‘Dirty’ takeaway had microwave perched on sink draining board posing electrocution risk
An Indian takeaway in Redcar was dirty and the location of a microwave posed an electrocution risk, an inspection found.
The inspection of Seaside Tandoori, in Lord Street, Redcar, resulted in a ‘major improvement required’ notice being issued with the business scoring a grade 1 on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) sliding scale – 5 being excellent.
The microwave had been placed on a piece of wood on top of a draining board and was “moved immediately” to prevent splashes from a sink – posing the risk of electrocution, the report said.
A letter issued by a food hygiene inspector employed by Redcar and Cleveland Council and seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said the floor throughout had been dirty on the day of the inspection and the standard of cleaning generally was insufficient.
Dirty areas extended to sinks and basins; door seals and handles of fridges and freezers; light switches; oven range controls and the walls, floors and ceiling of the staff toilet.
Meanwhile, a wash basin meant for handwashing was obstructed by equipment and high risk food contact surfaces were not being adequately cleaned.
On the use of cloths, the inspector wrote: “Staff indicated that the same cloths were being used for the cleaning of raw and ready to eat contact surfaces, presenting the risk of contamination.
“Cloths must be kept clean, disinfected and replaced regularly (although it is more hygienic to use disposable cloths). It is important that separate cloths are used for the cleaning of raw and ready to eat food equipment to prevent contamination.”
The inspector noted the premises were in structural disrepair, including holes in the ceiling and walls that were damaged, exposing bare plaster. The inspector also said that there had been a lack of documented food safety management procedures and current monitoring records.
No contraventions were identified regarding provision of allergen information to customers, or the description given to food being sold. A representative for the takeaway said improvements had been made with a view to obtaining a re-rating.