Food Safety Quality
Management System
Training Guide
SQF Code Module 11
SQF Code Certification Levels
The SQF Code is divided into three
certification levels.
Suppliers receive an SQF certificate for the
level of certification achieved.
1: Food Safety Fundamentals
2: HACCP Food Safety Plans
3: Quality Management Systems
SQF Code Certification Levels
Level 1 Food Safety Fundamentals:
Entry level for new and developing businesses
Level 2 Certified HACCP Based Food Safety Plans:
Incorporates all Level 1 system requirements and
additionally requires that a food safety risk analysis.
Level 3 Comprehensive Food Safety and Quality
Management System:
Incorporates all Level 1 and Level 2 elements and indicates
that a food quality risk analysis has been implemented.
Route to SQF Certification
1
• Learn about the SQF Code
2
• Select SQF Modules
3
• Register in SQF Assessment Database (Reliance)
4
• Designate an SQF Practitioner
5
• Select certification Level
6
• Document and Implement an SQF System
7
• Select a Certification Body
8
• Conduct a Pre-Assessment Audit
SQF Code for Food Manufacturing
Module 2: SQF
System
Elements
SQF
Code
Module 11:
Food Safety
Fundamentals
– Good
Manufacturing
Practices for
Processing of
Food Products
SQF Code Requirements
Module 11
11.1 Site Requirements and Approval
The location of premises, buildings,
operations and the land use must not affect
hygiene & food safety.
Any measures established to maintain a
suitable external environment should be
monitored and reviewed.
The premises and operations on site should
be approved by the relevant authority.
SQF Code Requirements
Module 11
11.2.10 Calibration
The methods and responsibility for the calibration of
measuring, test and inspection equipment used for
key monitoring activities must be documented and
implemented.
Calibrated equipment must be protected from damage
and unauthorized adjustment.
Equipment must be calibrated to national or international
reference standards.
SQF Code Requirements
Module 11
11.2.11 Management of Pests and Vermin
Pesticides and other toxic chemicals must be clearly
labeled, securely stored and handled and applied by
properly trained personnel with an understanding of
the hazards involved.
Pest control contractors must be approved and
qualified.
SQF Code Requirements
Module 11
11.3.11 First Aid
There should be first aid facilities to treat minor injuries and
arrangements provided when a patient requires more specialized
care.
SQF Code Requirements
Module 11
11.5.3 Water Delivery
The delivery of water within the premises must
ensure potable water is not contaminated.
Non-potable water must be controlled to prevent
cross contamination between potable and nonpotable water lines.
Non-potable water pipes should be clearly identified.
11.5.4 Water Treatment
Water treatment methods, equipment and materials
must ensure water receives an effective treatment.