Root cause analysis (RCA) is the process undertaken to find the root cause of a problem, which, if adequately addressed, will prevent a recurrence of that problem. It is a requirement set by such GFSI-benchmarked schemes as SQF and BRC, and is used to provide permanent, long-term and practical solutions to food safety and quality problems. RCA uses a systematic, team-based and data-driven approach and should be performed as soon as possible upon the identification of a problem or incident. The RCA and problem-solving methodology will be taught through presentation, case studies and role playing exercises.

• Understand the application of problem solving tools and techniques
• Identify and prioritize problems
• Use root cause analysis to systematically address problem situations and identify root causes
• Develop corrective and preventive action based on RCA
• Understand and apply investigative interviewing techniques

Building Your Food Safety Culture

When people choose to do something because they believe it is the right thing to do – even if it takes longer or interferes with their other duties – you know you are building a strong food safety culture.

Culture starts at the top, with senior management setting the tone and determining food safety objectives and goals. Senior management’s leadership in setting expectations, and an accountability mindset and approach to food safety, is vital to achieving and sustaining a robust food safety culture.

Food safety culture is recognized as a key factor to achieving ongoing food safety success and to a better organizational culture overall. In this program, you gain an understanding of food safety culture best practices, the key elements that contribute to a robust food safety culture and how to begin the process of culture change for sustained food safety success.

• Use a food safety culture assessment to:
• Evaluate your current food safety culture
• Develop a food safety culture checklist
• Prioritize areas for improvement
• Identify potential key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure food safety culture
• Begin developing an action plan for your facility
• Discuss the importance of organizational culture and influence on food safety
• Differentiate between a food safety program and food safety culture
• Outline methods for measuring and strengthening your company’s food safety culture
• Apply safety culture best practices within your organization