seamless surface that enables optimal cleaning, it also serves to
protect the concrete substrate from the risk of damage. Each type
of production facility has specific requirements to meet. A custom
formulated epoxy or urethane mortar flooring system designed for
meat and poultry processing, wine and beer production, or any
other food or beverage operation can help solve a range of issues
for facility managers.
Sanitation Performance Standards
The standards imposed on the food and beverage production
industries were built around the concept that each establishment
must be operated and maintained to avoid the development of
unsanitary conditions that could lead to possible contamination of
the product and danger to the health of consumers. A liquid-applied
cementitious urethane or other flooring system can help simplify
the cleaning procedures of the plant or manufacturing facility, as it
can be highly durable, monolithic, virtually seamless and created to
meet the demands of each specific production area.
Wet processing areas and floors requiring wet-cleaning
procedures should be fully watertight and in good condition without
the surface cracks, crevices or pits that can allow biological
materials and moisture to enter the floor, leading to possible
microbial growth. Ninety-degree junctures at floors and walls can
be coved to avoid the risks associated with the collection of dirt,
debris and other substances.
The appropriate floor coating system will vary based upon the
products being produced at the facility and the recommendations
of various federal and local regulatory agencies. Specific coatings,
whether urethane, epoxy or methyl methacrylate (MMA), are options
for production areas with specific demands such as resistance to
heat, extreme temperature cycling or heavy loads. The resinous
flooring systems used in any food and beverage operation should
help meet or exceed the regulatory recommendations.
For floor installation or refurbishment, it is advised that facility
managers work closely with a liquid-applied flooring manufacturer
possessing a proven history of successful applications in the food
and beverage industry, and who can specify the appropriate floor
coating systems for each production area in compliance with all
regulatory recommendations.
Kendall Youngworth is a Senior Marketing Specialist at Tennant
Coatings.
An inspection from the USDA Food
Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
or another governmental agency that
uncovers cracks, breaches, pits or
damaged areas in a flooring system
can result in a vital production area
being tagged or rejected.
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