Governmental agencies inspect convenience stores for various safety aspects. A health department inspects for food handling safety. A labor department checks for employee and customer physical safety. A law enforcement agency inspects for security and public safety. Other agencies may inspect for
Governmental agencies inspect convenience stores for various safety aspects. A health department inspects for food handling safety. A labor department checks for employee and customer physical safety. A law enforcement agency inspects for security and public safety. Other agencies may inspect for such things as safe handling of gasoline and related products. A wise small business owner, either within a corporate franchise or an individual with several stores, will perform his own inspections to avoid expensive and embarrassing failures of safety inspections by authorities, which in some cases could include closing a store.
Read Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules on workplace safety and security and see how they apply specifically to the convenience store you are inspecting. Check U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration regulations and state and local health department rules on storing and handling food.
Ask local public safety agencies about rules for fire and burglar alarms, occupancy restrictions and traffic regulations for both vehicles and pedestrians. Include provisions for safe handicapped parking and access, including walkway ramps or self-opening doors where appropriate.
Make a visual inspection of the store and its surroundings to look for such safety violations such as lights burned out or fire or security alarms not turned on. Inspect any gasoline pumps or storage tanks for leaks. Make sure propane tanks, motor oil and similar materials are properly and safely stored and appropriate warning signs are posted.
Check the temperature of coolers where soft drinks, sandwiches or other foods are stored. Make sure foods like pastries or fruits and vegetables are in enclosed cabinets. Look at the condition of stored foods for any signs of damage or spoilage. Address how employees should handle foodstuffs when stocking items, removing outdated merchandise or handling foods being sold; make sure gloves are worn when appropriate in any food preparation.
Observe the total operation. Are floor spills cleaned promptly? Are any carts stored safely? Are aisles kept clear? Are all exterior doors unlocked, working properly and not blocked in any way? Are there fire extinguishers and first aid supplies available for emergencies? Act as an official looking for safety violations; note any problems and correct them before an official inspection.
- Knowledge of federal, state and local health and safety laws
- Illinois Department of Public Health: Food Safety Check List
- Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute: Convenience Business Safety Act
- City of Milwaukee Health D