Food establishments in New South Wales (NSW) may have more time than originally thought to implement compliance measures in anticipation of FSANZ Standard 3.2.2A.
In an announcement made on November 29, the NSW Food Authority disclosed a legislative update concerning the proposed implementation date for Standard 3.2.2A. Not all food businesses in the state will be impacted, so it’s important that businesses are clear on what this amendment means for them specifically.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the areas affected and provide an overview of the potential implications.
Understanding the Legislative Changes in NSW
The legislative changes made by the NSW Food Authority provide new guidance for food establishments preparing for the imminent enforcement of Standard 3.2.2A. The amendment is set to extend the timeframe for compliance to a specific group of food businesses in the state.
Extended Compliance Deadline for Specific Establishments
School canteens, children's services, supermarkets, greengrocers, and delis have been granted an additional 12 months to fulfil the new food safety requirements mandated by Standard 3.2.2A. These establishments now have until December 2024 to carry out the necessary compliance measures.
Ongoing Regulatory Compliance
This extension only applies to the business types listed above. Notably, the amendment excludes retail and hospitality sector businesses – these establishments must continue to follow the guidance of previous regulations. This means that they are still required to implement compliance measures ahead of the initial deadline (December 8 2023).
Implications Outside of NSW
Businesses located in other states or territories should note that this legislative amendment only impacts NSW. Those operating outside of NSW must continue to comply with their own state-specific legislation.
Remain Up-To-Date
Upon introducing the amendment, the NSW Food Authority stressed the importance of staying informed regarding Standard 3.2.2A. Businesses are encouraged to visit the authority's website for accurate and up-to-date information concerning regulatory compliance.
Understanding the Nuances of Standard 3.2.2A
To fully grasp the implications of these changes, it’s important to understand the specifics of Standard 3.2.2A. The standard mandates an array of food safety protocols that businesses involved in food preparation and service must follow, encompassing three key directives:
1. Food Safety Supervisors
Businesses must appoint at least one certified Food Safety Supervisor to implement and monitor food handling procedures in a consistent manner.
2. Food Handler Training
All staff involved in food handling must be able to demonstrate pre-determined food safety skills or participate in a Food Handler course. This equips them with the fundamental knowledge and expertise required to identify and mitigate food safety risks relating to improper food handling practices.
3. Record Management
To improve traceability and accountability, Category 1 businesses involved in preparing high-risk food must maintain an accurate record-keeping system for specific tasks. These records must remain on the premises for at least three months in case an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) requests to see them during a routine inspection.
Government-Approved Food Safety Training
As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), the Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) is authorised to deliver state-specific Food Handler and Food Safety Supervisor training programs that enable businesses in NSW to comply with Standard 3.2.2A.
2
min read