02 NCAC 52I .0104            PLANT OPERATIONS

(a)  "Approved Methods" for processing, as required in Paragraph 7 of G.S. 106‑168.8, shall be interpreted as meaning that the raw materials shall be heat treated at a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient time to destroy all disease producing organisms.

(b)  Outside storage areas for building materials, drums, machinery, other equipment and supplies shall be so arranged and maintained as not to create an unsightly appearance or provide hiding and breeding places for rodents, flies and other vermin.

(c)  Buildings and premises shall be kept as clean and neat as practicable under good operational practices.

(d)  Skinning and cutting room floors and walls, and the waste from raw materials, shall be frequently disinfected with disinfectants approved by the inspection committee.

(e)  Disinfectant stations for employees shall be conveniently located.

(f)  Employees in contact with raw material shall wash and disinfect their hands and other contaminated parts of their bodies before coming in contact with the finished product of any portion of the plant where finished products are located. Likewise, employees shall change or disinfect their rubber boots, rubber shoes, gloves or any other wearing apparel which has been in contact with raw material before having contact with finished products or before entering any portion of the plant where finished products are located.

(g)  Rubber boots or rubber shoes shall be worn by employees working in the raw material section of a rendering plant.

(h)  Trash and waste shall be disposed of daily by burning, burying or by other means approved by the Committee.

(i)  Domestic animals shall not be allowed on the premises except those owned by persons living on the premises. No domestic animals shall be allowed to come in contact with raw material.

(j)  Raw material shall not be allowed to remain at a collecting station for more than 12 hours unless kept under satisfactory refrigeration.

(k)  Copies of the law and the rules and regulations relating to rendering plants shall be made available and explained to employees in order that they may cooperate in carrying them out.

(l)  Sprinklers or spray equipment for disinfecting purposes shall be kept in or conveniently near the raw material department.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 106‑168.8; 106‑168.12;

Eff. April 1, 1984;

Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. March 26, 2017.