Transitioning hygiene monitoring systems can be a complex task, especially when it involves updating established procedures and workflows. Shifting from familiar systems, such as ATP testing, to a new platform like FreshCheck often raises concerns about rewriting standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensuring smooth data continuity. However, FreshCheck is designed to make this transition as effortless as possible by offering streamlined processes, simple tools, and hands-on support. This guide will walk you through how FreshCheck simplifies the onboarding process, from importing existing sample plans to updating your SOPs and ensuring hygiene compliance across multiple sites.
Transitioning Hygiene Monitoring Systems
Switching hygiene monitoring systems often feels daunting due to concerns over disruptions in established workflows, documentation updates, and re-training staff. The challenge typically lies in maintaining consistency during the transition while ensuring that your data and procedures remain intact. At FreshCheck, we understand these concerns, and we’ve designed our platform to ensure a seamless and efficient transition. From importing existing sample plans to guiding you through SOP updates, FreshCheck offers dedicated support to ensure minimal disruption to your operations.
Step 1: Importing Existing Sample Plans
One of the most time-consuming aspects of transitioning to a new hygiene monitoring system is recreating sample plans from scratch. Fortunately, FreshCheck allows you to import your existing sample plans and test points, ensuring seamless data continuity. By uploading your current sample plans as .csv files, all of your existing test points, schedules, and critical control points are instantly transferred to the FreshCheck system. This eliminates the need for manual re-entry of data, significantly reducing the time and effort required during onboarding. Whether you manage hygiene monitoring across a single facility or multiple sites, this feature ensures that your hygiene data remains intact.
Step 2: Updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Another key concern during transitions is updating SOPs to reflect the new tools and workflows. With FreshCheck’s easy-to-use swab-based hygiene verification system, updating your SOPs becomes a straightforward process. FreshCheck’s patented swabs, which provide a visible colour change when contamination is present, can be easily incorporated into your existing procedures.
Here are a few simple steps for updating your SOPs:
FreshCheck Step-by-Step Swabbing Procedure:
1. Preparation:
Ensure the FreshCheck swab is stored at ambient temperature and is ready for use.
Put on disposable gloves and prepare the test area by ensuring it is dry and free from visible debris.
2. Swabbing the Area:
Identify the surface or equipment to be tested. For consistent results, aim to swab a 10x10 cm area.
Open the FreshCheck swab by gently grasping the cap, ensuring no spillage from the tube.
Swab the surface using a zigzag or grid pattern to ensure thorough contact with all parts of the test area.
3. Inserting Swab into Reagent Tube:
After swabbing, place the swab back into the tube containing the hygiene verification reagent.
Ensure the cap is securely closed.
4. Result Observation:
Gently agitate the swab within the tube to mix with the reagent.
Wait 30 seconds for the swab to change colour.
Purple: Pre-test colour
Bright Blue: Excess Cleaning Chemicals
Blue: Indicates a clean surface with no significant contamination.
Green: Warning to re-clean.
Yellow/Orange: Signals the clear presence of contaminants, warranting further cleaning and re-testing.
5. Recording the Result:
Using the FreshCheck app, take a photo of the swab next to the test location.
Log the result by selecting the corresponding color within the app or record manually using the color scale provided.
6. Cleaning and Retesting (if applicable):
If contamination is detected, re-clean the surface and retest following the same procedure.
7. Disposal:
Once testing is complete, safely discard the swab. FreshCheck swabs and their packaging are fully recyclable.
We also provide guided support throughout this process, offering templates and advice to help you easily integrate FreshCheck into your SOPs. This ensures that your team remains compliant without the stress of rewriting documentation from scratch.
Step 3: Managing Test Points and Sample Plans Across Multiple Sites
Once your sample plans are imported and SOPs are updated, managing hygiene monitoring across multiple sites is easier than ever with FreshCheck’s intuitive platform. Whether you have a single facility or multiple locations, FreshCheck enables you to set up and manage test points and schedules with ease.
Through the FreshCheck app or web portal, you can:
Create new test points or edit existing ones.
Assign test points to specific locations, equipment, or departments.
Set custom schedules for hygiene tests, allowing you to monitor high-risk areas more frequently.
Track test completion and results in real time across all sites, ensuring consistent hygiene compliance.
Step 4: Dedicated Onboarding Support
At FreshCheck, we believe that onboarding should be as smooth and hassle-free as possible, which is why we provide dedicated, personal support throughout the process. From helping you import your sample plans to guiding you through SOP updates, our team is here to support you every step of the way. FreshCheck ensures that you’ll be supported by real people, who are easily contactable by phone or email whenever you need assistance. If required we can also provide ongoing training and troubleshooting to ensure that your team feels confident using FreshCheck from day one.
BRCGS Accreditation
FreshCheck has completed BRCGS accreditation which means that our product has been rigorously tested and meets the stringent requirements set by the BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard. With this certification, you can be confident that FreshCheck provides a reliable, compliant hygiene monitoring solution.
Effortless Onboarding
Switching to FreshCheck is a smooth, efficient process that eliminates many of the usual challenges associated with transitioning hygiene monitoring systems. By following these steps, importing existing sample plans, updating SOPs, and managing test points across multiple sites you can maintain hygiene compliance without interruption. With FreshCheck’s dedicated onboarding support, real-person assistance, and BRCGS accreditation, you can trust us to make your transition effortless. Contact the FreshCheck team today and let us help you get started.