1. Test subjects and timing
The ATP Test (Kikkoman A3) is a test to confirm the cleanliness of the surface. Therefore, areas that are required to be cleaned and hygienic on a daily basis are subject to test.
Be sure to perform the test after cleaning the target area. Areas where work is in progress or where dirt is visible are not subject to test because it is obvious that many fish and other components are attached.
2. Understanding the current situation and improving cleaning methods
To understand the present condition, the measurement after the correct cleaning of the object which requires all hygiene control is carried out. If possible, several testing of a single subject can be performed to identify areas that are susceptible to residual washing. For example, in the case of a fish basket, inspect the outer, inner, side, and lower corner portions of the basket to determine points that are often left over from washing (figure below).
《Subject of measurement suitable for control under ATP Test 》
- Parts where fish come into direct contact
(workbenches, sorters, fish boxes, mainboards, knives, etc.) - Areas touched by many people
(e.g., refrigerator handles, personal computers) - Place where work tools, container instruments, etc. are stored
- Facility toilets and laundries (faucets, sinks, doors, etc.)
- Hands and fingers of the worker after hand washing
3.Establishment of standard values
Hygiene management is not possible if evaluation standards differ depending on the date of inspection and the number of inspectors in daily tests. The test points are selected, the swabbing procedure is determined for each object, and the operational control standard values are determined based on the materials, shapes, and the results of the current state survey( Refer to 5. Example of the test points).
4.Continuous management
By checking the current problems, you can learn about the improvement of cleaning methods and daily management points. However, it is impossible to maintain a hygienic work environment without continuous management. This section introduces an example of an effective test.
- Daily management: Set priority control points and perform periodic inspections (Refer to 6. Management table of test results).
- Drill-in tests: Unscheduled punch-in tests are also performed for objects outside daily control, thereby improving the hygiene level of the entire work environment.
- Hand washing education: Periodic hand washing tests are performed to confirm correct hand washing, thereby raising workers' hygiene awareness.
5. Example of the test points
Test point ① ：Plastic cage
Test point ② ：Scale
Test point ③： Door knob
Test point ④ ：Door knob of bathroom door
6.Management table of test results
Source:
Fishing Boat and System Engineering Association of Japan. [Quality and Hygiene control-To protect the value of fishery products at local markets-] Suisanbutsu no kachi wo mamoru tameno sanchi ichiba no hinshitsu kanri・eisei kanri. 2017．
