Saint Martin’s Hospital in Odd Down, Bath, was recently awarded a one-star hygiene rating following an inspection in February. The low rating primarily stemmed from a staff member’s inability to access crucial digital food safety records, rather than from poor hygiene practices.
While the hospital’s food handling and cleanliness of its facilities were deemed generally satisfactory, inspectors identified significant shortcomings in the management of food safety. This category evaluates the effectiveness of systems designed to maintain food safety, the staff’s knowledge of safety protocols, and the food safety officer’s confidence in ongoing compliance.
A spokesperson for HCRG Care Group emphasized their commitment to food hygiene, stating, “The inspection found food handling and environmental cleanliness to be generally satisfactory. However, the documentation of food safety procedures was hindered because the team on duty could not access key digital records.”
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In response, the hospital has expanded digital access to these records among the staff, ensuring that critical information is now readily available. This change is expected to be reviewed during the upcoming reinspection scheduled in the near future.
Food hygiene ratings range from zero (urgent improvement required) to five (very good). Saint Martin’s current rating indicates that major improvements were necessary, but the hospital is actively addressing the concerns raised.