Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 combined
Renfrewshire Council · 18 August 2026
Back to Communities and Housing Policy Board — 18 August 2026 and its agenda
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/2027 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Renfrewshire Council is required by Food Standards Scotland (FSS) to produce a Service Plan to provide detail on the work being undertaken in Food Law across Renfrewshire Council. 1.2 The Business Regulation Team within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure undertakes this for Renfrewshire Council and they also lead on workplace health and safety and other areas of Environmental Health work which are included within the plan. 1.3 The Service Plan sets out the objectives, work which is undertaken, service delivery, resources and quality assurance. 1.4 The Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/27 is attached to this report as an appendix. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approves the Business Regulation Service Plan 2026/27. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 Business Regulation forms part of the Climate, Public Protection and Roads Service within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure.
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PUBLIC 3.2 The team provides an effective regulatory service for food law, and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, ensuring the Council’s statutory responsibilities are met. The objective of the service is to improve the quality and effectiveness of these regulatory activities, and in doing so, ensure public health and safety are maintained. 3.3 In terms of food law enforcement, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory food authority under the Food Safety Act 1990 for all food businesses within Renfrewshire. The Council is also an enforcing authority in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, within certain types of premises within Renfrewshire. This is determined by the main activity undertaken at the premises, as defined in the Health and Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. 3.4 Section 18 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 puts a duty on the HSE and Local Authorities (LAs), as Enforcing Authorities, to make adequate arrangements for enforcement. The Section 18 Standard sets out the arrangements that LAs and HSE’s Field Operation Directorate should put in place to meet this duty. 3.5 The Business Plan 2026/27 highlights the work undertaken by the Business Regulation Team over the previous year, the current position with regards to numbers and types of premises (as of 1 April 2026) and the planned work for the coming 12 months. 3.6 Overall, Food Law and Health & Safety Performance within the Business Regulation Team remained high during the period (1/4/25 to 31/3/26). Work included; 102 in-depth Health & Safety Interventions carried out within a range of businesses and 1467 Food Law interventions. 598 of these Food Law interventions were required to be carried out within 28 days as specified in the Food Law code of practice. Of these 91.5% (548) of these interventions were completed within the specified timeframe. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – none 2. HR & Organisational Development - none 3. Community Planning Renfrewshire is safe – By implementing the attached Service Plan, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure will ensure that food prepared and consumed in Renfrewshire is safe and that workplace Health & Safety is regulated. 4. Legal – none 5. Property/Assets - none
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PUBLIC 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report 8. Health & Safety - Where staff are required to visit premises, all risk assessments and safe working procedures have been developed. 9. Procurement - none 10. Risk - none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate Risk - none 13. Children’s Rights – none 14. CoSLA Policy Position – none ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers None ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Rachael Flanagan, Lead Officer - Environmental Health e-mail: rachael.flanagan@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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1 PUBLIC Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 Environment, Housing and Infrastructure
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2 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Contents 1. Service Aims and Objectives .................................................................................. 5 1.1. Aims and Objectives .............................................................................. 5 1.2. Links to Corporate Objectives and Plans .............................................. 5 1.3. Overview ................................................................................................ 6 2. Background ........................................................................................................... 7 2.1. Organisational Structure ....................................................................... 7 2.1.1. Role of Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads ... 7 2.1.2. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ................................................. 7 2.2. Scope of the Service .............................................................................. 8 2.3. Demands on the Service ........................................................................ 9 2.4. Performance Management .................................................................. 13 2.5. Enforcement Policy & Procedures ....................................................... 13 3. Service Delivery .................................................................................................... 15 3.1. Food and Health & Safety Premises Inspections ................................. 15 3.2. Food and Health and Safety Service Requests ................................... 18 3.3. Investigation of Accidents ................................................................... 21 3.4. Enforcement Management Model (EMM) ............................................ 21 3.5. Home Authority Principle & Primary Authority Scheme ...................... 21 3.6. Advice to Business ............................................................................... 23
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3 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.7. FHIS & EatSafe ..................................................................................... 23 3.8. Sampling ............................................................................................. 24 3.9. Control and Investigation of Outbreaks and Food Related Infectious Diseases ........................................................................................................... 24 3.10. Food Incidents ..................................................................................... 25 3.11. Health and Safety Interventions .......................................................... 25 3.12. Liaison with Other Organisations ........................................................ 26 3.13. Work Related Death Protocol .............................................................. 27 4. Resources ............................................................................................................. 28 4.1. Financial Allocation ............................................................................. 28 4.2. Staffing Allocation ............................................................................... 28 4.2.1. Staff development ................................................................................... 29 4.3. Employee Development Plan .............................................................. 30 5. Quality Assessment .............................................................................................. 31 5.1. Quality Assessment & Internal Monitoring .......................................... 31 6. REVIEW 2025-26 ................................................................................................... 32 6.1. Review of Food Law Activity ................................................................ 32 6.2. Review of Sampling activity ................................................................. 34 6.3. Review of Health and Safety activity ................................................... 35 6.4. Areas for Improvement ........................................................................ 35 7. Emerging Issues 2026/27 ..................................................................................... 36
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4 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8. Appendix 1 – Food Sampling Programme 2026/27 ............................................. 37 8.1. Introduction......................................................................................... 37 8.2. Approach to Sampling ......................................................................... 37 8.2.1. Informal Samples ..................................................................................... 37 8.2.2. Formal Samples ....................................................................................... 38 8.3. Sampling Priorities .............................................................................. 38 8.4. Manufacturing/Approved Premises .................................................... 38 8.5. Complaints and Food Borne Disease Investigations .......................... 38 8.6. Co-ordinated Sampling ....................................................................... 38 8.7. Imported Food .................................................................................... 39 8.8. Special Investigations .......................................................................... 39 8.9. Sampling Priority Actions .................................................................... 39 8.10. Routine Sampling ................................................................................ 40 9. Appendix 2 -Structure .......................................................................................... 41
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5 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 1. Service Aims and Objectives 1.1. Aims and Objectives The Food and Health & Safety Service is delivered by the Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team. This team forms part of the Climate, Public Protection and Roads Service within Environment, Housing and Infrastructure. The aim is to provide an effective regulatory service for food law, and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council, ensuring the Council’s statutory responsibilities are met. The objective of the Service is to improve the quality and effectiveness of these regulatory activities, and in doing so, ensure public health and safety are maintained. In order to achieve this aim, Environment, Housing and Infrastructure will: Apply the relevant legislation at premises regulated by the Local Authority in line with the Scottish Regulators Code of Practice, Work in partnership with agencies such as Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to achieve nationally agreed strategic aims, Ensure that all staff undertaking enforcement activity are properly qualified and competent to undertake their duties, Operate a risk based approach to inspection and regulation, Carry out a programme of specific, targeted and appropriate interventions in order to improve food safety, quality and health & safety standards, Work with local businesses in an open and transparent manner, Investigate and take appropriate action upon receipt of accident notifications, service requests, food borne infection notifications and complaints. 1.2. Links to Corporate Objectives and Plans The Environmental Health, Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-27 contributes to Climate, Public Protection and Roads outcomes as well as Renfrewshire Council’s Corporate Objectives and Plans. In particular, the Service has a critical role to play in supporting sustainable economic development, ensuring the health and safety of the
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6 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC public, addressing the impact of poverty and the protection of both the public and legitimate businesses from criminal activities. 1.3. Overview In terms of food law enforcement, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory Food Authority under the Food Safety Act 1990 for all food businesses within Renfrewshire. The Council is also an Enforcing Authority in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The Service is the enforcing authority for health & safety legislation in certain types of premises within Renfrewshire. This is determined by the main activity being undertaken at the premises as laid down in the Health and Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. Section 18 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 puts a duty on the Health & Safety Executive ( HSE) and Local Authorities (LAs), as Enforcing Authorities, to make adequate arrangements for enforcement. The Section 18 Standard sets out the arrangements that LAs and HSE’s Field Operation Directorate should put in place to meet this duty.
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7 PUBLIC 2. Background 2.1. Organisational Structure The Food Safety and Health & Safety service is delivered by suitably qualified officers within the Business Regulation Team operating in Environment, Housing and Infrastructure as part of Climate, Public Protection and Roads (Appendix 2). 2.1.1. Role of Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads Public Protection within Climate, Public Protection and Roads, consists of the Business Regulation, Community Safety, Environmental Improvements and Trading Standards teams. Their combined role is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the local community and to safeguard public health, the quality of the local environment and to enhance economic, social and environmental welfare by improving and maintaining standards of fair trading in terms of safety, quality, quantity and price. 2.1.2. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure The Service is based at: Climate, Public Protection and Roads Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR The Service can be contacted by: email: b-serv.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk, or phone: 0300 300 0300
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8 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 2.2. Scope of the Service The main role of Business Regulation Service is to undertake regulatory functions of relevant legislation in terms of food law and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council. The aim is to secure compliance with the standards laid down in primary legislation, associated regulations and codes of practice. The key activities of Business Regulation Service are based on the implementation of inspection/intervention, survey and sampling programmes and other appropriate monitoring and investigative activities, including responding to, and learning from food complaints, accidents and incidents at work. Under Section 5 of the Food Safety Act 1990, Renfrewshire Council is a statutory food authority, responsible for delivery of official controls under the Act and associated regulations. Statutory appointments of Head of Food Service and Lead Officer for Food Safety are detailed in the Council’s Scheme of Delegated Functions. Enforcement of the legislation, under Section 6 of the Food Safety Act 1990, includes food hygiene and food standards covering the safety, quality, presentation and labelling of food. To this end, a programme of food business inspections and the surveillance of food is carried out by co-ordinated food sampling and a food standards inspection programme. Food and premises hygiene complaints are investigated where required. The investigation and control of food-borne infections within food premises is carried out in conjunction with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The Service acts as the originating authority to those large-scale food manufacturers within the area, co-ordinating and assisting in complaints and enquiries from other food authorities within the UK and third countries. As an enforcing authority, the Service also has responsibility for the provision of health & safety enforcement services in a range of business activities covering approximately 2500 premises and an estimated 10,000 employees. The enforcement of health & safety legislation is split between the Local Authority (Renfrewshire Council) and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), depending on the main activity being undertaken at the premises as laid down in the Health & Safety (Enforcing Authority) Regulations 1998. The HSE are responsible for the more traditional “factory” or industrial premises. The premises within the remit of the Council include offices, shops, warehouses, leisure, hotel and catering premises.
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9 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The principal activities of the service, outlined above, have relevance to the Planning, Building Standards, Civic Licensing and Alcohol Licensing services of the Council. The Service also delivers official controls in relation to food law in all Renfrewshire Council food operations. The Service provides advice and guidance to all businesses to ensure compliance with statutory requirements. The 2026/27 Business Regulation Service plan provides data and information for the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. All information and data figures are correct as of 1 April 2026. 2.3. Demands on the Service Table 1: Profile of food businesses in Renfrewshire Premises Number Caring Establishment 143 Hotels and Guest Houses 26 Mobile Traders 44 Primary Food Producers 6 Pubs/Clubs 145 Restaurant/ Caterer 399 Takeaway Premises 202 Retail 340 Schools and Colleges 84 Manufacturers and Packers 46 Importers/Exporters 8 Distributors/Transporters 24 TOTAL 1467
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10 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 2: Profile of Businesses for Health & Safety Enforcement Premises Number Retail 779 Wholesale 124 Offices 321 Catering 541 Hotels etc 25 Residential Care 18 Leisure 195 Consumer Services 421 Others 68 Total 2492 The Food and Health & Safety Services provided by Renfrewshire Council operate solely from Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1BR. The Service’s standard working day is 8.45am - 4.45pm Monday to Thursday, and 8.45am - 3.55pm on Friday, with an out of hour’s service also being provided in cases of emergency. Officers operate a hybrid model where they are operating from home, in the office and in the field e.g. inspecting premises and investigating incidents. The Service works in a number of complex areas, which include: Glasgow International Airport As Glasgow International Airport lies within the Authority, this adds further elements of work to the Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team. Consignments of food, particularly fruit and vegetables come through Glasgow Airport from third Countries. These foods are subject to controls administered by Environmental Health, Business Regulation. The Service is also involved in the surveillance of exports from the airport and provides export certificates to those businesses exporting foodstuffs from Renfrewshire. The Business Regulation Team provides a port health role at the airport. Renfrewshire Port Health Authority was originally set up with the primary objective of preventing dangerous epidemic diseases entering the country. Although this can still occur, if a person is patently unwell, this function is now more realistically aimed at contacting and monitoring persons
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11 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC who may be carrying a communicable disease and preventing further cases arising from environmental contamination of aircraft. There are also currently two businesses which operate flight catering within the airport estate and these are subject to inspection by the service. Environmental Health Officers operate a duty rota, with one officer allocated for each day of the working week. The officer carries out all imported food functions at the airport on his/her allocated day. An emergency call out service is in place to deal with port health incidents outwith normal working hours and is available on a 24hour, 365 day basis. Communication and Language The Council area has several food businesses operating for whom English is not a first language. This can introduce communication challenges during the course of inspection and enforcement visits. To address this issue, information leaflets translated into other languages have been produced. A translation service is available to officers if required during inspections and other meetings. Council Operated Food Businesses The control of food enforcement in Local Authority catering operations provided by Facilities and Property Services is a complex and sensitive area of work. These premises include catering in residential establishments such as those run by the Council’s Social Work Services as well as schools and nurseries. The Service employs the same approach to enforcement in these premises as it does within any other food business premises. Approved/Authorised Premises There are 12 approved and 2 authorised businesses operating within Renfrewshire, all of which are approved/authorised under Regulation (EC) 853/2004. These are: DNATA Airline Catering Arran Avenue, Paisley, PA3 2AY Gate Gourmet Airline catering Campsie Drive, Paisley, PA2 8DP Gormac Foods Sandyford Road, Paisley, PA3 3HP CFPU RAH Hospital Corsebar Road, Paisley, PA2 9PJ Scottish Leather Group Seedhil Road, Paisley, PA1 1JL Scottish Leather Group Baltic Works, Bridge of Weir Gleddoch Family Butchers Glasgow Road, Paisley, PA1 3PW
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12 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC J R Pearson (Glasgow LTD) Lomond Cold Store Blackstoun Road, Paisley, PA3 3AF Rice 'n’ Spicy Eddison street, Hillington, G524JW Muirhead Foods Ltd Lomond Coldstore, Blackstoun Road, Paisley, M J Stark LTD Sandyford Abbatoir, Sandyford Road, Paisley, PA3 4HP Bidfood Glasgow 30 Bramwell Street, Paisley, PA3 2EU UHU Scotland Limited 1B Lyon Road, Linwood Industrial Estate, Paisley, PA3 3BQ Hebridean Shellfish Ltd Unit 10 Mossedge Industrial Estate, PA3 3HR Events A significant number of events are held throughout Renfrewshire on an annual basis, particularly, but not exclusively, during the summer months. These events require a food law enforcement presence in response to the level of external food retailers and caterers providing food for the large number of visitors and this can result in a minor short-term impact on the food service. The Service also works closely with Renfrewshire Council’s Events Team. Health & Safety Enforcement The review of Health & Safety enforcement activities by the UK Government has influenced the approach in this area. HSE priority planning guidance directs the work of local authorities in relation to Health & Safety, with an emphasis on targeting resources on higher risk activities and reducing the number of routine inspections. An intervention plan based on this guidance has been developed which takes into account local conditions and priorities. Enforcement within Arm’s Length Organisations – OneRen Health & Safety enforcement in arm’s length organisations connected with Renfrewshire Council presents a challenge to the Local Authority. In 2019, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advised Renfrewshire Council that enforcement within Council owned leisure facilities operated by arm’s length organisations is, in accordance with The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the responsibility of the Local Authority.
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13 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC This presents significant challenges and burdens as there are close relationships between the Council and OneRen including the corporate control as the Council is the sole shareholder of the company. The Council does not have outright control of OneRen, as the charity has an independent board of directors, but it does have the right to appoint and remove some of the directors. As a result, strategic decisions affecting the operation of OneRen are at the very least influenced, and could (in some instances) be directed, by the Council. Further to this, staff from Renfrewshire Council Facilities and Property Services may be involved in the maintenance of buildings and installations. The buildings and assets themselves are still within the ownership of the Council and although the liabilities rest with OneRen, should an incident/accident occur this could cause a further conflict of interest. In a similar way, the Council also is responsible for enforcing food law regulations in Council operated kitchen facilities such as schools and care facilities. 2.4. Performance Management Through this Service Plan, Elected Members receive annual performance information relating to key areas of service provision, including food safety and health & safety enforcement, with managers reviewing performance data provided within the Microsoft Power Bi application monthly. Certificates of Compliance and Enforcement Notices are reported to Elected Members via the Regulatory Functions Board and Information Bulletin reports. Performance reviews are carried out on a six-monthly basis with staff involved in food safety and health & safety enforcement, to maintain performance. 2.5. Enforcement Policy & Procedures An Integrated Enforcement Policy is in place to ensure the consistency of enforcement across all areas of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure. The Policy sets standards clearly outlining the level of service which the public and businesses can expect to receive. It encourages fair and open regulation and commits the Service to ensuring our enforcement service works with businesses to assist them in complying with the law.
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14 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Information Systems Premises records are held on the Authority Public Protection (APP) system, which is used to manage the inspection programme and record details of inspections, accidents, complaints and enquiries. The database is regularly reviewed and updated to facilitate the planning of inspection programmes and production of management reports. Files were digitised and moved to SharePoint in 2022, and in April 2025 tablets were introduced to Business Regulation team. This allows Officers to use digital forms which are then uploaded to SharePoint directly. This has improved efficiency in the team, reduced paper waste and reduced support required from Business Support Services. It has also improved document control and data protection. In 2025/26 Power Automate has also been used within Business Regulation to streamline and better manage processes. This has also reduced time spent by officers on administrative tasks. The Service plans to continue reviewing and improve processes in 2026/27. Progress towards local, regional and national outcomes is monitored monthly using the reporting functions of the system. Statutory returns are made using data from the APP system. All information in relation to food premises, complaints and inspections are uploaded to FSS Scottish National database weekly to give FSS oversight of this data.
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15 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3. Service Delivery 3.1. Food and Health & Safety Premises Inspections In accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland), all food premises are risk- assessed for food law. Risk assessments are entered in the services database, which generates a target inspection date. A report is generated from the database of visits due for each officer. The Service undertakes a full inspection programme based on the risk category of premises. Regulatory activity in relation to Health and Safety at Work is determined in accordance with the HSE priority planning guidance. The tables below illustrate the number of premises in Renfrewshire in each risk category for Food Law and Health & Safety. Table 3 - Total premises (Food Law) with Group & Rating as of 1 April 2026 GROUP RATING NUMBER 1 A 22 1 B 13 1 C 5 1 D 0 1 E 0 TOTAL 40 GROUP RATING NUMBER 2 A 318 2 B 281 2 C 247 2 D 23 2 E 1 TOTAL 870 GROUP RATING NUMBER 3 A 87 3 B 389 3 C 58 3 D 1 3 E 0 TOTAL 536
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16 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 4: Premises per group Rating Category Group Number of Premises 1 24 2 870 3 536 Food Standards Only 5 Approved/Authorised 16 Farms 8 Sub Total 1459 Unrated 231 Total 1482 The food law risk rating of a food business is based on a number of elements. Hygiene, structure, food safety management and food standards are assessed to determine the risk posed by an establishment and the frequency of intervention by the local authority. These are numerically scored and used to derive the rating that is presented as the 'score', A-E; Category E posing the highest risk. The grouping of the premises is based on the type of foods handled and produced, for example group 1s include exporters and manufacturers, group 3s include retailers and childminders. Table 5: Profile by Health & Safety risk category Risk Category Total number in category A 5 B1 37 B2 716 C 1322 Unrated 7411 Total 2821 1 Unrated premises have not yet been risk rated (new businesses)
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17 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The tables below illustrate the number of inspections programmed for 2026/27 in each risk category for food law. A total of 784 food law programmed interventions are projected for the 12 months commencing 1 April 2026. Table 6: Food Law Programmed Interventions for 2026/2027 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 1 A 11 18 months 1 B 13 12 months 1 C 5 6 months 1 D 0 3 months 1 E 0 1 month TOTAL 29 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 2 A 150 24 months 2 B 173 18 months 2 C 238 12 months 2 D 21 3 months 2 E 0 1 month TOTAL 582 GROUP RATING NUMBER Frequency 3 A 10 No proactive inspections 3 B 128 36 months 3 C 35 24 months 3 D 0 3 months 3 E 0 1 month TOTAL 173
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18 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC The inspection programme for 2026/27 has been developed to comply fully with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and LAC Circular 67/2 Setting Local Authority Priorities and Targeting Interventions. So far as the inspection of premises outwith normal working hours is concerned, our policy is to ensure that, where premises are only open outwith normal hours, then appropriate provision is made for them to be visited in accordance with at least the minimum number of visits determined by their risk rating. In 2025/26, in consultation with Food Standards Scotland (FSS), and due to the staffing levels, the team temporarily deferred a small number of inspections for group 2 premises. There premises were carefully risk assessed and identified as low risk, with a strong track record of compliance. As staffing levels improved slightly by the end of 2025/26 these deferred inspections were all able to be carried out and were completed by 22nd April 2026. Group 3 premises inspections have been completed using an alternative enforcement approach. These businesses are the lowest risk grouping (generally handling prepacked foods or limited open handling), however when it is identified that there are either changes to foods handled or the Food Business Operator, a full inspection is carried out. 3.2. Food and Health and Safety Service Requests Complaints and Service Requests are dealt with either by the duty Environmental Health Officer or the officer responsible for the premises which are the subject of the complaint/request. All service requests are logged in the APP database against the premises concerned. The service has documented policies relating to the investigation and handling of complaints and service requests which ensure that all complaints are investigated in accordance with the appropriate code of practice. All complaints are recorded and their risk evaluated to distinguish between those which require an on-site investigation and others which may be resolved by telephone or written advice. The numbers of complaints and service requests are detailed by category, for 2025/26 is shown in the table below: Table 7 – Food Complaints and Service Requests 2025/2026 Service Request Category 2025/2026 Advice to Consumer 20 Advice to Business 155 Food Hygiene Complaint 96
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19 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Food premises Complaint 51 Food Standards Complaint 52 Section 50 Certificate applications 24 Building warrant/Planning consultation 5 Licensing Consultation 32 Imported Food 2 Export Certificate 9 New Food Business Advice 247 other 21 Total 714 Chart 1- Summary of Complaints and Service Requests for Food
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20 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 8- Health and Safety Complaints and Service Requests 2025/26 Service Request Category 2025/26 Leisure 4 Consumer 4 Retail 1 Catering 4 Hotel 3 Offices 2 Licensing 201 Wholesale 2 Other 6 TOTAL 229 Chart 2- Summary of Complaints and Service Requests for Health and Safety
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21 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.3. Investigation of Accidents A procedure is in place for the investigation of notified accidents designed to ensure consistency and quality of the accident investigation service. It is not possible or appropriate to investigate all incidents, and a systematic approach has been adopted to ensure that the more serious incidents are investigated. 3.4. Enforcement Management Model (EMM) The Guidance in the LAC22/18 along with detailed guidance that was issued for use by Environmental Health Officers is used to promote consistency of enforcement between individual officers, LAs and the HSE. All officers in the team have been trained in the use of the Enforcement Management Model. The model is used by officers when considering the most appropriate action to take in more complex situations which are occasionally encountered, including serious accident investigations. It is also used as a monitoring tool by the Senior EHO and Lead Officer- Environmental Health. 3.5. Home Authority Principle & Primary Authority Scheme For companies operating under two or more local council jurisdictions, Primary Authority provides reliable and consistent regulatory advice from a single source when dealing with key aspects of environmental health, trading standards and licensing services. Renfrewshire Council currently has no partnerships in relation to health & safety advice and enforcement. The Primary/Home Authority principle is applied when dealing with food complaint investigations and routinely in relation to food standards and labelling issues. It is considered to be an aid to good enforcement practice. The Council has no formal agreements in place to act as a Home Authority with any specific business, but has listed the following significant establishments as ones which are considered as Home Authority/Originating Authority premises:
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22 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Table 9- Originating Authority Businesses A&A Bakers Moss Road Linwood PA3 3HR DNATA Arran Avenue Paisley PA3 2AY AP Jess Sandyford Road Paisley PA3 4HP Aulds Delicious Desserts Barnsford Avenue Inchinnan PA4 9RG Bidfood Barnwell Street Renfrew PA3 2EU Big Bear Bakery 15 Edison Street Hillington Park G52 4JW Buon Giorno 11A Queen Street Renfrew PA4 8TR Davidson Butcher Mossedge Paisley PA3 3HR Diageo Global Supply 1 Argyll Avenue Renfrew PA4 9EA Diageo Global Supply 500 Renfrew Road Renfrew G51 4SP Filshill Westway Renfrew PA4 8DJ G Porrelli & Co Ltd 25 Lacy Street Paisley PA1 1QN G&A McHarg Dalziel Road Hillington Park G52 4NN Gate Gourmet Glasgow Airport Paisley PA2 8DP Gleddoch Family Butchers 60 Glasgow Road Paisley PA1 13W Hannah's of Johnstone 18-20 Walkinshaw Street Johnstone PA5 8AB Henderson Meats Hillington Glasgow PA8 6BS Ingram Brothers 15 East Lane Paisley PA1 1QA Jenier Limited Earl Haig Road Hillington G52 4JU John Scott Meats Sandyford Paisley PA3 3HR Kismet Lyon Road Linwood PA3 3BQ Kerry Foods (UK) Ltd) 55-59 Kelvin Avenue Hillington Park G52 4LT MacSpice/McAusland Crawford 79/81 Abercorn Street Paisley PA3 4AS Scottish Leather Ltd Kilbarchan Road Bridge Of Weir PA11 3RL Rice 'n' Spicy 15 Edison Street Hillington Park G52 4JW Sutherland Cakes 15-17 Earl Haig Road Hillington G52 5JU Glasgow Distillery Company Deanside Road Renfrew G52 4XB The Elderslie Scottish Tablet Co 37 Glenpatrick Road Elderslie PA5 9AE W P Tulloch 22a Skye Crescent Paisley PA2 8EL Rise and Grind Roastery 104 Abercorn Street Paisley PA34AY
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23 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.6. Advice to Business The Environmental Health, Business Regulation Team undertakes an on-going advisory role to all businesses in Renfrewshire. A range of information and promotional material is made available for businesses by Environmental Health Officers during visits. 3.7. FHIS & EatSafe The Food Hygiene Information Scheme continues to operate in Renfrewshire with around 1300 food premises who sell food to the public being included within the scope of the scheme. Currently 98% of premises within Renfrewshire have a pass certificate. There are 12 premises with Eat Safe Awards within Renfrewshire. This is the highest award in the scheme. These are: Table 10 -Eat Safe Award Recipients Premises Name Premises Address Accord Hospice Morton Avenue, Paisley, PA2 7BW Mosswood Care Home Moss Road, Linwood, PA3 3FA Capability Scotland Wallace Court, 191 Main Road, Elderslie, PA5 9EJ Erskine mains Care Home Meadow drive, Erskine, PA8 7ED Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association Newton Court 23 Maree Road, Paisley, PA2 9DH Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association, Ailsa Court 23 Walkinshaw Street, Johnstone, PA5 8AF Hanover(Scotland) Housing Association Orchard Court "Orchard Court", Orchard Street, Renfrew, PA4 8RZ Hanover (Scotland) Housing Association, Walkinshaw Court Walkinshaw street, Johnstone, PA5 8AF Kibble Education & Care Centre Goudie Street, Paisley, PA3 2LG Holiday Inn Caledonia Way, Glasgow Airport PA3 2TE Cochrane Care Home Quarrelton Road, Johnstone, PA5 8LQ Rashilee Care Home Little Inch, 8 Rashilee Avenue, Erskine, PA8 6HA
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24 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.8. Sampling Renfrewshire Council, along with nine other local authorities have a Service Level Agreement with Glasgow City Council for the provision of analytical services. The analyst service is provided by Glasgow Scientific Services, Colston Laboratory, 64 Everard Drive, Glasgow G21 1XG. Glasgow Scientific Services are this authority’s appointed Public Analyst for chemical analyses of all food samples, Food Examiner for all microbiological examination of food samples and Agricultural Analyst for all feeding stuffs samples taken. The sampling programme for 2026/27 is attached as Appendix 1 to this Service Plan. The programme will focus on high-risk premises in Renfrewshire, whilst reflecting national priorities recommended by FSS and the Scottish Food enforcement Liaison Committee (SFELC). Food sampling will also be undertaken at Glasgow International Airport to monitor the quality, composition and labelling of foods imported through the airport as part of the Service’s imported food controls. It is not possible to estimate sample numbers or types for such sampling due to the variability of volumes of imported foods which come through the airport. 3.9. Control and Investigation of Outbreaks and Food Related Infectious Diseases Environmental Health works closely with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Consultants in Public Health Medicine in outbreak control situations and the routine investigation of infectious disease. To support this, the health board has produced an outbreak control plan for dealing with major outbreaks of food-related illness to which Renfrewshire Council has had a major input. The Business Regulation Team work in partnership with the Public Health Protection Unit at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board to ensure the plan is adhered to. In addition, an outbreak control and investigation of notifications of food borne disease procedure is in place. Present resources within Environment Health are adequate to meet current levels of notification; however, in the event of a major outbreak, any required additional resources would be made available by seconding Environmental Heath Officers and other staff within the wider service.
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25 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.10. Food Incidents Food incidents are dealt with in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland). Notifications of incidents are received from Food Standards Scotland (FSS) by e-mail, phone or through the online system CLIO. In case of emergencies, an officer is on stand-by and has contact details for all relevant members of staff. Procedures for food safety incidents are in place and are available to all staff. This allows for alerts to be appropriately actioned, investigations set in motion and warnings issued if necessary. Any enforcement activity which is required in support of an incident is carried out within the terms of the relevant legislation and the Council’s enforcement policy for assuring the safety of food. In addition to responding to notified incidents, Renfrewshire Council will, where necessary, initiate Food Alerts in accordance with Code of Practice Guidance and will liaise with Food Standards Scotland in such situations. 3.11. Health and Safety Interventions The health and safety programme for 2026/27 has been drawn up having cognisance to LAC Circular 67/2 Setting Local Authority Priorities and Targeting Interventions. (See Table 11) The LAC provides LA’s with guidance and tools for priority planning and targeting of interventions taking a proportionate and consistent risk-based approach to enable Renfrewshire Council to meet the requirements of the National Local Enforcement Authority Code. Planned regulatory activity is focused on improved outcomes and reduced injuries to employees or members of the public. The code provides flexibility for LAs to address local priorities alongside the national priorities set by HSE. A key area of concern in recent times has been electrical safety in retail premises, over the course of this year officers will be undertaking interventions in retail premises regarding the inappropriate use of electrical equipment, installation and maintenance by non-competent persons giving rise to potential electric shock and fire risks. We will be working in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ensure businesses are given the necessary support and guidance on their responsibilities in relation to fire safety. Communications materials are being developed jointly between the Council and SFRS to distribute to businesses during these interventions. Table 11 - Health and Safety Priorities 2026/27 Special Interventions/Local Priorities
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26 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Inflatable Amusement Devices Trampoline Parks Intervention in catering establishments using LPG appliances due to risk of explosion. Intervention in retail premises regarding the inappropriate use of electrical equipment, installation and maintenance by non-competent persons giving rise to electric shock and fire risks. 3.12. Liaison with Other Organisations To ensure enforcement and other activities carried out by the Service are consistent with neighbouring authorities and to ensure best practice, Renfrewshire Council actively participates in the West of Scotland Food and Health & Safety Liaison Groups. The groups meet regularly throughout the year and comprise representatives from the fourteen authorities, which previously made-up Strathclyde Regional Council, together with representatives from Glasgow Scientific Services, Food Standards Scotland and the Health & Safety Executive. The groups are attended by the Lead Officer- Environmental Health, or a suitable deputy. The service also has formal and informal links to a range of other organisations and agencies. These Include: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board Association of Port Health Authorities Royal Environmental Health Institute for Scotland Society of Chief Officers of Environmental Health in Scotland Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland Scottish Food Enforcement Liaison Committee Health Protection Scotland Food Standards Scotland Health & Safety Executive Glasgow Scientific Services Animal and Plant Health Agency Marine Scotland Border Force H.M. Revenue and Customs APP Scottish Users Group
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27 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 3.13. Work Related Death Protocol A Work Related Death Protocol has been developed by the Crown Officer and Procurator Fiscal Service, in conjunction with partner agencies, setting out the principles for effective liaison among relevant parties in relation to work-related deaths in Scotland. In particular, it deals with incidents where, following a death, evidence indicates that a serious criminal offence which falls within the jurisdiction of more than one signatory to the protocol may have been committed. The protocol addresses issues concerning general liaison and is not intended to cover the operational practices of the signatory organisations. This protocol has been developed to emphasise the importance of working together to investigate thoroughly work-related deaths in Scotland, and where appropriate, to prosecute and/or proceed to a fatal accident inquiry. Renfrewshire Council have been asked to sign up to this protocol, and the full document is available on the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service website. Work Related Deaths-A-Protocol For Liasion
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28 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 4. Resources 4.1. Financial Allocation The budget detailed below indicates the level of resources available 2026/27 to deliver the necessary services. The resource allocation within the Business Regulation Team is 75% on food law enforcement and 25% on health & safety enforcement. This split is at the discretion of the Lead Food Officer and can be amended to meet service demands. Budget 2026/27 Employee Costs £470,000 Supplies and Services £173,000 Travel and Subsistence £0 Training £2,500 Total £645,500 Projected Income Source 2026/27 Export Health Certificates £420 Certificate of Compliances £1890 Section 50 Certificates £1050 Miscellaneous Income £150 Total £3510 4.2. Staffing Allocation Within the context of this plan, the allocation of staff is designed to provide an effective enforcement service for food law and occupational health and safety at work on behalf of Renfrewshire Council. All Environmental Health Officers and Food Safety Officers are authorised in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) commensurate with their training and experience. A range of additional relevant qualifications are held including: the REHIS Advanced HACCP or equivalent and FFCO Food Competent Certification. Two officers have completed the ISO 9000 Lead Assessors course, and two current Food Law Officers have attended and passed the Official Controls Verification Course. In addition, all Environmental Health Officers are authorised under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 due to having obtained the REHIS Diploma in Environmental Health, which is
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29 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC recognised as a suitable qualification for inspectors. One Environmental Health Officer has obtained the NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety and one Officer is currently undergoing this training. The Service secures administrative support from a pool of administrative and support staff in the Council’s Business Support Service. 4 full-time equivalent officers carry out the work of the Business Regulation team, including 1 Senior EHO. The staffing allocation to food law enforcement is 75% of 4 FTE’s, with the other 25% allocated to health & safety enforcement. Officers are allocated premises within specific geographical areas. There has been a reduction in the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) officers from 6.8 in 2024/25. Despite proactive recruitment efforts, attracting qualified officers has proven challenging, a trend mirrored across other local authorities due to a national shortage of suitably trained personnel. To support future capacity, we have put more focus on staff development and succession planning (see 4.2.1). It is considered that the Service has adequate expertise to provide a competent and full portfolio of enforcement and educational roles in relation to food law and health & safety. However, where necessary, we are able to draw on expertise from Food Standards Scotland, Glasgow Scientific Services – the Public Analyst, Health Protection Scotland, the Director of Public Health, Animal and Plant Health Authority (APHA), The Health & Safety Executive and other local authorities. 4.2.1. Staff development This year our trainee EHO and trainee FSO successfully passed their exams and are now working as fully qualified EHO and FSO within the team. To support future capacity, a Senior Technical Officer is being supported to complete their 48-week practical placement, enabling them to progress to the REHIS Diploma examinations in October 2026. Additionally, we are supporting the practical training of an Environmental Health student from the University of the West of Scotland, who is expected to graduate in 2027. We will continue to explore opportunities to develop existing staff and, where an EHO post cannot be filled, recruit Food Safety Officers/Senior Technical Officers with development opportunities.
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30 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 4.3. Employee Development Plan The Service is committed to ensuring all officers are suitably qualified, trained and remain competent in terms of the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and in terms of Section 18 of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. This is facilitated by the provision of in-house training, and all employees have the opportunity on a rotation basis to attend relevant external training events. Any employee attending such a course is required to “cascade” the relevant information to other officers within the team. Business Regulation Team meetings are held every 3 weeks, where performance, enforcement and other relevant issues are discussed. Matters arising from the quality assessment model for inspections, consistency issues and interpretation issues are discussed. Liaison group minutes are stored in the staff manual for all officers to use. Relevant points from the liaison groups are also discussed at team meetings. In addition, all staff have full access to and are trained in the application of policies and procedures, which are a requirement of the framework agreement on local authority food law enforcement. Training records are maintained for each officer. All officers have completed an individual Personal Development Plan and have had one-to- ones with their manager to discuss any training needs.
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31 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 5. Quality Assessment 5.1. Quality Assessment & Internal Monitoring The Service has a documented “Internal Monitoring Procedure – Internal Checks” quality assessment model for inspections. The Senior EHO has primary responsibility for carrying out quality assessments within the Service. The Lead Officer- Environmental Health has a secondary responsibility to oversee the performance of the Senior EHO and to ensure that quality assessments are being carried out consistently throughout the Service. The internal checks include file checks, one-to-one discussions, team discussions and accompanied inspections. Records of these are retained by the Senior EHO and Lead Officer- Environmental Health. This quality assessment model facilitates the Service’s requirement in accordance with Annex 2 of the Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) and the Section 18 guidance issued by the HSE to ensure that all staff engaged in enforcement activities retain their competence. The Lead Officer- Environmental Health reviews a monthly report on the performance indicators to ensure that the targets are met. The monthly monitoring report also details performance information relating to inspection deadlines, complaints and service requests received and food sampling activity.
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32 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 6. REVIEW 2025-26 6.1. Review of Food Law Activity Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions 1 A 12 18 1 B 12 11 1 C 6 11 1 D 0 0 1 E 0 0 Total 30 40 Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions 2 A 40 166 2 B 289 144 2 C 264 196 2 D 13 38 2 E 0 2 Total 606 546 Group Band Estimated Total Interventions Actual Interventions (including Alternative Intervention) 3 A 3 7 3 B 120 85 3 C 22 18 3 D 1 0 3 E 0 0 Total 146 110
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33 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Group Actual Interventions Food Standards Only N/A 4 Farms N/A 5 Approved Premises N/A 24 New Business Inspections Group1- Group2- Group3- 1 117 31 Advice visits (new businesses etc) n/a 9 Food Complaint visit n/a 33 Businesses Ceased Trading Group1- Group2- Group3- 2 150 48 REVISITS 150 Table 9 - Formal Enforcement Notices Type of Notice Total Remedial Action Notice 16 Hygiene Improvement Notice 12 Voluntary Closure 1 Voluntary Surrender 1 TARP Regulation 17 Notice 2 Programmed Food Hygiene Inspections: The Food Law Code of Practice (Scotland) states that” Intervention programmes should be planned so that establishments receive an intervention no later than 28 days after the scheduled date as detailed in Annex 5”. During the period 1/4/25 to 31/3/26 1467 Food Law interventions were carried out. Of these 598 were programmed interventions which need to be completed within 28 days specified in the code of practice. 91.5% of these programmed interventions were completed within the 28 days. 8.5% interventions were not completed within the 28; mainly due to staffing difficulties. Access difficulties for example seasonal operation and issues relating to
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34 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC security access for Glasgow Airport is also a contributory factor. All outstanding visits have now been completed or rescheduled for their operational season. 6.2. Review of Sampling activity A total of 53 samples were taken during the period 2025/26: 25 for microbiological examination, of which 0 failed and 28 for chemical/ compositional analysis of which 2 failed to meet compositional standards. (See below): Sample detail Chemical Analysis/Microbi ological Examination Reason for failure Pork Sausage chemical Meat content did not meet the level indicated on the labelling. Lorne Sausage chemical The product contained species of meat not indicated on labelling. Where samples were found to be unsatisfactory, visits to the businesses concerned were undertaken by officers, the results discussed, and advice given in respect of how the sample may have failed and how to ensure compliance in future. Resampling has been arranged. The Sampling Programme including the priorities for 2026/27 are detailed in Appendix 1.
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35 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 6.3. Review of Health and Safety activity Review of health and safety activity. In the year 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, the following health and safety interventions were undertaken: Intervention Category Total Accident / incident/Complaint investigations 13 New Premises Interventions 30 Advice visits to Businesses 4 Interventions 28 Revisits 3 Licensing Visits 24 Total Interventions 102 Total number of Health and Safety Notices served 2025/26 Improvement Notices 5 Prohibition Notices 6 6.4. Areas for Improvement Officers have been provided with tablets for use whilst carrying out their duties. This allows for more efficient processing of administration work during and post visits; we continue to review this process and streamline the administrative work. The use of the Power BI system will continue during 2026/27 to assist in performance monitoring and review. The electronic filing system continues to be used with more efficient ways of using it being explored. The Service continues to look at new ways we can utilise digital technology to improve the flow and efficiency of the work within the Business Regulation team.
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36 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 7. Emerging Issues 2026/27 Safer The SAFER programme is Food Standards Scotland’s (FSS) reform programme aimed at modernising the delivery of food law in Scotland. Local authorities currently face significant resource pressures and ageing workforce challenges, which has led to risks in effective delivery of food safety controls. The SAFER programme’s aim is to secure improved public health outcomes through model redesign, developing and embracing new and more efficient ways of working, better use of data and digital technologies, and ensuring financial sustainability. Local authority officers involved in the delivery of food law in Scotland will be required to support the SAFER process. This may include attending meetings and completing questionnaires. As a result, officers will need to allocate time away from their routine duties to contribute effectively and help ensure the development of a practical and workable outcome. Food Crime This continues to be a focus for FSS and food authorities with increased food fraudulent activities are being identified, following the Covid pandemic, Brexit and cost of living crisis. This has ongoing resource implications for the service. Food Crime erodes confidence and disempowers consumers, also leading to financial losses, negative economic impact and poses a threat to jobs and exports. Tackling food crime is so Nationally/Internationally important that FSS Food Crime unit was established and the Business Regulation Team already work closely with this unit and will continue to build on the established working relationships with them and other partner agencies. Imports from the European UnionThe challenges and uncertainties relating to imports from the European Union continue to exist. Officers regularly attend meetings in relation to port issues and discussions continue into inland import checks and the impacts that this may have on the service.
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37 PUBLIC 8. Appendix 1 – Food Sampling Programme 2026/27 8.1. Introduction The annual sampling programme for 2026-27 is designed to fulfil aims and objectives in line with the Services Food Sampling Policy. The programme outlines the sampling priorities for the year, however it is recognised that circumstances and priorities may change, which require the programme to be flexible to respond to these changing circumstances. Most samples are taken informally for the purpose of monitoring, surveillance and information gathering however; formal samples will be taken where enforcement action is anticipated. Environmental Health Officers, Food Safety Officers and other authorised officers are responsible for undertaking the food sampling functions of the Council. At present there is a Service Level Agreement in place with Glasgow City Council to provide analytical services to Renfrewshire Council. The analyst is: Glasgow Scientific Services, Colston Laboratory, 64 Everard Drive, Glasgow, G21 1XG. 8.2. Approach to Sampling Renfrewshire Council complies with the requirements of the Food Safety (Sampling and Qualifications) Regulations 1990 and the Food Law Code of Practice. The sampling programme for 2026/27 is designed to focus on high risk/high value products which are manufactured in Renfrewshire. Focussing on these items will ensure that those which pose the greatest risk to the public are adequately controlled. 8.2.1. Informal Samples An informal sample may be taken covertly, however; the food business operator will always be informed of the results of the sample where this fails. For enforcement purposes formal sampling must be undertaken overtly.
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38 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8.2.2. Formal Samples In accordance with the Council Integrated Enforcement Policy, which promotes action which is consistent, fair and proportionate, formal samples will generally be taken after routine samples have been found to fail statutory requirements and no satisfactory remedial action has been taken. 8.3. Sampling Priorities Food Standards Scotland and The Scottish Food Enforcement Liaison Committee have identified, through intelligence, the areas deemed to be priorities in terms of sampling. The priority plan considers the Scottish perspective but also takes account of the UK Food Standards Agency priorities. In addition to national priorities, Renfrewshire Council will focus on areas of particular interest to the authority. 8.4. Manufacturing/Approved Premises Renfrewshire Council will continue to concentrate on sampling from manufacturers and approved premises in our area. These premises will be sampled at least annually. Where possible, samples will be taken in advance of Food Hygiene/Food Standards inspections to discuss sample results with the food business operator. 8.5. Complaints and Food Borne Disease Investigations In response to complaints and notifications of food borne disease received the service may opt to take samples in order to resolve any issues arising from any investigations. 8.6. Co-ordinated Sampling Where appropriate, the Service will participate in food surveillance programmes arranged by regional and national bodies such as Food Standards Scotland, SFELC and the West of Scotland Food Liaison Group.
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39 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC 8.7. Imported Food In order to monitor the quality, composition and labelling of imported foods, samples of foods imported through Glasgow Airport will be submitted to the Public Analyst for examination. 8.8. Special Investigations There may be circumstances whereby an incident will require special investigation and resources may have to be directed towards dealing with the investigation.This may involve liaison with other partners including Health Protection Scotland and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Health Board. 8.9. Sampling Priority Actions The following topics have been identified as priority actions by FSS and will be the subject of sampling activity during 2026/27, along with other local surveillance activities. Description Premises Type Analysis Required Samples agreed Pistachio Nuts Retail Salmonella 1 Botanical/fibre supplements (moringa, green powders, psyllium etc) Retail Salmonella, labelling (inc. health claims) 1 Fresh Herbs Retail Salmonella, STEC, L. monocytogenes, B. cereus 1 RTE sliced meats Retail L. monocytogenes, Hygiene indicators 1 Chilled, dairy- based desserts Small Retailers L. monocytogenes, B. cereus, S. aureus, Salmonella, hygiene indicators 1 Dubai (or Dubai- style) chocolate Retail Salmonella 1
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40 Business Regulation Service Plan 2026-2027 PUBLIC Plant based meat analogues Retail Aflatoxins, Ochratoxin A, T2 / HT2, Fumonisins, DON, ZON 1 Plant based protein powders Retail Acrylamide 1 Jams, preserves Retail Sulphite (as preservative or allergen), soluble solids, sugar content 1 Oriental-style take aways Caterers Monosodium Glutamate, salt 1 Maize products - corn flakes, taco shells, tortilla chips Retail GMO event MIR-162 1 Pasta Retail Cadmium 1 Oat-based products Retail Mycotoxins – T2, HT2, DON, ZON 1 Slushed ice drinks Retail and Caterers Glycerol 1 Dubai and Dubai style - chocolate Retail Peanut allergen, aflatoxins, labelling 1 Feta cheese Retail Cow’s Milk 1 Tahini Retail Peanut 1 8.10. Routine Sampling The project sampling initiatives listed above will be the focus of sampling activities however, in the course of routine work, officers will take samples as appropriate. This sampling will focus on locally produced foods and manufacturing businesses within Renfrewshire.
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41 PUBLIC 9. Appendix 2 -Structure
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42 PUBLIC Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR