Getting ready for hazard analysis - the homework
Plain-language summary
Before analysing hazards, gather the facts: describe your products and ingredients, define intended use, and draw and verify accurate process flow diagrams.
What the clause is really asking
You cannot analyse hazards you do not understand. This clause covers the preliminary steps - assembling a multidisciplinary food-safety team, describing raw materials and finished products, defining intended use and the consumer (including vulnerable groups), and preparing process flow diagrams that are confirmed on site. It is the groundwork that makes the hazard analysis valid.
What auditors look for
Auditors check the flow diagrams against what actually happens on the floor - a diagram that omits a step or a rework loop undermines the whole study. They review product descriptions for completeness (allergens, pH, water activity, shelf life) and check intended use covers vulnerable consumers.
Typical evidence
Food-safety team composition; raw material and product descriptions; intended-use statements; signed-off process flow diagrams verified on site
How to comply — recommendations
Build a team with the right mix of production, hygiene, engineering and technical knowledge. Describe products and ingredients thoroughly - allergens, intrinsic factors, packaging, shelf life - and define who eats the product, including the vulnerable. Walk every flow diagram on the floor and have it signed as verified.
Common nonconformities
Flow diagram does not match the line; rework or packaging steps missing; intended use ignores vulnerable consumers; product descriptions missing allergen or intrinsic-factor data
Related clauses
ISO 22000 8.5.2; Codex HACCP preliminary steps
Qlause provides interpretive guidance only and is not a substitute for the standard. Refer to your licensed copy of the relevant standard for the authoritative text.