12 | Protect Food in all Phases of Preparation Using HACCP Guidelines Figure 12.4 CCP Decision Tree
Does this step involve a hazard of sufficient likelihood of occurrence and severity to warrant its control?
YES
NO
Does a control measure for the hazard exist at this step?
Modify the step, process, or product.
YES NO
Is control at this step necessary for safety?
YES
Not a CCP
NO
Is control at this step necessary to prevent, eliminate, or reduce the risk of the hazard to consumers?
Not a CCP
STOP
YES CCP Source: FDA, 2023a
the food processes. The specific critical limits for each CCP and the corrective actions should also be clearly recorded in writing.
The second part of record keeping is the day-to-day monitoring. Daily forms or logs should be used to document time and temperature records for the CCPs, and corrective actions that were taken if a critical limit was not met. Maintain these logs in a notebook accessible to all members of the food production team.
Glossary
Dry Lab False recording of temperatures without actually taking them
Foodservice Management—By Design
Foodservice managers should regularly review the logs, calibrate temperature monitoring equipment, and observe temperature monitoring by employees. These steps will help curb the risk of a harmful practice called dry lab, which occurs when employees enter time and temperature measurements without actually taking them. Dry lab will undermine the success of any HACCP program, so be sure to train employees on the importance of accurate time and temperature monitoring.