HACCP compliance procedures are now faster and simpler using a new automated solution developed jointly by Digitron and HaccpWorks. Integration of the two companies' technologies allows critical temperature data collected through Digitron's ThermaCheck and ThermaTrak electronic data capture systems to be imported into HaccpWorks software.
While Digitron provides temperature instrumentation expertise and data management solutions, HaccpWorks enables the online development, maintenance and management of customised HACCP plans, including full documentation, training and auditing resources.
The joint venture provides the first complete online solution, seamlessly integrating all the required ingredients and enabling the user to automate temperature control records.
The system is scalable to suit all company sizes, easily adapted for specialised needs and includes an extensive range of plan examples and recording forms.
Designed by practical users of HACCP systems the product is web based, allowing users and inspectors to monitor records at remote sites to ensure compliance and offering substantial productivity gains.
Digitron's ThermaCheck is used for monitoring food (contact) temperatures, while ThermaTrak is for tracking and storing (non-contact) temperature measurements in food storage areas. Used together, the two cover most food applications manufacture, storage, distribution, processing, preparation, catering, retail and service outlets.
ThermaCheck samples, validates and records data via a small, hand-held unit with an attached probe, eliminating paper based methods and providing a secure database. The data can be downloaded to a PC and analysed by product, location, process or user, using the software supplied.
ThermaCheck stores more than 10 000 readings, comprising product type, process/location, temperature reading and user. Temperature parameters and alarms can be set for each product and a corrective action feature is triggered whenever the measured temperature falls outside these limits.
ThermaTrak employs unique integrated RF wireless technology to monitor multiple locations automatically and electronically. Remote transponders measure, record and transmit temperature data via collecting antennae to an on-site base station or networked computer.
The transponder design eliminates the recording of misleading transient temperatures, typically those caused by doors left open for short periods, by adamping' the effect of the localised temperature change.
The system functions without cables, manual measurements and data storage and can be reconfigured at will and at no cost. Unlike information from other systems, the temperature data in ThermaTrak's transponder memory may be interrogated but not downloaded, ensuring an uncorrupted record is maintained.
Recording temperature data manually is error prone and labour intensive. The awesome penalties for non-compliance and the need to maintain an automated tamper-proof system as an effective legal defence against complainants mean that today amanual' means ahigh risk'.
Some certification authorities already insist on automated temperature monitoring systems: for EFSIS accreditation the user must also maintain records for five years. Capturing temperature data electronically and inputting data via a keyboard is undeniably cost effective even for small organisations. For large enterprises the return on investment may be measured in weeks rather than months, claims Digitron.
For more information, visit www.digitron.co.uk
