TDH, GEH devised four goals. These four goals address how the funds requested fromannouncement RFA-FD-12-011 will be utilized in achieving conformance with TheVoluntary Retail Food Program Standards.During our self assessment of our current Retail Food Program, we found that portionsof the Standards had been met, however only Standard 7 was met in its entirety. Theother standards have not been met by our organization and require modification in orderto align with the Standards minimum requirements. The four goals address how ourorganization will achieve those Standards.The first goal addresses Standard 2. We found that our current training programrequires some modifications to obtain Standard 2. Attainment of Standard 2 is ourhighest priority. It is essential to this organization and the population it serves, to have ahighly qualified workforce. Therefore, the majority of award funding in the first twoyears will be utilized to implement Standard 2. The second goal is to increase efforts ofthe organization to improve upon and implement policies and procedures to ensureconformance with the remaining Standards. The third goal addresses establishing andmaintaining key stakeholder relationships, including industry consumer groups,academia, and governmental agencies. The final goal addresses program monitoringand reporting.Purpose of Standard 2 implementation: The intent is to develop a skilled staff that isable to conduct proper inspections.
Application: RFA-FD-12-011 Advancing Conformance with the Voluntary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards TDH/GEH Project Narrative Proper training and use of Standard 2 will provide our Environmentalists the necessary skill set to conduct risk-based inspections with a priority on foodborne illness prevention. They will be able to use this training to educate the establishments so retail food service operators will be better informed of causes of foodbone illnesses and preventative measures. By working together with the establishment owners, the citizens and those visiting Tennessee will be better protected.
