Waste Management

Aligned with FSSC 22000 – Food Safety Management System Requirements

Requirement Overview

FSSC 22000 requires that organizations establish and maintain effective systems for the control and disposal of waste in a manner that does not compromise product safety, hygiene, or quality. Waste management procedures must be documented, implemented, and regularly monitored to prevent contamination, pest attraction, and operational disruption.

An effective waste control program is an essential component of a site’s PRP (Prerequisite Programs), contributing to the prevention of food safety hazards.

Aligned with BRCGS for Storage & Distribution Issue 4 – Clause 4.3.1 & 4.3.3

Requirement Overview

BRCGS for Storage & Distribution requires that products moved via cross-docking are traceable and controlled at all times, even when they are not held in storage for extended periods.

Clause 4.3.1: “The company shall ensure that traceability is maintained at all stages, including during cross-docking operations.”
Clause 4.3.3: “Procedures shall be in place to ensure that all products handled, including those not stored on-site, remain under control and are not subject to contamination or substitution.”

Cross-docking operations must not compromise product traceability, safety, or integrity. Even with minimal handling and temporary presence, each product must be accurately identified, documented, and protected.

Key Compliance Objectives

  • ✓ Prevent contamination through effective waste segregation and disposal

    ✓ Ensure timely removal of waste without disrupting food production areas

    ✓ Protect raw materials, packaging, and finished products from exposure

    ✓ Maintain documented procedures, responsibilities, and staff training

Step-by-Step Compliance Implementation

1. Define Waste Types and Segregation Methods

  • Examples of Waste Categories:

    • • Food waste

      • Packaging waste

      • Chemical or hazardous waste (e.g., cleaning agents)

      • General refuse

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Waste stream identification and categorization

      • Color-coded or clearly labeled bins for segregation

      • Staff training materials on waste segregation practices

2. Establish Waste Handling and Removal Procedures

  • Procedural Considerations:

    • • Prompt removal of waste from processing and storage areas

      • Defined schedules for waste collection and area sanitation

      • Use of sealed, leak-proof, and clearly identified containers

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Documented SOPs for waste handling and removal

      • Cleaning and removal logs

      • Bin location plans with assigned responsibilities

3. Maintain External Waste Storage Areas

  • External Waste Storage Should Be:

    • • Secure, clean, and resistant to pest intrusion

      • Located away from food processing and storage zones

      • Free from odors, leakage, and overflow risks

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Facility layout indicating waste zone location

      • Cleaning schedules and checklists for storage areas

      • Pest control monitoring records

4. Train and Monitor Staff

  • Training Topics Include:

    • • Waste categorization and segregation procedures

      • Bin cleaning and replacement frequency

      • Spill control and contamination prevention

    Evidence to Maintain:

    • • Staff training records

      • Spot checks or internal audits of waste practices

      • Corrective action reports related to non-conformances

Common Audit Findings & Recommended Fixes

Audit Finding Recommended Action
Overflowing or open waste bins Use closed containers and increase removal frequency
No segregation of food and non-food waste Introduce clear labeling and color-coded containers
Waste stored near processing areas Redesign layout and relocate waste zones
Unclean or pest-attracting storage Implement documented cleaning and pest control schedules

Auditor Verification Checklist

During an FSSC 22000 audit, be prepared to provide:

  • • Documented waste management procedures and flow diagrams

    • Bin labeling systems and waste segregation practices

    • Cleaning schedules and waste removal logs

    • Pest control records relevant to waste storage areas

    • Staff training documentation and role assignments

Implementation Roadmap

Build Your Waste Management Program

  • ✓ Identify and categorize all site waste types

    ✓ Establish designated waste zones and bin systems

Train and Enforce

  • ✓ Train staff in segregation and safe disposal practices

    ✓ Use signage and color-coded visuals to reinforce practices

Monitor and Clean

  • ✓ Maintain a strict removal and cleaning schedule

    ✓ Audit waste areas for compliance and cleanliness

Improve Continuously

  • ✓ Review pest control or hygiene incident logs

    ✓ Adjust handling procedures or schedules as needed

Why This Matters?

  • ✓ Prevents contamination and supports pest control

    ✓ Demonstrates hygiene and food safety commitment

    ✓ Meets FSSC 22000 requirements for PRPs and operational control

    ✓ Supports certification readiness and brand protection

Support Tools Available

Food Safety Systems provides:

  • ✓ Waste management SOP templates tailored for food sites

    ✓ Visual bin labeling and waste segregation kits

    ✓ Staff training materials for compliance

    ✓ Internal audit checklists for waste and sanitation controls

GET STARTED NOW

Food Safety Systems is an independent consulting provider. We support businesses implementing FSSC 22000-compliant systems but are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or certified by the Foundation FSSC or GFSI. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners and used only for reference.

For official FSSC 22000 requirements, visit: www.fssc.com