SECTION 310:260-9-4. Protection of stored food

(a)   Pests. The operator shall take all reasonable measures to protect the area where food is kept or stored in a food storage warehouse against the entrance into the establishment, and the breeding or presence on the premises of rodents, birds, flies, roaches, weevils and other vermin.

(b)   Animals. No dogs, cats, fowl, birds or any other type animal shall be permitted in a food storage warehouse, except that patrol dogs accompanying blind or deaf persons shall not be excluded.

(c)   Use of rodenticides. When in use, rodenticides shall be placed in covered bait boxes where necessary to prevent spillage or possible contamination of stored food and danger to employees. All rodenticide baits shall be applied in such a manner as to prevent contamination of stored food products.

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(d)   Storage and labeling of toxics.

(1)   Cleaning materials, pesticides, rodenticides, and any other such hazardous substances used in the operation of the warehouse shall be stored:

(A)   In properly labeled containers in a closed closet or cabinet in a separate area from food products.

(B)   An adequate distance from stored food and single service articles to prevent contamination caused by leakage or spillage.

(2)   Where multiple level storage methods are used, all such substances shall be stored below food or single service articles.

(e)   Pest control services.

(1)   When a licensed pest control service is employed, it shall file at the warehouse a diagram of the bait station locations and the rodenticide in use.

(2)   The operator should designate an employee to be responsible for the pest control program being used.

(f)   Product storage.

(1)   Skids or pallets shall provide a minimum of 6" clearance above the floor to facilitate cleaning, protection of the product, and for movement of air in refrigerated storage areas.

(2)   Merchandise stored on skids or pallets shall be at least 18" away from any wall.

(3)   Construction of shelving, cabinets, and storage methods used shall be suchas to permit ready access for cleaning and sanitary inspection.

(4)   No overhead waste drain pipes or other overhead piping shall be used which presents a risk of contamination to foods stored below due to excess condensation or leakage. Protective shields may be used to eliminate this risk.

(5)   Bagged animal feeds shall be stored so as not to be intermingled with the storage of human food products. Storage on separate pallets is acceptable.

[Source: Amended at 37 Ok Reg 1385, eff 9-11-20]