Positive story: Excellent galley hygiene and housekeeping

On a walk-around audit, a member highlights very high standards of housekeeping and hygiene in the galley on one of its vessels.

• A high level of cleanliness was established even in difficult to access places.
• There was proper segregation by allocation of plastic boxes on shelves in freezers to avoid cross contamination of products.
• There was proper food labelling with dates and time of packing.
• Knives and chopping boards were properly colour coded for use with different foodstuffs, and stored appropriately.
• Correct PPE was observed as in use; mesh gloves were available as well.
• Bins – waste receptacles – were equipped with covers and pedals to avoid contamination.
• Galley crew were found to have good knowledge of galley HSE systems – such as CO2 fire-fighting and other equipment and procedures.

Implementing high cleanliness standards, proper segregation, food labelling, and color-coded tools enhances food safety, efficiency, and reduces cross-contamination, leading to better customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Galley crew knowledge of galley HSE systems, improves safety and preparedness, fostering a secure and organized working environment for the team.

The Master made special thanks to the galley team for their dedication to maintaining high standards of hygiene, safety, and efficiency; as well as to the vessel management team organizing and encouraging the highest standards of catering and hygiene onboard.