The Role Of The Health Inspector

My company has recently been charged with conducting some health inspections in a specific area.  Most of my visits have been pretty uneventful; however, a few have been more than noteworthy.  having spent over 20 years in the industry myself, I know first hand how challenging any given day can be.  It has also enabled me to distinguish between "working dirt" and "filth"; as well as, the difference between the truth vs. lies and excuses. 

As I go through each day, my goal is not to close restaurants or find violations.  My goal is simply to protect the public from illness or God forbid...death.  We have encountered many folks who are trying to "do the right thing"; and, several who have bent, twisted, and broken every rule in the book.
My question is, as operators, why do some think the rules apply to everyone BUT them?  I don't care if they are corporations or small "Mom & Pop" type establishments...the guidelines are the same for everyone - no one is "out to get you".

Bottom line is, if your establishment is clean and your following the rules...there is absolutely NOTHING to worry about with any inspection.

A Matter Of Public Record...

Today began yet another week in the food service industry.   I spent 20+ years in food service, scrubbing walls, floors, drains, and even the thresholds and door jams at the entrances/exit doors of the building.  I thought this is what good managers were SUPPOSED to do.  My employees had names for me (I'm certain) when I pulled out the toothbrushes and said, "Well, we're not busy today so we need to clean!".  We even scrubbed the grout with toothbrushes!  I can't imagine any inspector coming into my facility and telling me it was filthy and needed to be cleaned.  I would have been mortified.  I don't want to even think about how many managers I have said just that to in the past week.

How many of you know that health inspections are public record?  In most states you can go online and check out the scores of your favorite restaurants....reward those that are doing a good job by frequenting their facilities.  If they're not doing a good job, well - I'll let you make that decision on your own!