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September 06-08, 2018 | Edinburgh, Scotland
Food safety and Hygiene
International Conference on
Journal of Food Technology and Preservation | ISSN: 2591-796X | Volume 2
Innovative strategy to improve food safety standards in the emirates of Dubai by happiness inspection
Sultan Ali Al Taher
Dubai Municipality, UAE
Introduction: Dubai Municipality Food Safety Department used
an innovative strategy “Happiness Inspection - No fine but more
support & guidance” to improve food safety standards of 450
establishments evaluated as “unsatisfactory” consecutively in
the last 3 years and required improvements to meet regulatory
standards.
Methods: Initial data of these establishments was retrieved
from Food Inspection System to determine non-conformities.
Following data analysis, these establishments were visited to
establish root causes of non-conformities. A behavior-based
approach of inspection i.e. coaching, guidance, on job training.
regular meetings and frequent follow-ups were used which
resulted in gradual improvement in hygiene practices. After
achieving required level of compliance, establishments were
scheduled back to regular routine inspections.
Results: After implementing Happiness Inspections, evident
improvement was noticed in food safety standards at these
establishments. Sixty percent establishments have achieved
improved food safety scores within 9 months. Improved
establishments data was statistically analyzed (t-test) and a
significant improvement (p<0.05) was observed where food
safety standards i.e. cross contamination, cleaning&disinfection
and pest control showed considerable improvement. Next
routine inspection reports showed noticeable improvement in
grade & color cards issued to these establishments.
Significance: Through this coaching and guidance approach,
food safety culture has also been improved significantly inside
these establishments. This initiative also assisted regulatory
authorities in planning new specialized trainings to improve
regular inspection approach.
Speaker Biography
Sultan Ali Al Taher is the Head of Food Inspection Section in Dubai Municipality
Food Safety Department. He has been working in Dubai Municipality Food Safety
Department since April 1999. He has completed his Master degree in Food Safety
Management from Higher Colleges of Technology, Dubai, UAE. He did his Bachelor
of Public Health, Environmental Health Major from Griffith University, Gold Coast,
Australia. Sultan has participated in several local & international conferences (like
NEHA, IAFP, COld Chain Conference etc.) and meetings & food safety activities. He is
also an active member of IAFP & other international organization like IFST, NEHA, etc.
e:
Sultan Ali Al Taher, Food Safety 2018, Volume 2
DOI: 10.4066/2591-796X-C1-002