Our team of BRCGS consultants has helped hundreds of companies in food storage and distribution achieve and maintain their BRCGS certification. Having seen it all, we’ve compiled a list of common mistakes that can jeopardise receiving a high grade or BRCGS certification altogether.
Most common mistakes that impact your BRCGS Certification
Purchasing products outside your normal scope without updating relevant documentation and procedures.
We understand that business growth often involves expanding into new areas, such as storing different types of produce with varying temperature requirements. When considering operational changes, it’s important to keep your BRCGS consultant involved early in the process. They can help identify any implications and necessary updates to policies, procedures, and documentation. Additionally, your certification body should be notified right away, as an extension of scope may require a new audit, either in person or remotely, depending on the nature of the change.
Assuming equipment maintenance has been carried out to BRCGS standard
As a storage and distribution business, you rely on various machinery and equipment such as delivery vehicles, chillers, and forklifts, which require regular servicing and inspections from third-party providers. While these providers carry out the necessary work, you remain responsible for their condition. It’s crucial to verify that the work has been properly completed. After each service or inspection, review the paperwork to ensure it meets BRCGS standards. This documentation should then be securely filed, with a backup copy, and be ready to present during your next audit.
Failing to review and act on pest control paperwork
Nothing raises red flags for auditors more than evidence of pests in your facilities. It’s crucial to stay on top of regular inspections, both internal and by a third-party pest control company. Any issues highlighted should be addressed immediately to prevent the problem from escalating. Make sure you record your actions and sign them off on the pest controllers reports.
Neglecting to update Supplier Approval Questionnaires for all suppliers
Companies often overlook the importance of regularly reviewing and updating supplier approval questionnaires. Keeping these questionnaires up to date ensures that suppliers comply with the latest legal requirements and food safety standards, minimising the risk of non-compliance. Updated questionnaires also allow for more thorough assessments, helping align supplier practices with company goals and expectations. Failing to maintain current supplier approval questionnaires could leave your business vulnerable in the event of food safety complaints from customers.
Food Safety training
Our consultants often spot gaps in staff training. It’s crucial to establish a robust food safety and health & safety training program for all employees, especially new hires, and provide regular ongoing training to keep policies and procedures at the forefront. Failing to ensure adequate training could leave your business exposed in the long run.
Delaying the resolution of Non-Conformities until the last minute
This is one of the most common issues that our consultants see. Companies are busy and when tasks aren’t seen as urgent, they often get delayed—until an inspection is approaching and the issues need to be addressed quickly. This can lead to stress, mistakes, and sometimes added costs. In May 2021, as part of issue 4, BRCGS introduced unannounced audits for Storage and Distribution certification, making it more important than ever to stay prepared.
By staying on top of these areas, you’ll reduce the stress surrounding BRCGS certification and increase your chances of achieving an AA grade. An experienced consultant, like our team at Complete Food Safety, can guide you and provide timely reminders of tasks that need to be addressed to keep everything on track.