hygienic practices. According to the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), areas
that are inadequately drained “may con-
tribute to contamination of food products
through seepage or foodborne filth and by
providing an environment conducive to the
proliferation of microorganisms and insects.”
Excessively dusty roads, yards, or parking lots
constitute a contamination source in areas
where food is exposed. Improperly stored
refuse, litter, equipment, and uncut weeds or
grass within the immediate vicinity of the
plant buildings or structures may provide a
breeding place or harborage for rodents,
insects, and other pests.
The site should be equipped with the capa-
bility to dispose off the seafood plant wastes.
Solids, liquids, vapors, and odors emanating
from a plant present a poor image and can
result in legal action by either regulatory
groups and/or concerned citizens. Waste dis-
posal facilities must be designed to meet fed-
eral, state, and local requirements.
The site must also supply an ample
amount of potable water for plant opera-
tions. If water is drawn from wells, analysis
for mineral content and microbial load
should be conducted, and the water must
meet the standards established by the appro-
priate regulatory agency. After water use,
adequate provisions should be made for
wastewater discharge.
Construction Requirements
Although construction requirements are
addressed in Chapter 14, this information
relates to considerations for seafood process-
ing plants. Materials that do not absorb water
and are easily cleaned with resistance to cor-
rosion and other deterioration, should be
incorporated. Openings should be equipped
with air or mesh screens to prevent entry of
insects, rodents, birds, and other pests. A brief
discussion of sanitary features of various
construction phases will be covered to provide
guidelines for establishing a hygienic facility
designed for effective cleaning.Floors
Floors should be constructed of an impervi-
ous material, such as waterproof concrete or
tile. The material should be durable with a sur-
face that is even enough to prevent accumula-
tion of debris but not smooth enough to cause
slipping and falling. A rough finish or use of
embedded abrasive particles can reduce acci-
dents. A frequently used surface is a water-
based acrylic epoxy resin that provides a
durable, nonabsorbent, easy-to-clean surface
that can double the life of the concrete floor.
This finish should contain an abrasive material
to provide a skid-resistant surface. Although
the cost is nearly prohibitive, acid brick floors
are known to be satisfactory and durable.Floor Drains
A drainage outlet should be provided in
the processing area for each 37 m^2 of floor
space. As with other processing plants, floors
in the processing areas should have a slope to
a drainage outlet of 2%. It is imperative that
this slope be uniform, with no dead spots to
trap water and debris. All drains should con-
tain traps. Drainage lines should have an
inside diameter of at least 10 cm and should
be constructed of cast iron, steel, or polyvinyl
chloride tubing. State and local codes should
be checked to verify that these materials are
permitted. Drainage lines should be vented
to the outside air to reduce odors and con-
tamination. All vents should be screened to
prevent entrance of pests into the plant. It is
also recommended that contamination be
further reduced by connection of drain lines
from toilets directly into the sewage system
instead of into other drainage lines.Ceilings
Ceilings should be constructed at least 3 m
high in work areas with a material impervious