After lifting the lid on unsanitary practices in several food establishments along Mackey Street last week, the Department of Environmental Health conducted another round of impromptu health inspections in the East Bay Street area.
Chief Health Inspector Andrew Thompson said that a report should be filed on Monday on his team’s findings.
Companies found in violation of health rules will be given three weeks to remedy documented infractions, he said, noting that a lack of response from business owners can lead to a legal summons, and the infractions being brought to the “public’s knowledge.”
Minute inspections were made of such facilities
as rest rooms, vents above stoves and baking utilities, ceiling tiles, food preparation surfaces, water supply, ventilation, general cleanliness, and whether the establishment had a pest control contract.
Of the Mackey Street establishments inspected last week, several of which were found unsatisfactory, Health Ministry Parliamentary Secretary Ron Pinder said these did not include Wendy’s or Kentucky Fried Chicken.
“Those two eateries we have found to be very, very satisfactory during the inspections last week,” he said. “These were restaurants in particular, while one of them had very minor infractions, the other one was way above average in terms of its sanitary conditions.”
Mr. Pinder said the health department had received complaints from customers and employees of an East Bay Street restaurant, the name of which he would not disclose unless the health infractions remained uncorrected.
“These exercises are designed with the view to let the Bahamian public know that when they come across infractions that there is a recourse in the Department, specifically in the Health Inspectorate Division,” he said. “We are seeking to advise the public as well as change behaviour.”
However, with 22 inspectors and limited resources, inspections can take place only once a year, he said. He ruled out “undercover” due to the inspectors being known to the various establishments.
“It’s not enough,” he said. “We’re trying to get more resources so that we can do more than we would like. This is why we are trying to heighten the awareness of the Bahamian people and business owners so that they can police themselves.”
Next on the health inspectors’ list are roadside vendors, including “99οΎ’ Breakfast” stands, people who sell snack food items outside school campuses, meals from their cars, and road-side crab vendors.
There are provisions for entrepreneurs to obtain temporary health licences “to sell foods or items for holidays or events.”
By Khashan Poitier, The Nassau Guardian
