Fish friers Review - Mar / Apr 2012 - Issue 2 - National Federation of ...

THE fish friers REVIEW
I am writing this article to inform readers of the Fish
Friers Review of major changes to the current
system of “Scores on the Doors” sometimes known
as “Rate my Place” and what you can do to ensure
that you comply and use the benefits to your
advantage.
New system
The Food Standards Agency in partnerships with local
authorities has launched a national scheme so that all
ratings are the same in England, Wales and Northern
Ireland. This will be known as the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS)
with 6 levels, 0 to 5, indicated by a black/white text on a green window
sticker. (Scotland will use a simple Pass or Fail Scheme)
Different schemes
Under the present arrangements, local authorities have different
schemes resulting in a range of ratings. Some are based on 5 stars, 3
stars and symbols whilst others have color scores such as bronze, silver
and gold.
At present Birmingham use H for Hygiene with 5 H’s being the top score.
Some authorities such as Walsall and Sandwell never had their own
rating but have implemented the new system, now in force. Birmingham
and other authorities will be adopting the new system during 2012.
16
What’s the Score?
With the previously regional ‘Scores on the Doors’ scheme having recently been
unified into one National scheme on 1st March 2012, Michael Pili, Training
Manager for the Midlands Seafish Training Association, reports on the new Food
Hygiene Rating scheme and what this means for fish and chip shops
Birmingham rating comparison
Birmingham Rating Food Hygiene Rating
5 H’s Excellent No 5 Very Good
4 H’s Very Good No 4 Good
3 H’s Good No 3 Generally Satisfactory
2 H’s Fair No 2 Improvement Necessary
1 H Poor No 1 Major Improvement Necessary
0 H’s Major Improvement Required No 0 Urgent Improvement Necessary
This is an overhaul of all ratings rather than just an amendment to
wording; standards are becoming higher and Environmental Health
Officers will be visiting all food premises to inspect and assign a
new rating. Do not assume that because you achieved a Very Good
or Excellent on the old scheme you will achieve this with the new
scheme. “It is expected that 94% of local authorities will be on the
new scheme by autumn 2012.”
Please note other important changes:-
You have the right to appeal within 14 days if you are not happy
with your new rating but strict conditions apply.
You may also appeal if a material change has taken place such as
a major refit of the shop or when taking over an existing business.