In-Plant Video Monitoring Draft Guidelines Released

WASHINGTONUSDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is requesting public comment on draft guidelines to assist meat and poultry establishments strengthen humane handling and food safety operations by using in-plant video monitoring that were released Oct. 14.

Compliance Guidelines for Use of Video or Other Electronic Monitoring or Recording Equipment in Federally Inspected Establishments" aims to make firms aware that video or other electronic monitoring or recording equipment may be used in federally inspected establishments where meat and poultry are processed. Establishments may choose to use video or other electronic recording equipment for various purposes including ensuring that livestock are handled humanely, that good commercial practices are followed, monitoring product inventory, or conducting establishment security. Records from video or other electronic monitoring or recording equipment also can be used to meet FSIS' recordkeeping requirements.

FSIS is publishing the draft guide while pursuing Office of Management and Budget approval of its use under the federal Paperwork Reduction Act. Once FSIS receives OMB approval, it will issue the final guidelines. At that time, FSIS may make changes to the guidelines based on comments received on this draft guideline. Comments are due on or before Dec. 14, 2010. Electronic comments can be submitted at www.regulations.gov. Written comments can be sent to Docket Clerk, FSIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, George Washington Carver Center Room 2-217, 5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Beltsville, MD, 20705. All comments submitted must identify FSIS and the docket number FSIS-2010-0016.