, when any repair or alteration of the water supply
system has been made and at least every 3 years. Provided, that
water supplies with buried well casing seals, installed prior to the
adoption of this section, shall be tested at intervals no greater
than 6 months apart. Whenever such samples indicate either the
presence of bacteria of the coliform group or whenever the well
casing, pump or seal need replacing or repair, the well casing and
seal shall be brought above the ground surface and shall comply with
all other applicable construction criteria of this section.
Provided, that when water is hauled to the dairy farm, such water
shall be sampled for bacteriological examination at the point of use
and submitted to a laboratory at least four times in separate months
during any consecutive six months. Bacteriological examinations
shall be conducted in a laboratory acceptable to the regulatory
agency. To determine if water samples have been taken at the
frequency established in this section, the interval shall include
the designated period plus the remaining days of the month in which
the sample is due.
Current records of water test results shall be retained on file with
the regulatory agency or as the regulatory agency directs.
All multi-use containers, equipment and utensils used in the
handling, storage or transportation of milk shall be made of smooth,
nonabsorbent, corrosion-resistant, nontoxic materials, and shall be
so constructed as to be easily cleaned. All containers, utensils and
equipment shall be in good repair. All milk pails used for hand
milking and stripping shall be seamless and of the hooded type.
Multiple-use woven material shall not be used for straining milk.
All single-service articles shall have been manufactured, packaged,
transported and handled in a sanitary manner and shall comply with
the applicable requirements of Item 11p of this section. Articles
intended for single-service use shall not be reused.
Farm holding/cooling tanks, welded sanitary piping and
transportation tanks shall comply with the applicable requirements
of Items 10p and 11p of this section.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Milk containers and other utensils without flush joints and seams,
without smooth, easily cleaned, and accessible surfaces, and not
made of durable, non-corrodible material, are apt to harbor
accumulations in which undesirable bacterial growth is supported.
Single-service articles, which have not been manufactured and
handled in a sanitary manner, may contaminate the milk.
Milk pails of small-mouth design, known as hooded milk pails,
decrease the possibility of hair, dust, chaff and other undesirable
foreign substances getting into the milk at the time of milking.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
All multi-use containers, equipment and utensils, which are exposed
to milk or milk products, or from which liquids may drip, drain or
be drawn into milk or milk products, are made of smooth impervious,
nonabsorbent, safe materials of the following types:
Stainless steel of the ANSI (American Iron and Steel Institute) 300
series; or
Equally corrosion-resistant, nontoxic metal; or
Heat-resistant glass; or
Plastic or rubber and rubber-like materials which are relatively
inert, resistant to scratching, scoring, decomposition, crazing,
chipping and distortion, under normal use conditions; are nontoxic,
fat resistant, relatively nonabsorbent, relatively insoluble, do not
release component chemicals or impart flavor or odor to the product;
and which maintain their original properties under repeated use
conditions.
Single-service articles have been manufactured, packaged,
transported and handled in a sanitary manner and comply with the
applicable requirements of Item 11p.
Articles intended for single-service use are not reused.
All containers, equipment and utensils are free of breaks and
corrosion.
All joints in such containers, equipment and utensils are smooth and
free from pits, cracks or inclusions.
Cleaned-in-place milk pipelines and return-solution lines are
self-draining. If gaskets are used, they shall be self-positioning
and of material meeting specifications described in 1. d. above, and
shall be of such design, finish and application as to form a smooth,
flush, interior surface. If gaskets are not used, all fittings shall
have self-positioning faces designed to form a smooth, flush,
interior surface. All interior surfaces of welded joints in
pipelines shall be smooth and free of pits, cracks and inclusions.
Detailed plans for cleaned-in-place pipeline systems are submitted
to the regulatory agency for written approval prior to installation.
No alteration or addition shall be made to any milk pipeline system
without prior written approval of the regulatory agency.
Strainers, if used, are of perforated metal design, or so
constructed as to utilize single-service strainer media.
Seamless hooded pails having an opening not exceeding one-third the
area of that of an open pail of the same size are used for hand
milking and hand stripping.
All milking machines, including heads, milk claws, milk tubing and
other milk-contact surfaces can be easily cleaned and inspected.
Pipelines milking equipment and appurtenances, which require a
screwdriver or special tool shall be considered easily accessible
for inspection, providing the necessary tools are available at the
milkhouse.
Milk cans have umbrella-type lids.
Farm holding/cooling tanks, welded sanitary piping and
transportation tanks comply with the applicable requirements of
Items 10p and 11p of this section
During filling, flexible plastic/rubber hoses may be used between
the fill valves of bottom fill bulk milk storage tanks, when needed
for functional purposes. Such hoses shall be drainable, be as short
as practical, have sanitary fittings, and be supported to maintain
uniform slope and alignment. The end fittings of such hoses shall be
permanently attached in such a manner that will assure a crevice
free joint between the hose and the fitting, which can be cleaned by
mechanical means. The hoses shall be included as part of a
mechanical cleaning system.
NOTE.--3-A Standards.--3-A Sanitary Standards for dairy equipment
are promulgated jointly by the Sanitary Standards Subcommittee of
the Dairy Industry Committee, the Committee on Sanitary Procedure of
the International Association of Milk, Food and Environmental
Sanitarians, Inc. and the Milk Safety Branch, Food and Drug
Administration, Public Health Service, Center for Food Safety and
Applied Nutrition, Department of Health and Human Services.
Equipment manufactured in conformity with 3-A Sanitary Standards
compiles with the sanitary design and construction standards of the
Ordinance.
The product-contact surfaces of all multi-use containers, equipment
and utensils used in the handling, storage or transportation of milk
shall be cleaned after each usage.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Milk cannot be kept clean or free of contamination if permitted to
come into contact with unclean containers, utensils or equipment.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
The product-contact surface of all multi-use containers, equipment
and utensils used in the handling, storage or transportation of milk
are cleaned after each usage.
There shall be a separate wash manifold for all cleaning-in-place
milk pipelines in all new or extensively remodeled facilities.
The product-contact surfaces of all multi-use containers, equipment
and utensils used in the handling, storage or transportation of milk
shall be sanitized before each usage.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Mere cleaning of containers, equipment and utensils does not insure
the removal or destruction of all disease organisms, which may have
been present. Even very small numbers remaining may grow to
dangerous proportions, since many kinds of disease bacteria grow
rapidly in milk. For this reason, all milk containers, equipment and
utensils must be treated with an effective sanitizer before each
usage.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
All product-contact surfaces of multi-use containers, utensils and
equipment used in the handling, storage or transportation of milk
are sanitized before each usage by one of the following methods, or
by any method which has been demonstrated to be equally effective:
Complete immersion in hot water at a temperature of at least 77° C
(170° F) for at least 5 minutes; or exposure to a flow of hot water
at a temperature of at least 77° C (l70° F), as determined by the
use of a suitable accurate thermometer (at the outlet), for at least
5 minutes.
Complete immersion for at least 1 minute, or exposed to a flow of at
least 1-minute. to a chemical sanitizer of acceptable strength. All
product-contact surfaces must be wetted by the sanitizing solution,
and piping so treated must be filled. Sanitizing sprays may be used.
Chemical solutions, once used, shall not be reused for sanitizing
but may be reused for other purposes.
(See Appendix F, P. 191, for further discussion of approved
sanitizing procedures).
All containers, utensils and equipment used in the handling, storage
or transportation of milk, unless stored in sanitizing solutions,
shall be stored to assure complete drainage and shall be protected
from contamination prior to use. Provided, that pipeline milking
equipment such as milker claws, inflations, weigh jars, meters, milk
hoses, milk receivers, tubular coolers, plate coolers and milk pumps
which are designed for mechanical cleaning and other equipment, as
accepted by FDA which meets these criteria, may be stored in the
milking barn or parlor, provided this equipment is designed,
installed and operated to protect the product and solution-contact
surfaces from contamination at all times.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Careless storage of milk utensils, which previously have been
properly treated, is apt to result in recontamination of such
utensils, thus rendering them unsafe.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
All milk containers, utensils and equipment, including milking
machine vacuum hoses, are stored in the milkhouse in a sanitizing
solution, or on racks, until used. Pipeline milking equipment such
as milker claws, inflations, weight jars, milk hoses, milk
receivers, tubular coolers, plate coolers and milk pumps which are
designed for mechanical cleaning and other equipment, as accepted by
FDA which meets these criteria, may be mechanically cleaned,
sanitized and stored in the milking barn or parlor, provided this
equipment is designed, installed and operated to protect the
product- and solution-contact surface from contamination at all
times. Some of the parameters to be considered in determining
protection are: proper location of equipment; proper drainage of
equipment; and adequate and properly located lighting and
ventilation. The milking barn or parlor must be used only for
milking. Concentrates may be fed in the barn during milking but the
barn shall not be used for the housing of cattle. When manual
cleaning of product-contact surfaces is necessary, the cleaning
shall be done in the milkhouse.
Means are provided to effect complete drainage of equipment when
such equipment cannot be stored to drain freely.
Clean cans or other containers are stored in the milkhouse within a
reasonable time after delivery to the dairy farm.
Strainer pads, parchment papers, gaskets and similar single-service
articles are stored in a suitable container or cabinet and protected
against contamination and in a location convenient to their use.
Milking shall he done in the milking barn, stable or parlor. The
flanks, udders, bellies and tails of all milking cows shall be free
from visible dirt. All brushing shall be completed prior to milking.
The udders and teats of all milking cows shall be clean and dry
before milking. Teats shall be treated with a sanitizing solution
just prior to the time of milking and shall be dry before milking.
Wet hand milking is prohibited.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
If milking is done elsewhere other than in a suitable place provided
for this purpose, the milk may become contaminated. Cleanliness of
the cows is one of the most important factors affecting the
bacterial count of the milk. Under usual farm conditions, cows
contaminate their udders by standing in polluted water or by lying
down in the pasture or cowyard. Unless the udders and teats are
clean and dry before milking, particles of filth or contaminated
water are apt to drop or be drawn into the milk. Such contamination
of the milk is particularly dangerous because cow manure may contain
the organisms of brucellosis and tuberculosis, and polluted water
may contain the organisms of typhoid fever and other intestinal
diseases. Application of sanitizing solutions to the teats followed
by thorough drying just prior to the time of milking has the
advantage of giving an additional margin of safety with reference to
such disease organisms as are not removed by ordinary cleaning and
it is helpful in the control of mastitis.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Milking is done in a milking barn, stable or parlor.
Brushing is completed prior to milking.
Flanks, bellies, tails and udders are clipped as often as necessary
to facilitate cleaning of these areas and are free from dirt. The
hair on the udders shall be of such length that it is not
incorporated with the teat in the inflation during milking.
Udders and teats of all milking cows are clean and dry before
milking. Teats shall be cleaned, treated with a sanitizing solution
and dry just prior to milking, except that additional alternative
udder preparation methods may also be used once they have been
evaluated by FDA and found acceptable.
Milking and milkhouse operations, equipment and facilities shall be
located and conducted to prevent any contamination of milk,
equipment, containers and utensils. No milk shall be strained,
poured, transferred or stored unless it is properly protected from
contamination.
After sanitization, all containers, utensils and equipment shall be
handled in such a manner as to prevent contamination of any
product-contact surface.
Vehicles used to transport milk from the dairy farm to the milk
plant receiving station or transfer station shall be constructed and
operated to protect their contents from sun, freezing and
contamination. Such vehicles shall be kept clean, inside and out,
and no substance capable of contaminating the milk shall be
transported with the milk.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Because of the nature of milk and its susceptibility to
contamination by disease producing bacteria and other contaminants,
every effort should be made to provide adequate protection for the
milk at all times. This should include the proper placement of
equipment so that work areas in the milking barn and milkhouse are
not overcrowded. The quality of any air, which is used for the
agitation or movement of milk or is directed at a milk
product-contact surface, should be such that it will not contaminate
the milk. The effect of sanitization of equipment can be nullified
if the equipment is not protected after sanitizing.
To protect milk during transportation, delivery vehicles must be
properly constructed and operated.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Equipment and operations are so located within the milking barn and
milkhouse as to prevent overcrowding and contamination of cleaned
and sanitized containers, equipment and utensils by splash,
condensation or manual contact.
During processing, pipelines and equipment, used to contain or
conduct milk and milk products, shall be effectively separated from
tanks or circuits containing cleaning and/or sanitizing solutions.
All milk, which has overflowed, leaked, been spilled or improperly
handled, is discarded.
All product-contact surfaces of containers, equipment and utensils
are covered or otherwise protected to prevent the access of insects,
dust condensation and other contamination. All openings, including
valves and piping attached to milk storage and transport tanks,
pumps or vats, shall be capped or otherwise properly protected.
Gravity type strainers used in the milkhouse do not have to be
covered. Milk pipelines used to convey milk from pre-coolers to the
farm bulk tank must be fitted with effective drip deflectors.
The receiving receptacle is raised above the floor (as on a dolly or
cart), or placed at a distance from the cows, to protect it against
manure and splash when milk is poured and/or strained in the
milking. Such receptacle shall have a tight-fitting cover, which
shall be closed except when milk is being poured.
Each pail or container of milk is transferred immediately from the
milking barn, stable or parlor to the milkhouse.
Pails, cans and other equipment containing milk are properly covered
during transfer and storage.
Whenever air under pressure is used for the agitation or movement of
milk, or is directed at a milk-contact surface, it is free of oil,
dust, rust, excessive moisture, extraneous materials and odor, and
shall otherwise comply with the applicable standards of Appendix H,
page 203.
Sanitized product-contact surfaces, including farm cooling holding
tank openings and outlets, are protected against contact with
unsanitized equipment and utensils, hands, clothing, splash,
condensation and other sources of contamination.
Any sanitized product-contact surface, which has been otherwise
exposed to contamination, is again cleaned and sanitized before
being used.
Vehicles used to transport milk from the dairy farm to the milk
plant, receiving station or transfer station are constructed and
operated to protect their contents from sun, freezing and
contamination.
Vehicles have bodies with solid enclosures and tight, solid doors.
Vehicles are kept clean, inside and out.
No substance capable of contaminating milk is transported with the
milk.
Note:--See items 10p and 11p for information on the construction of
bulk milk pickup tankers.
Cleaners and sanitizers shall be stored in properly identified,
dedicated end use containers.
Animal drugs and medications and animal drug and medication
administration equipment shall be stored in such a way that milk,
milking equipment, wash vats and hand sinks are not subject to
contamination.
Animal drugs and medications shall be properly labeled and
segregated (lactating from non-lactating).
Unapproved drugs shall not be used.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Accidental misuse of cleaners or sanitizers can result in
adulteration of the milk.
Animal drug or medications can result in adverse reactions in people
sensitive to those residues and can contribute to the development of
strains of drug resistant human pathogens.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Cleaners and sanitizers, used on dairy farms, shall be purchased in
containers from the manufacturer or distributor which properly
identify the contents or, if bulk cleaners and sanitizers are
transferred from the manufacturer's or distributor's container, that
the transfer only occur into a dedicated end-use container which is
specifically designed and maintained according to the manufacturer's
specifications for that specific product. The label on the dedicated
end-use container shall include the product name, chemical
description, use directions, precautionary and warning statement,
first aid instructions, container storage and maintenance
instructions and the name and address of the manufacturer or
distributor.
Equipment used to administer medicinals/drugs is not cleaned in the
wash vats and is stored so as not to contaminate the milk or milk
contact surfaces of equipment.
Medicinals/drugs intended for treatment of non-lactating dairy
animals are segregated from those medicinals/drugs used for
lactating animals. (Separate shelves in cabinets, refrigerators or
other storage facility satisfies this item).
Drugs and medicinals shall be properly labeled to include the name
and address of the manufacturer or distributor (for OTC medicinals/drugs),
or veterinary practitioner dispensing the product (for Rx and extra
label use medicinals/drugs).
Drugs and medicinal labels shall also include:
Directions for use, and prescribed withholding times;
Cautionary statements, if needed; and
Active ingredient(s) in the drug product.
Unapproved and/or improperly labeled medicinals/drugs are not used
to treat dairy animals and are not stored in the milkhouse, milking
barn, stable or parlor.
Drugs and medicinals are stored in such a manner that they cannot
contaminate the milk or milk product-contact surface of the
equipment, containers or utensils.
NOTE: Topical antiseptics, wound dressings (unless intended for
direct injection into the teat), vaccines and other biologics, and
dosage form vitamins and/or mineral products are exempt from
labeling and storage requirements except when it is determined that
they are stored in such a manner that they may contaminate the milk
or milk product surfaces of containers or utensils.
Adequate hand-washing facilities shall be provided, including a
lavatory fixture with running water, soap or detergent and
individual sanitary towels, convenient to the milkhouse, milking
barn, stable, parlor and flush toilet.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
The hands of the milker in his preparation for milking come into
contact with almost identically the same kind of material as may
have contaminated the udders. During the course of their duties and
natural habits outside of the milking barn, the milker's hands must
be assumed to have been exposed to body discharges. Washing
facilities are required in order to increase the assurance that
milker's hands will be washed.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Hand-washing facilities are located convenient to the milkhouse,
milking barn, stable, parlor and flush toilet.
Hand-washing facilities include soap or detergent, running water,
individual sanitary towels and a lavatory fixture. Utensil wash and
rinse vats shall not be considered as hand-washing facilities.
Hands shall be washed clean and dried with an individual sanitary
towel immediately before milking, before performing any milkhouse
function and immediately after the interruption of any of these
activities. Milkers and milk haulers shall wear clean outer garments
while milking or handling milk, milk containers, utensils, or
equipment.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
The reasons for clean hands of the persons doing the milking are
similar to those for the cleanliness of the cow's udder. The
milker's hands must be assumed to have been exposed to contamination
during the course of his normal duties on the farm and at milking
time. Because the hands of all workers frequently come into contact
with their clothing it is important that the clothes worn, during
milking and the handling of milk, be clean.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Hands are washed, clean and dried with an individual sanitary towel
immediately before milking; before per-forming any milkhouse
function; and immediately after the interruption of any of these
activities.
Milkers and milk haulers wear clean outer garments while milking or
handling milk, milk containers, utensils; or equipment.
Raw milk for pasteurization shall be cooled to 7° C (45° F) or less
within 2 hours after milking. Provided, that the blend temperature
after the first milking and subsequent milkings does not exceed 10°
C (50° F).
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Milk produced by disease-free cows and under clean conditions
usually contains relatively few bacteria immediately after milking.
These can multiply to enormous numbers in a few hours unless the
milk is cooled. However when the milk is cooled quickly to 7° C (45°
F) or less, there is only a slow increase in the numbers of
bacteria. In order to understand this, it is necessary to recall
merely that bacteria are actually infinitesimal plants, and that
most plants do not grow in cold weather.
Usually, the bacteria in milk are harmless, and if this were always
true there would be no reason to cool milk, except to delay souring.
There is; however, no way for the dairyman or regulating officer to
be absolutely sure that no disease bacteria have entered the milk,
even though observance of the other items of this Ordinance will
greatly reduce this likelihood. The likelihood of transmitting
disease is much increased when the milk contains large numbers of
disease bacteria. Therefore, it is extremely important for milk to
be cooled quickly, so that small numbers of bacteria, which may have
entered, will not multiply.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Raw milk for pasteurization is cooled to 7° C (45° F) or less within
2 hours after milking. Provided, that the blend temperature after
the first milking and subsequent milkings does not exceed 10° C (50°
F).
Recirculated cold water, which is used in plate or tubular coolers
or heat exchangers, is from a safe source and protected from
contamination. Such water shall be tested semiannually and shall
comply with the bacteriological standards of Appendix G, page 199.
Effective measures shall be taken to prevent the contamination of
milk, containers, equipment and utensils by insects and rodents and
by chemicals used to control such vermin. Milk rooms shall be free
of insects and rodents. Surroundings shall be kept neat, clean and
free of conditions, which might harbor or be conducive to the
breeding of insects and rodents. Feed shall be stored in such a
manner that it will not attract birds, rodents or insects.
PUBLIC-HEALTH REASON
Proper manure disposal reduces the breeding of flies, which are
considered capable of transmitting infection by physical contact or
through excreta to milk or milk utensils. Flies visit unsanitary
places, they may carry disease organisms on their bodies and they
may carry living bacteria for as long as 4 weeks within their
bodies, and they may pass them on to succeeding generations by
infecting their eggs. Effective screening tends to prevent the
presence of flies, which are a public health menace. Flies may
contaminate the milk with disease germs, which may multiply and
become sufficiently numerous to present a public health hazard. The
surroundings of a dairy should be kept neat and clean to encourage
cleanliness and reduce insect and rodent harborages.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
This item is deemed to be satisfied when:
Surroundings are kept neat, clean and free of conditions, which
might harbor or be conducive to the breeding of insects and rodents.
During fly season, manure shall be spread directly on the fields; or
stored for not more than 4 days in a pile on the ground surface and
then spread on the fields; or stored for not more than 7 days in a
impervious-floored bin, or on an impervious-curbed platform and then
spread; or stored in a tight-screened and trapped manure shed; or
effectively treated with larvicides; or disposed of in any other
manner which controls insect breeding.
Manure packs in loafing areas, stables without stanchions, pen
stables, resting barns, wandering sheds and free-stall housing are
properly bedded and managed to prevent fly breeding.
Milk rooms are free of insects and rodents.
Milk rooms are effectively screened or otherwise protected against
the entrance of vermin.
Outer milkhouse doors are tight and self-closing. Screen doors shall
open outward.
Effective measures are taken to prevent the contamination of milk,
containers, utensils and equipment by insects and rodents and by
chemicals used to control such vermin. Insecticides and rodenticides,
not approved for use in the milkhouse, shall not be stored in the
milkhouse.
Only insecticides and rodenticides approved for use by the
regulatory agency and/or registered with the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency are used for insect and rodent control. (See
Appendix B, P. 131, for further information about insect and rodent
control.)
Insecticides and rodenticides are used only in accordance with
manufacturer's label directions and are used so as to prevent the
contamination of milk, milk containers, equipment, utensils, feed
and water.
Have covered boxes, bins or separate storage facilities for ground,
chopped or concentrated feed.
Feed may be stored in the milking portion of the barn only in such a
manner as will not attract birds, flies or rodents. Open feed
dollies or carts may be used for distributing the feed, but not
storing feed, in the milking barn. Feed dollies, fully automated
feeding systems, or other feed containers, may be exempt from the
use of covers provided, they do not attract birds, insects or
rodents.
NOTE:--A convenient inspection form for producer dairy forms, which
summarized the applicable sanitation requirements is found in
Appendix M, page 311.