During the week of September 14, the Jefferson County Health Department conducted inspections of 45 food establishments, with scores ranging from 71 to 100. The unannounced inspections, which include both routine assessments and reinspections without assigned scores, provide insights into food safety practices across the county. Facilities that do not prepare food are categorized as low-priority and are not given scores.
Understanding Inspection Scores
The scoring system used by the Jefferson County Health Department starts with a baseline score of 100. Points are deducted based on observed violations that can jeopardize food safety:
- Priority Violations: Substantial concerns that directly lead to foodborne illness (−6 points).
- Priority Foundation Violations: Issues that indirectly facilitate food safety risks (−3 points).
- Core Violations: General sanitation issues or poor retail practices (−1 point).
- Repeat Violations: Any violations noted in previous inspections that recur (−2 points).
Dan Kane, the environmental supervisor, emphasizes that the overall score is what matters most, rather than a simple range of good or bad scores. He points out that two priority violations often signal more serious issues than multiple core violations.
Reinspections allow establishments time to rectify violations, especially those classified as priority and priority foundation, which need correction swiftly. Though closure of establishments by the department is rare, most closures stem from emergencies like power outages or sewage backups, not necessarily health violations.
For the most up-to-date inspection reports or to review the last three inspections of a facility, the public can visit the Jefferson County Health Department’s website at jeffcohealth.org/environmental.
Summary of Inspections
The following are highlights from the inspection scores for the week of September 14, focusing on notable scores and violations:
Antonia Elementary School and Bellacino’s both achieved perfect scores of 100, indicating high compliance with food safety standards.
China King scored 95. Reason for the score: observed violations included the presence of flour beetles in bulk storage, improper storage of wet wiping cloths, and grease buildup inside fryer access doors alongside others.
Detour Grill and Bar had a lower score of 71, with numerous serious violations—such as employees not washing hands before putting on gloves and administering outdated food items. This score highlights the importance of maintaining stringent hygiene practices.
Dunkin Donuts and multiple schools, such as Clyde Hamrick Elementary and McAlister’s Deli, also achieved scores above 90, while their violations ranged from dented cans to unsanitized equipment.
Facilities like Pasta House Co. and Texas Roadhouse also exhibited violations that included improper food handling and general sanitation concerns, leading to scores below 95.
- Notably, establishments like Wendy’s and De Soto Junior High School identified specific issues such as ice buildup and dust accumulation, impacting their scores but still showcasing proactive steps towards maintenance.
Key Takeaways
The inspections carried out by the Jefferson County Health Department play a critical role in ensuring food safety and public health. The broad range of scores reflects varied levels of compliance, with some establishments showcasing best practices while others encounter substantial issues that need immediate attention.
Importance of Compliance
Food safety is paramount for both consumers and establishments. Clear guidelines and systematic inspections help maintain high health standards, aiming to protect the public from potential foodborne illnesses. Each inspection serves as a reminder for establishments to adhere not just to the rules but to prioritize the health and safety of their patrons.
Training staff in food safety, providing the necessary equipment and supplies, and conducting regular self-audits can help ensure compliance and uphold a positive reputation. Establishments should view inspections as collaborative opportunities for improvement rather than just evaluative measures.
Conclusion
As food safety continues to be a critical component of public health, ongoing education, stringent adherence to guidelines, and proactive measures by food establishments are essential. By recognizing the implications of their inspection scores, food businesses can foster a safer dining environment, thereby enhancing community trust and promoting overall health within Jefferson County and beyond.
Regular review of inspection scores and understanding the rationale behind them can motivate food establishments to implement necessary changes proactively, making them better prepared for future inspections and ultimately improving service quality and safety for patrons.
