5-7.
OPENING TEMPERATURES
Opening temperatures are taken by the inspector to make sure that the
conveyance/carrier complies with the temperature requirements.
a. Trucks. When determining the temperature of trucks, the temperature is taken
in the center of the truck's body, with the thermometer hung by a string from the ceiling, at
least 5 feet from the floor. The thermometer used is the bimetallic direct-reading
thermometer. See figure 5-1. If unable to suspend the thermometer, as described
above, select an area as close to the center as possible to preclude contact with contents
or conveyance. Then, using the thermometer case as a holder, place the thermometer
on top of cartons or crates. Make sure that the dial of the thermometer is face down and
the stem upright. The truck door should be closed and the thermometer left at least 10
minutes for a true reading.
b. Railcars. Temperatures of railcars are determined midway between the doors
and the end of the railcar, about 5 feet from the floor. As in trucks, the thermometer
should be left in place with the doors closed for at least 10 minutes. Some railcars and
trucks have a permanent temperature device, normally near the cooling engine, which
may be looked at for comparison.
c. Ships. Determining temperatures aboard ships depends on the construction of
the vessel. Some modern ships have automatic recording thermometers that may be
read at a central area. Some have thermometers attached to each refrigerated
compartment. Some older ships still use mercurial thermometers.
5-8.
SANITARY CONDITIONS
The veterinary food inspection specialist inspects conveyances for sanitary
conditions, such as objectionable odors, trash, debris, excessive moisture, animal and
vegetable waste matter, and mold growth.
a. Insulation. Completely enclosed or refrigerated vehicles are used for
transporting perishable products where dust and temperature rise above recommended
levels or where other detrimental effects are encountered. The cargo space of the carrier
must be completely tight when the doors are closed. When canvas-covered vehicles are
used, the rear flap must be lowered and secured.
b. Vehicle Cleanliness. Vehicles must be designed, constructed, and operated
keep clean and to keep in good repair.
(1) Interior. The interior of the truck must be free of foreign odors and debris.
Side walls and floor racks must be clean
(2)
Barriers. Blankets or other equipment used as barriers must be clean and
odorless.
(3)
Stacking. Loads should be stacked so as to allow proper circulation of air.
MD0694
5-4