Food Safety Inspections and Scores on the Doors

There is a wide range of excellent eating places in Bracknell Forest. We carry out regular inspections of all food premises ranging from the individual trader to large multinationals.

'Scores on the Doors' inspection results

Visit the Scores on the Doors website to find out more about food hygiene standards of eateries and food companies in Bracknell Forest - the better the standards, the higher the number of stars given with 5 stars being the highest.

Launch of the 'Scores on the Doors' scheme

We have launched a Scores on the Doors scheme for the food businesses in Bracknell Forest. This scheme allows you to see the results of the last food hygiene inspection as a star rating.

Currently the Freedom of Information Act 2000 Act gives the right to request information on inspections of all food premises and access to any reports that were sent. Scores on the Doors allows easy access to information you are legally entitled to see.

Aims of the 'Scores on the Doors' scheme

We hope the scheme will drive up standards of food safety and give you the opportunity to make an informed choice about where to eat or buy food based on hygiene standards.

The star rating is based on the scores for hygiene, structure and confidence in management because they are under the direct control of the food business operator.

How are food safety standards rated?

The better the standards of food safety the higher the number of stars given. This ranges from 5 stars (excellent) to 0 stars (very poor). More information about the scoring system is available on the Scores on the Doors website.

top

Why are inspections carried out?

To ensure that food is being handled and produced hygienically
To ensure that food is safe to eat
To look at the potential risk of food poisoning as a result of food contamination
To ensure that food handling staff are trained in food hygiene
To inspect the condition of the premises and equipment
To ensure there are precautions to prevent pest infestation
To ensure that staff are aware of the importance of personal hygiene

In addition to our regular inspections, we also respond to complaints from the public relating to food safety issues such as:

People smoking in kitchens
Poor levels of cleanliness
Handling practices
Foreign matter in food

top

What powers do environmental health officers possess?

Officers have a right to enter and inspect premises at all reasonable hours. They do not have to make an appointment and will usually visit without advance notice. They will look at the way the business is operated, identify potential hazards and make sure it complies with the law. They discuss any problems and advise on possible solutions. If it is necessary to protect the public, they can also:

Take samples and photographs and inspect records
Detain or seize suspect food
Serve improvement notices where breaches of the law are identified
Carry out a prosecution if the case is serious
Where there is an imminent risk, serve an emergency prohibition notice which forbids the use of the premises or equipment.