Title 25 DCMR — FOOD OPERATIONS AND COMMUNITY HYGIENE FACILITIES

title-25Title 25 DCMRRegulation

Abrir fonte

25-A FOOD AND FOOD OPERATIONS

25-A1 TITLE, INTENT, AND SCOPE

25-A DCMR § 100 TITLE ─ FOOD CODE

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Food Code, hereinafter referred to as “this Code.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 101 INTENT ─ FOOD SAFETY, ILLNESS PREVENTION, AND HONEST PRESENTATION

101.1 The purpose of this Code is to safeguard public health and provide to consumers food that is safe, unadulterated, and honestly presented.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 102 SCOPE ─ STATEMENT

102.1 This Code establishes definitions; sets standards for management and personnel, food operations, and equipment and facilities; provides for food establishment plan review, license issuance, inspections, and the exclusion or restriction of food employees and conditional employees; sets requirements for bed & breakfast kitchens, caterers and catered facilities; and provides for enforcement through licensing, license suspension and revocation, embargo and condemnation of foods and equipment, and fines and penalties.

102.2 Certain provisions of this Code are identified as priority items, priority foundation items, or core items are as follows:

(a) Priority items are provisions whose application contributes directly to the elimination, prevention, or reduction to an acceptable level of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury, when there is no other provision that more directly controls the hazard. A priority item is denoted with a superscripted letter “P” (P);

(b) Priority foundation items are provisions whose application supports facilities or enables one (1) or more priority items. A priority foundation item is denoted with superscripted letters “Pf” (Pf); and

(c) Core items are provisions that are not designated as a priority item or a priority foundation item and that usually relate to general sanitation, operational controls, sanitation standards operating procedures (SSOPs), facilities or structures, equipment design, or general maintenance.

102.3 The provisions of Chapters 1 through 49 are supplemental to other rules that apply to specific food operations, and supplement other applicable District rules.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING OF FOOD EMPLOYEES

25-A DCMR § 200 RESPONSIBILITY ─ ASSIGNMENT & QUALIFICATION OF PERSON IN CHARGE

200.1 The licensee shall be the person in charge or shall designate a person in charge, who shall serve as an on-site manager or supervisor. The licensee shall ensure that a person in charge is present at the food establishment during all hours of operation. Pf

200.2 The licensee or person in charge shall designate an alternate person in charge to serve as on-site manager or supervisor at all times when the regular person in charge cannot be present.

200.3 Each person in charge shall be adequately trained to ensure that the food establishment operates in compliance with this Code. Each person in charge shall also be a certified food protection manager as required by § 203.

200.4 Documentation that each person in charge is a certified food protection manager with knowledge of food safety shall be conspicuously posted in the food establishment next to the food establishment license. Such documentation shall be removed when the individual is no longer employed on-site by the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 201 KNOWLEDGE ─ PERSON IN CHARGE

201.1 Based on the risks of foodborne illness inherent to the food operation, during inspections and upon request, the person in charge shall demonstrate to the Department of Health (Department) knowledge of foodborne disease prevention, application of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles, and the requirements of this Code.

201.2 The person in charge shall demonstrate the knowledge required in § 201.1 by:

(a) Complying with this Code by having no violations of critical items during the current inspection; Pf

(b) Being a certified food protection manager who has shown proficiency of required information through passing a test that is part of an accredited program; or Pf

(c) Responding correctly to the inspector’s questions as they relate to the specific food establishment. The person in charge shall be knowledgeable in the following areas:

(1) Describing the relationship between the prevention of foodborne disease and the personal hygiene of a food employee; Pf

(2) Explaining the responsibility of the person in charge for preventing the transmission of foodborne disease by a food employee who has a disease or medical condition that may cause foodborne disease; Pf

(3) Describing the symptoms associated with the diseases that are transmissible through food; Pf

(4) Explaining the significance of the relationship between maintaining the time and temperature of potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) and the prevention of foodborne illness; Pf

(5) Explaining the hazards involved in the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, and fish; Pf

(6) Stating the required food temperatures and times for safe cooking of potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) including meat, poultry, eggs, and fish; Pf

(7) Stating the required temperatures and times for the safe refrigerated storage, hot holding, cooling, and reheating of potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food); Pf

(8) Describing the relationship between the prevention of foodborne illness and the management and control of:

(A) Cross contamination; Pf

(B) Hand contact with ready-to-eat foods; Pf

(C) Handwashing; Pf and

(D) Maintaining the food establishment in a clean condition and in good repair; Pf

(9) Describing foods identified as major food allergens and the symptoms that a major food allergen could cause in a sensitive individual who has an allergic reaction; Pf

(10) Explaining the relationship between food safety and providing equipment that is sufficient in number and capacity, and properly designed, constructed, located, installed, operated, maintained, and cleaned; Pf

(11) Explaining correct procedures for cleaning and sanitizing utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment; Pf

(12) Identifying the source of water used and measures taken to ensure that it remains protected from contamination such as providing protection from backflow and precluding the creation of cross connections; Pf

(13) Identifying poisonous or toxic materials in the food establishment and the procedures necessary to ensure that they are safely stored, dispensed, used, and disposed of according to applicable District of Columbia law; Pf

(14) Identifying critical control points in the operation from purchasing through sale or service that when not controlled may contribute to the transmission of foodborne illness and explaining steps taken to ensure that the points are controlled in accordance with the requirements of this Code; Pf

(15) Explaining the details of how the person in charge and food employees comply with the HACCP Plan if a plan is required by this Code, or an agreement between the Department and the establishment; Pf

(16) Explaining the responsibilities, rights, and authorities assigned by this Code to the food employee, conditional employee, person in charge, and the Department; and Pf

(17) Explaining how the person in charge, food employees, and conditional employee comply with reporting responsibilities and exclusion or restriction of food employees. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 202 DUTIES ─ PERSON IN CHARGE

202.1 The person in charge shall ensure that food establishment operations are not conducted in a private home or in a room used as living or sleeping quarters as specified in § 2918. Pf

202.2 The person in charge shall ensure that persons unnecessary to the food establishment operation are not allowed in the food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas, except that brief visits and tours may be authorized by the person in charge if steps are taken to ensure that exposed food; clean equipment, utensils, and linens; and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles are protected from contamination. Pf

202.3 The person in charge shall ensure that employees and other persons such as delivery and maintenance persons and pesticide applicators entering the food preparation, food storage, and warewashing areas comply with this Code. Pf

202.4 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are effectively cleaning their hands, by routinely monitoring the employees' handwashing. Pf

202.5 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are visibly observing foods as they are received to determine that they are from approved sources, delivered at the required temperatures, protected from contamination, unadulterated, and accurately presented by routinely monitoring the employees' observations and periodically evaluating foods upon their receipt. Pf

202.6 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are properly cooking potentially hazardous foods (time/temperature control for safety foods), being particularly careful in cooking those foods known to cause severe foodborne illness and death, such as eggs and comminuted meats, through daily oversight of the employees' routine monitoring of the cooking temperatures using appropriate temperature measuring devices properly scaled and calibrated as specified under Sections 1510 and 1816.2. Pf

202.7 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are using proper methods to rapidly cool potentially hazardous foods (time/temperature control for safety foods) that are not held hot or are not for consumption within four (4) hours, through daily oversight of the employees' routine monitoring of food temperatures during cooling. Pf

202.8 The person in charge shall ensure that consumers who order raw or partially cooked ready-to-eat foods of animal origin are informed as specified in Section 1105 that the food is not cooked sufficiently to ensure its safety. Pf

202.9 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are properly sanitizing cleaned multiuse equipment and utensils before they are reused, through routine monitoring of solution temperature and exposure time for hot water sanitizing, and chemical concentration, ph, temperature, and exposure time for chemical sanitizing. Pf

202.10 The person in charge shall ensure that consumers are notified that clean tableware is to be used when they return to self-service areas such as salad bars and buffets as specified in § 814. Pf

202.11 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are preventing cross contamination of ready-to-eat food with bare hands by properly using suitable utensils such as deli tissue, spatulas, tongs, single-use gloves, or dispensing equipment, except as specified in § 800.4. Pf

202.12 The person in charge shall ensure that employees are properly trained in food safety, including food allergy awareness, as it relates to their assigned duties. Pf

202.13 The person in charge shall ensure that food employees and conditional employees are informed of their responsibility to report information about their health and activities as they relate to diseases that are transmissible through food, as specified in § 300.1. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 203 CERTIFICATION AND DISTRICT-ISSUED ID REQUIREMENTS ─ FOOD PROTECTION MANAGER, PERSON IN CHARGE

203.1 Each person in charge shall be certified by a food protection manager certification program that is accredited by the Conference for Food Protection Standards for Accreditation of Food Protection Manager Certification Programs. Such certified food protection managers shall be deemed in compliance with § 201.2(b). P

203.2 A person in charge who is a certified food protection manager as required in § 203.1 shall be re-certified every three (3) years. P

203.3 A person in charge who is a certified food protection manager as required in § 203.1 shall obtain a District-issued Food Protection Manager Identification Card (ID Card), issued by the Department, and shall renew the District-issued ID Card every three (3) years. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A3 FOOD EMPLOYEE/APPLICANT HEALTH

25-A DCMR § 300 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF FOOD EMPLOYEES AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES TO REPORT SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

300.1 The licensee shall require food employees and conditional employees to report to the person in charge, in accordance with this section, information about their health and activities as they relate to diseases that are transmissible through food.

300.2 A food employee or conditional employee shall report the information in a manner that allows the person in charge to reduce the risk of foodborne disease transmission, including providing necessary additional information, such as the date of onset of symptoms of an illness or of a diagnosis without symptoms.

300.3 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to the person in charge when he or she has any of the following symptoms:

(a) Vomiting; P

(b) Diarrhea; P

(c) Jaundice; P

(d) Sore throat with fever; P or

(e) A lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and is:

(1) On the hands or wrists, unless an impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall protects the lesion and a single-use glove is worn over the impermeable cover; P

(2) On exposed portions of the arms, unless the lesion is protected by an impermeable cover; P or

(3) On other parts of the body, unless the lesion is covered by a dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage. P

300.4 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to the person in charge if a licensed physician or physician’s assistant has diagnosed him or her with an illness due to:

(a) Norovirus; P

(b) Hepatitis A virus; P

(c) Shigella spp.; P

(d) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli; P or

(e) Salmonella Typhi. P

300.5 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to the person in charge if he or she had a previous illness, diagnosed by a licensed physician or physician’s assistant, within the past three (3) months due to Salmonella Typhi, without having received antibiotic therapy. P

300.6 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to the person in charge if he or she has been exposed to, or is the suspected source of, a confirmed disease outbreak involving one of the diseases specified in § 300.4, because the food employee or conditional employee:

(a) Consumed or prepared food implicated in the outbreak;

(b) Consumed food at an event prepared by a person who is infected or ill with the disease;

(c) Was exposed by attending or working in a setting where there is a confirmed disease outbreak;

(d) Is living in the same household as an individual who works in or attends a setting where there is a confirmed disease outbreak, and the employee has knowledge of that person’s exposure; or

(e) Is living in the same household as an individual diagnosed with an illness and has knowledge of the diagnosis.

300.7 A food employee or conditional employee shall make the report required under § 300.6 if the exposure was to:

(a) Norovirus and the most recent exposure occurred within the past forty- eight (48) hours; P

(b) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli, or Shigella spp. and the most recent exposure occurred within the past three (3) days; P

(c) Salmonella Typhi and the most recent exposure occurred within the past fourteen (14) days; P or

(d) Hepatitis A virus and the most recent exposure occurred within thirty (30) days. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 301 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPORT SPECIFIC ILLNESS OF FOOD EMPLOYEE TO THE DEPARTMENT

301.1 The person in charge shall notify the Department when a food employee is:

(a) Jaundiced; Pf or

(b) Diagnosed with an illness due to a pathogen specified in § 300.4. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 302 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROHIBIT A CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE WITH A SPECIFIC ILLNESS FROM BECOMING A FOOD EMPLOYEE

302.1 The person in charge shall ensure that a conditional employee who exhibits or reports a symptom, or reports a diagnosed illness as specified in § 300.3 through 300.5, is prohibited from becoming a food employee until the conditional employee satisfies the requirements for reinstatement associated with specific symptoms or diagnosed illnesses specified in § 307. P

302.2 The person in charge shall ensure that a conditional employee who will work as a food employee in a food establishment that serves as a highly susceptible population and reports a history of exposure as specified in § 300.6 and 300.7, is prohibited from becoming a food employee until the conditional employee satisfies the requirements associated with specific symptoms or diagnosed illnesses specified in § 307.10. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 303 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF PERSON IN CHARGE TO EXCLUDE OR RESTRICT ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

303.1 The person in charge shall ensure that a food employee who exhibits or reports a symptom or who reports a diagnosed illness or a history of exposure as specified in § 300.3 through 300.7 is:

(a) Excluded as specified in § 305, and §§ 306.1(a) and 306.2(a), except as provided in § 307; P or

(b) Restricted as specified in § 306, except as provided in § 307. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 304 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF FOOD EMPLOYEES TO COMPLY WITH EXCLUSIONS OR RESTRICTIONS

304.1 A food employee shall comply with:

(a) An exclusion imposed pursuant to § 305, and § 306.1(a) or § 306.2(a), unless reinstated pursuant to § 307; P or

(b) A restriction imposed pursuant to Section 306, unless reinstated pursuant to § 307. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 305 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ CONDITIONS REQUIRING EXCLUSION OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

305.1 Except when the symptom is from a noninfectious condition, the person in charge shall exclude a food employee from a food establishment, if the food employee is:

(a) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea; P or

(b) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea and diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus, Shigella spp., or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin- Producing Escherichia coli. P

305.2 The person in charge shall exclude a food employee who is:

(a) Jaundiced and the onset of jaundice occurred within the last seven (7) calendar days, unless the food employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant specifying that the jaundice is not caused by hepatitis A virus or other fecal-orally transmitted infection; P

(b) Diagnosed with an infection from hepatitis A virus within fourteen (14) calendar days after the onset of any illness symptoms, or within seven (7) calendar days after the onset of jaundice; P or

(c) Diagnosed with an infection from hepatitis A virus without developing symptoms. P

305.3 The person in charge shall exclude a food employee who is diagnosed with an infection from Salmonella Typhi, or reports a previous infection with Salmonella Typhi within the past three (3) months without having received antibiotic therapy. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 306 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ CONDITIONS REQUIRING EXCLUSION OR RESTRICTION OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

306.1 If a food employee is diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus, Shigella spp., or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli, and is asymptomatic, the person in charge shall:

(a) Exclude the food employee who works in a food establishment serving a highly susceptible population; P or

(b) Restrict the food employee who works in a food establishment not serving a highly susceptible population. P

306.2 If a food employee is ill with symptoms of acute onset of sore throat with fever, the person in charge shall:

(a) Exclude the food employee who works in a food establishment serving a highly susceptible population; P or

(b) Restrict the food employee who works in a food establishment not serving a highly susceptible population. P

306.3 The person in charge shall restrict a food employee who is infected with a skin lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and not properly covered as specified in § 300.3(e). P

306.4 The person in charge shall restrict a food employee who has been exposed to a foodborne pathogen as specified in § 300.6 and 300.7, and who works in a food establishment serving a highly susceptible population. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 307 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE, ADJUST, OR RETAIN EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

307.1 If a food employee is not diagnosed with an infection from hepatitis A virus or Salmonella Typhi, the person in charge may:

(a) Reinstate a food employee who was excluded under § 305.1(a) for being symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea if the food employee is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours; P or

(b) The food employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant that states the food employee’s symptom is from a noninfectious condition. P

307.2 If a food employee was diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus and excluded under § 305.1(b), the person in charge shall:

(a) Restrict the food employee who is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours and works in a food establishment not serving a highly susceptible population, until the conditions for reinstatement as specified in § 307.6(a) or (b) are met; P or

(b) Retain the exclusion for the food employee, who is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours and works in a food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population, until the conditions for reinstatement as specified in § 307.6(a) or (b) are met. P

307.3 If a food employee was diagnosed with an infection from Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli and excluded under § 305.1(b), the person in charge shall:

(a) Restrict the food employee who is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours, and works in a food establishment not serving a highly susceptible population until the conditions for reinstatement as specified in § 307.7 are met; P or

(b) Retain the exclusion for the food employee who is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours and works in a food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population, until the conditions for reinstatement as specified in § 307.7 are met. P

307.4 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was excluded due to jaundice or a diagnosis of hepatitis A virus under § 305.2 if the person in charge obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The food employee has been jaundiced for more than seven (7) calendar days; P

(b) The anicteric food employee has been symptomatic with symptoms other than jaundice for more than fourteen (14) calendar days; P or

(c) The food employee provides to the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant stating that the food employee is free of a hepatitis A virus infection.

307.5 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was excluded for Salmonella Typhi under § 305.3 if:

(a) The person in charge obtains approval from the Department; P and

(b) The food employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee is free from Salmonella Typhi infection. P

307.6 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was excluded under § 305.1(b) or restricted under §§ 306.1 or 307.2 for Norovirus if the person in charge obtains the Department’s approval and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The excluded or restricted employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant that states the food employee is free of Norovirus infection; P

(b) The food employee was excluded or restricted after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea resolved, and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the food employee became asymptomatic; P or

(c) The food employee was excluded or restricted and did not develop symptoms and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the food employee was diagnosed. P

307.7 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was excluded under § 305.1(b) or restricted under § 306.1 or § 307.3 for Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli if the person in charge obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The excluded or restricted food employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant that states the food employee is free of a Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli infection based on test results showing two (2) consecutive negative stool specimen cultures that are taken:

(1) Not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours after discontinuance of antibiotics; P and

(2) At least twenty-four (24) hours apart; P

(b) The food employee was excluded or restricted after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea resolved, and more than seven (7) calendar days have passed since the food employee became asymptomatic; P or

(c) The food employee was excluded or restricted and did not develop symptoms and more than seven (7) calendar days have passed since the food employee was diagnosed. P

307.8 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was excluded or restricted under § 306.2 for sore throat with fever if the food employee provides the person in charge with written medical documentation from a licensed physician or physician’s assistant that states the food employee meets one (1) of the following conditions:

(a) Has received antibiotic therapy for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection for more than twenty-four (24) hours; P

(b) Has at least one negative throat specimen culture for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection; P or

(c) Is otherwise determined by a licensed physician or physician’s assistant to be free of a Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection. P

307.9 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was restricted as specified in Subsection 306.3 if the skin, infected wound, cut, or pustular boil is properly covered with one (1) of the following:

(a) An impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall and a single-use glove over the impermeable cover if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the hand, finger, or wrist; P

(b) An impermeable cover on the arm if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the arm; P or

(c) A dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage if the infected wound or pustular boil is on another part of the body. P

307.10 The person in charge shall reinstate a food employee who was restricted as specified in § 306.4 and was exposed to a pathogen as specified in § 300.6 or 300.7, if:

(a) The exposure was to Norovirus and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(1) More than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the last day the food employee was potentially exposed; P or

(2) More than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the food employee’s household contact became asymptomatic; P

(b) The exposure was to Shigella spp. or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(1) More than three (3) calendar days have passed since the last day the food employee was potentially exposed; P or

(2) More than three (3) calendar days have passed since the food employee’s household contact became asymptomatic; P

(c) The exposure was to Salmonella Typhi and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(1) More than fourteen (14) calendar days have passed since the last day the food employee was potentially exposed; P or

(2) More than fourteen (14) calendar days have passed since the food employee’s household contact became asymptomatic; P

(d) The exposure was to hepatitis A virus and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(1) The food employee is immune to hepatitis A virus infection because of a prior illness from hepatitis A; P

(2) The food employee is immune to hepatitis A virus infection because of vaccination against hepatitis A; P

(3) The food employee is immune to hepatitis A virus infection because of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) administration; P

(4) More than thirty (30) calendar days have passed since the last day the food employee was potentially exposed; P

(5) More than thirty (30) calendar days have passed since the food employee’s household contact became jaundiced; P or

(6) The food employee does not use an alternative procedure that allows bare hand contact with ready-to-eat food until at least thirty (30) calendar days after the potential exposure, as specified in §§ 307.10(d)(4) and 307.10(d)(5), and the food employee receives additional training about:

(A) Hepatitis A symptoms and preventing the transmission of infection; P

(B) Proper handwashing procedures; P and

(C) Protecting ready-to-eat food from contamination introduced by bare hand contact. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A4 PERSONAL CLEANLINESS OF FOOD EMPLOYEES

25-A DCMR § 400 HANDS AND ARMS ─ CLEAN CONDITION

400.1 Food employees shall keep their hands and exposed portions of their arms clean. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 401 HANDS AND ARMS ─ CLEANING PROCEDURE

401.1 Except as specified in § 401.4, food employees shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms, including surrogate prosthetic devices for hands or arms, for at least twenty (20) seconds, using a cleaning compound in a handwashing sink that is equipped as specified in § 2402 and §§ 3000 through 3005. P

401.2 Food employees shall use the following cleaning procedure in the order stated to clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms, including surrogate prosthetic devices for hands and arms:

(a) Rinse under clean, running warm water; P

(b) Apply an amount of cleaning compound recommended by the cleaning compound manufacturer; P

(c) Rub together vigorously for at least ten (10) to fifteen (15) seconds while:

(1) Paying particular attention to removing soil from underneath the fingernails during the cleaning procedure, P and

(2) Creating friction on the surfaces of the hands and arms or surrogate prosthetic devices for hands and arms, finger tips, and areas between the fingers; P

(d) Thoroughly rinse under clean, running warm water; P

(e) Immediately follow the cleaning procedure with thorough drying using a method specified in § 3002; P and

(f) Sanitize hands when appropriate in addition to, but not in place of, the proper handwashing methods.

401.3 To avoid recontaminating their hands or surrogate prosthetic devices, food employees may use disposable paper towels or similar clean barriers when touching surfaces such as manually operated faucet handles on a handwashing sink or the handle of a restroom door.

401.4 If approved and capable of removing the types of soils encountered in the food operations involved, food employees may use an automatic handwashing facility to clean their hands or surrogate prosthetic devices.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 402 HANDS AND ARMS ─ WHEN TO WASH

402.1 Food employees shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms as specified in § 401 immediately before working in direct contact with food, clean equipment and utensils, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles, P and:

(a) After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean, exposed portions of arms; P

(b) After using the toilet room; P

(c) After caring for or handling aquatic animals as specified in § 503.2; P

(d) After coughing, sneezing, using a handkerchief or disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating, or drinking; P

(e) After handling soiled surfaces, equipment, or utensils; P

(f) During food preparation, as often as necessary to remove soil and contamination and to prevent cross-contamination when changing tasks; P

(g) After each absence from the work station; P

(h) Immediately before touching ready-to-eat food or food-contact surfaces; P

(i) When switching between working with raw food and working with ready to-eat food; P

(j) Before donning gloves for working with food; P and

(k) After engaging in other activities that contaminate the hands. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 403 HANDS AND ARMS ─ WHERE TO WASH

403.1 Food employees shall clean their hands in a handwashing sink or approved automatic handwashing facility and shall not clean their hands in a sink used for food preparation or warewashing, or in a service sink or a curbed cleaning facility used for the disposal of mop water or similar liquid waste. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 404 HANDS AND ARMS ─ HAND ANTISEPTICS

404.1 A hand antiseptic used as a topical application, a hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip, or a hand antiseptic soap shall:

(a) Comply with one (1) of the following:

(1) Be an approved drug that is listed in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) publication Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations as an approved drug based on safety and effectiveness; Pf or

(2) Have active antimicrobial ingredients that are listed in the FDA monograph for over-the-counter (OTC) Health-Care Antiseptic Drug Products as an antiseptic handwash; Pf and

(b) Comply with one (1) of the following:

(1) Have components that are exempt from the requirements of being listed in the federal food additive regulations as specified in 21 C.F.R. § 170.39 – Threshold of regulation for substances used in food-contact articles; Pf

(2) Comply with and be listed in 21 C.F.R. part 178 − Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Production Aids, and Sanitizers as regulated for use as a food additive with conditions of safe use; Pf or

(3) Comply with and be listed in 21 C.F.R. part 182 – Substances Generally Recognized as Safe, 21 C.F.R. part 184 – Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe, or 21 C.F.R. part 186 – Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe; Pf and

(c) Be applied only to hands that are cleaned as specified in § 401.Pf

404.2 If a hand antiseptic or a hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip does not meet the criteria specified in § 404.1(b), use shall be:

(a) Followed by thorough hand rinsing in clean water before hand contact with food or by the use of gloves; Pf or

(b) Limited to employees working in situations that involve no direct contact with food by the bare hands. Pf

404.3 A hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip shall be maintained clean and at a strength equivalent to at least one hundred parts per million (100 ppm) of chlorine or twenty-five parts per million (25 ppm) of iodine and changed every four (4) hours while in use. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 405 HANDS AND ARMS ─ FINGERNAIL MAINTENANCE

405.1 All persons working in direct contact with food, clean equipment and utensils, or unwrapped single-service and single-use articles shall keep their fingernails trimmed, filed, and maintained so that the edges and surfaces are cleanable and not rough. Pf

405.2 Unless wearing intact gloves in good repair, a food employee shall not wear fingernail polish or artificial fingernails when working with exposed food, clean equipment and utensils, or unwrapped single-service and single-use articles. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 406 HANDS AND ARMS ─ JEWELRY PROHIBITION

406.1 Persons working in direct contact with food, clean equipment and utensils, or unwrapped single-service and single-use articles shall not wear jewelry, including medical information jewelry on their arms or hands, except for a plain ring such as a wedding band.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 407 OUTER CLOTHING ─ CLEAN CONDITION

407.1 Food employees shall wear clean outer clothing to prevent contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 408 OUTER CLOTHING CLEAN CONDITION

408.1 Food employees shall wear clean outer clothing to prevent contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles. When moving from a raw food operation to a ready-to-eat food operation, food employees shall wear clean outer covering over clothing or change to clean clothing if clothing is soiled.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 6184, 6220 (July 5, 2002).

25-A5 HYGIENIC PRACTICES OF FOOD EMPLOYEES

25-A DCMR § 500 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION ─ EATING, DRINKING, OR USING TOBACCO

500.1 Persons working in direct contact with food, clean equipment and utensils, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles shall not:

(a) Eat, drink, chew gum, or use any form of tobacco, except in designated areas where food, clean equipment and utensils, and unwrapped single service and single-use articles are not exposed, and where equipment or utensils are not washed or stored; or

(b) Drink, except from a closed beverage container if the container is handled to prevent contamination of the employee’s hands or the container, where food, clean equipment and utensils, linens, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles are exposed, and where equipment or utensils are washed or stored.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 501 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION ─ DISCHARGES FROM THE EYES, NOSE, AND MOUTH

501.1 Food employees experiencing persistent sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose that causes a discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth shall not work with exposed food, clean equipment and utensils, linens, or unwrapped single-service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 502 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION ─ HAIR RESTRAINTS, EFFECTIVENESS

502.1 Food employees shall wear clean and effective hair restraints, such as hairnets or beard nets, if appropriate, and clothing that covers body hair that are designed and worn to effectively keep hair from contacting exposed food, clean equipment and utensils, linens, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles. Hats, caps, scarves or other head covers are acceptable if the hair is contained to prevent contamination. Hair spray and tying back the hair in a ponytail are not effective hair restraints.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 503 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION ─ ANIMALS, PROHIBITION ON HANDLING

503.1 Food employees shall not care for or handle animals that may be present in the food establishment, such as patrol dogs, or service animals that are allowed as specified in §§ 3214.2(b) through (e).

503.2 Food employees may handle or care for fish in aquariums or molluscan shellfish or crustacea in display tanks if they wash their hands as specified in § 401 and § 402.1(c).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 504 RESPONDING TO CONTAMINATION EVENTS ─ CLEAN-UP OF VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

504.1 A licensee shall ensure that its food establishment shall have procedures for employees to follow when responding to vomiting or diarrheal events that involve the discharge of vomitus or fecal matter onto surfaces in the food establishment. The procedures shall address the specific actions employees must take to minimize the spread of contamination and the exposure of employees, consumers, food, and surfaces to vomitus or fecal matter. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A6 CHARACTERISTICS OF FOOD

25-A DCMR § 600 CONDITION OF FOOD

600.1 Food shall be safe, unadulterated, and, as specified in § 1101, honestly presented.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A7 SOURCES, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND RECORDS FOR FOOD

25-A DCMR § 700 SOURCES ─ COMPLIANCE WITH FOOD LAWS

700.1 Food shall be obtained from sources that comply with federal and state laws and An Act Relating to the adulteration of foods and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898 (30 Stat. 246; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101, et seq. (2009 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)). P

700.2 Food prepared or stored in a private home shall not be used or offered for human consumption in a food establishment, except as provided in Chapter 38 – Residential Kitchens in Bed and Breakfast Operations. P

700.3 Packaged food shall be labeled as specified in law, including 21 C.F.R. § 101 − Food Labeling, 9 C.F.R. § 317 − Labeling, Marking Devices, and Containers, and 9 C.F.R. § 381.117, Subpart N − Labeling and Containers, and as specified in §§ 713 and 714. Pf

700.4 Fish, other than those specified in § 903.2 that are intended for consumption in their raw or undercooked form and allowed as specified in § 900.3 may be offered for sale or service if they are obtained from a supplier that freezes the fish as specified in § 903, or frozen on the premises as specified in § 903 and records are retained as specified in § 904.

700.5 Whole-muscle, intact beefsteaks that are intended for consumption in an undercooked form without a consumer advisory as specified in § 900.4 shall be:

(a) Obtained from a food processing plant that, upon request by the purchaser, packages the steaks and labels them to indicate that the steaks meet the definition of whole-muscle, intact beef; Pf or

(b) Deemed acceptable by the Department based on other evidence, such as written buyer specifications or invoices, that indicates the steaks meet the definition of “whole-muscle, intact beef,” Pf and

(c) If individually cut in a food establishment:

(1) Cut from whole-muscle intact beef that is labeled by a food processing plant as specified in § 700.5(a) or identified as specified in § 700.5(b); Pf

(2) Prepared so they remain intact; Pf and

(3) If packaged for undercooking in a food establishment, labeled as specified in § 700.5(a) or identified as specified in § 700.5(b). Pf

700.6 Meat and poultry that is not a ready-to-eat food and is in a packaged form when it is offered for sale or otherwise offered for consumption shall be labeled to include safe handling instructions as specified in law, including 9 C.F.R. § 317.2(l) Labels; definition; required features, and 9 C.F.R. § 381.125(b) Special handling label requirements.

700.7 Eggs that have not been specifically treated to destroy all viable Salmonellae shall be labeled to include safe handling instructions as specified in law, including 21 C.F.R. § 101.17(h).

700.8 A licensee or person-in-charge shall be responsible for providing evidence indicating that he/she has reason to believe that food items in the food establishment comply with the requirements of this Code and shall, when requested by the Department, furnish the name and business address of the supplier or suppliers from whom any particular food item was purchased.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 701 SOURCES ─ FOOD IN HERMETICALLY SEALED CONTAINERS

701.1 Food in a hermetically sealed container shall be obtained from a food processing plant that is regulated by FDA in accordance with Section 704 of the Federal Food Act (21 U.S.C. § 374) – Factory Inspection; and the state regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the plant. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 702 SOURCES ─ FLUID MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS

702.1 Fluid milk and milk products shall be obtained from sources that comply with the requirements of the Grade “A” Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (Grade “A” PMO), 2009 Revision recommended by the U.S. Health Service/ Food and Drug Administration (USPHS/FDA), and who are issued permits by state regulatory agencies participating in the voluntary Cooperative State-USPHS/FDA Program for the Certification of Interstate Milk Shippers.P The 2009 version of the Grade “A” PMO is incorporated by reference.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 703 SOURCES ─ FISH

703.1 Fish that are received for sale or service shall be commercially and legally caught or harvested, or approved for sale or service. P

703.2 Molluscan shellfish that are recreationally caught shall not be received for sale or service. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 704 SOURCES ─ MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH

704.1 Molluscan shellfish shall be obtained from sources according to law and the requirements specified in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Food and Drug Administration, National Shellfish Sanitation Program Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish: 2009 Revision. P This Guide is incorporated by reference.

704.2 Molluscan shellfish received in interstate commerce shall be from sources that are listed in the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 705 SOURCES ─ WILD MUSHROOMS

705.1 Except as specified in § 705.2, mushroom species picked in the wild shall be obtained from approved sources where each mushroom is individually inspected and found to be safe by an approved mushroom identification expert who has successfully completed a wild mushroom identification course provided by either an accredited college or university or a mycological society. P

705.2 This section does not apply to:

(a) Cultivated wild mushroom species that are grown, harvested, and processed in an operation that is regulated according to the United States Standards for Grades of Mushrooms 1966 (Reprinted 1997) by the food regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the operation; or

(b) Wild mushroom species if they are in packaged form and are the product of a food processing plant that is regulated according to the United States Standards for Grades of Mushrooms 1966 (Reprinted 1997) by the food regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 706 SOURCES ─ GAME ANIMALS

706.1 If game animals are received for sale or service, they shall be commercially raised for food, and shall be:

(a) Raised, slaughtered, and processed under a voluntary inspection program that is; regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA/ FSIS) Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. § 661) – Meat Inspection or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P

(b) Under a routine inspection program regulated by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. § 661) – Meat Inspection or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P and

(c) Raised, slaughtered, and processed according to:

(1) Laws governing meat and poultry as determined by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603 and 604) – Meat Inspection or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P and

(2) Requirements which are developed by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603, 604, and 661) – Meat Inspection; or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; including consideration of factors such as the need for antemortem and postmortem examination by an approved veterinarian or veterinarian’s designee. P

706.2 If game animals are received for sale or service they shall be under a voluntary inspection program administered by the USDA for game animals such as exotic animals (reindeer, elk, deer, antelope, water buffalo, or bison) that are "inspected and approved" in accordance with 9 C.F.R. § 352 − Exotic Animal; Voluntary Inspection, or rabbits that are "inspected and certified" in accordance with 9 C.F.R. § 354 − Voluntary Inspection of Rabbits And Edible Products Thereof. P

706.3 If wild game animals are live-caught and received for sale or service, as allowed by law, they shall be: P

(a) Under a routine inspection program regulated by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603 and 604) – Meat Inspection; or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P and

(b) Slaughtered and processed according to:

(1) Laws governing meat and poultry as determined by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603 and 604) – Meat Inspection; Poultry Products Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. § 454), or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P and

(2) Requirements developed by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603, 604, and 661) – Meat Inspection, or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant including consideration of factors such as the need for antemortem and postmortem examination by an approved veterinarian or veterinarian’s designee. P

706.4 If field-dressed wild game animals are received for sale or service, as allowed by law, they shall be under a routine inspection program that ensures the animals:

(a) Receive a postmortem examination by an approved veterinarian or veterinarian's designee; P or

(b) Are field-dressed and transported according to requirements specified by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603, 604, and 661) – Meat Inspection, or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; and

(c) Are processed according to laws governing meat and poultry as determined by the USDA/ FSIS Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 603, 604, and 661) – Meat Inspection; USDA/ FSIS Poultry Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. §§ 451, 454, 455, and 456) - Poultry Inspection, or the state agency that has jurisdiction over the plant; P

706.5 A game animal may not be received for sale or service if it is a species of wildlife that is listed in 50 C.F.R. § 17 − Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 707 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ TEMPERATURE

707.1 Except as specified in § 707.2, refrigerated, potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) shall be at a temperature of five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or below when received. P

707.2 If a temperature other than five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) for a potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) is specified in law governing its distribution, such as laws governing milk and molluscan shellfish, the food may be received at the specified temperature.

707.3 Raw eggs shall be received in refrigerated equipment that maintains an ambient air temperature of seven degrees Celsius (7o C) (forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45o F)) or less. P

707.4 Potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is cooked to a temperature and for a time specified in §§ 900 through 902, and received hot shall be at a temperature of fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) or above. P

707.5 A food that is labeled frozen and shipped frozen by a food processing plant shall be received frozen. Pf

707.6 Upon receipt, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be free of evidence of previous temperature abuse. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 708 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ ADDITIVES

708.1 Food shall not contain unapproved food additives or additives that exceed amounts specified in 21 C.F.R. §§ 170 through 180 relating to food additives, generally recognized as safe, or prior sanctioned substances that exceed amounts specified in 21 C.F.R. §§ 181 through 186, substances that exceed amounts specified in 9 C.F.R. subpart C § 424.21(b) – Use of Food Ingredients and Sources of Radiation, or pesticides residues that exceed provisions in 40 C.F.R. § 180 – Tolerances for Pesticide Chemicals in Food, and exceptions. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 709 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ EGGS

709.1 Eggs shall be received clean and sound and may not exceed the restricted egg tolerances for U.S. Consumer Grade B as specified in United States Standards, Grades, and Weight Classes for Shell Eggs, AMS 56.200, et seq., administered by the Agricultural Marketing Service of USDA. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 710 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ EGGS AND MILK PRODUCTS, PASTEURIZED

710.1 Egg products shall be obtained pasteurized. P

710.2 Fluid and dry milk and milk products shall be obtained pasteurized and comply with Grade A Standards as specified by the USPHS/FDA recommended Grade “A” Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (Grade “A” PMO), 2009 Revision. P

710.3 Frozen milk products, such as ice cream, shall be obtained pasteurized as specified in 21 C.F.R. § 135 − Frozen Desserts. P

710.4 Cheese shall be obtained pasteurized unless alternative procedures to pasteurization are specified in the C.F.R., such as 21 C.F.R. § 133 − Cheeses and Related Cheese Products, for curing certain cheese varieties. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 711 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ PACKAGE INTEGRITY

711.1 Food packages shall be in good condition and protect the integrity of the contents so that the food is not exposed to adulteration or potential contaminants. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 712 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ ICE

712.1 Ice for use as a food or a cooling medium shall be made from drinking water. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 713 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ SHUCKED SHELLFISH, PACKAGING AND IDENTIFICATION

713.1 Raw shucked shellfish shall be obtained in nonreturnable packages which bear a legible label that identifies the: Pf

(a) Name, address, and certification number of the shucker, packer or repacker of the molluscan shellfish; Pf and

(b) The "sell by" or “best if used by” date for packages with a capacity of less than one and eighty-nine hundredths of a liter (1.89 L) (one-half gallon (1/2 gal.) or the date shucked for packages with a capacity of one and eighty-nine hundredths of a liter (1.89 L (one-half gallon)) or more. Pf

713.2 A package of raw shucked shellfish that does not bear a label or bears a label that does not contain all the information specified in § 713.1 shall be subject to an embargo order, as allowed by § 4702, or seizure and destruction in accordance with 21 C.F.R. subpart D − Specific Administrative Decisions Regarding Interstate Shipments, § 1240.60(d) Molluscan Shellfish.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 714 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ SHELLSTOCK IDENTIFICATION

714.1 Shellstock shall be obtained in containers bearing legible source identification tags or labels that are affixed by the harvester or dealer that depurates, ships, or reships the shellstock, as specified in the National Shellfish Sanitation Program Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish, and that list the information in §§ 714.2 and 714.3. Pf

714.2 Except as specified in § 714.5, the harvester's tag or label shall list the following information in the following order: Pf

(a) The harvester's identification number that is assigned by the Shellfish Control Authority; Pf

(b) The date of harvesting; Pf

(c) The most precise identification of the harvest location or aquaculture site that is practicable based on the system of harvest area designations that is in use by the Shellfish Control Authority and including the abbreviation of the name of the state or country in which the shellfish are harvested; Pf

(d) The type and quantity of shellfish; Pf and

(e) The following statement in bold, capitalized type: "THIS TAG IS REQUIRED TO BE ATTACHED UNTIL CONTAINER IS EMPTY OR RETAGGED AND THEREAFTER KEPT ON FILE FOR 90 DAYS." Pf

714.3 Except as specified in § 714.6, the following information shall appear in the following order on each dealer’s tag or label: Pf

(a) The dealer's name and address, and the certification number assigned by the Shellfish Control Authority; Pf

(b) The original shipper's certification number, including the abbreviation of the name of the state or country in which the shellfish are harvested; Pf

(c) The same information as specified for a harvester's tag in § 714.2; Pf and

(d) The following statement in bold, capitalized type: "THIS TAG IS REQUIRED TO BE ATTACHED UNTIL CONTAINER IS EMPTY AND THEREAFTER KEPT ON FILE FOR 90 DAYS." Pf

714.4 A container of shellstock that does not bear a tag or label or that bears a tag or label that does not contain all the information specified in §§ 714.l through 714.3 shall be subject to an embargo order, as allowed by § 4702, or seizure and destruction in accordance with 21 C.F.R. subpart D − Specific Administrative Decisions Regarding Interstate Shipments, § 1240.60(d).

714.5 If a place is provided on the harvester's tag or label for a dealer's name, address, and certification number, the dealer's information shall be listed first.

714.6 If the harvester's tag or label is designed to accommodate each dealer's identification as specified in §§ 714.3(a) and (b), individual dealer tags or labels need not be provided.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 715 SPECIFICATIONS FOR RECEIVING ─ SHELLSTOCK, CONDITION

715.1 When received by a food establishment, shellstock shall be reasonably free of mud, dead shellfish, and shellfish with broken shells. Dead shellfish or shellstock with badly broken shells shall be discarded.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 716 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND RECORDS ─ MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH

716.1 Except as specified in §§ 716.2 and 716.3, molluscan shellfish may not be removed from the container in which they are received other than immediately before sale or preparation for service.

716.2 Shellstock may be removed from the container, in which they are received, displayed on drained ice, or held in a display container, and a quantity specified by a consumer may be removed from the display or display container and provided to the consumer if:

(a) The source of the shellstock on display is identified as specified in § 714 and recorded as specified in § 717; and

(b) The shellstock are protected from contamination.

716.3 Shucked shellfish may be removed from the container in which they were received and held in a display container from which individual servings are dispensed upon a consumer’s request if:

(a) The labeling information for the shellfish on display as specified in § 713 is retained and correlated to the date when, or dates during which, the shellfish are sold or served; and

(b) The shellfish are protected from contamination.

716.4 Shucked shellfish may be removed from the container in which they were received and repacked in consumer self service containers where allowed by law if:

(a) The labeling information for the shellfish is on each consumer self service container as specified in § 713 and §§ 1102.1 and 1102.2 (a) through (e);

(b) The labeling information as specified in § 713 is retained and correlated with the date when, or dates during which, the shellfish are sold or served;

(c) The labeling information and dates as specified in § 716.4(b) are maintained for ninety (90) days; and

(d) The shellfish are protected from contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 717 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND RECORDS ─ SHELLSTOCK, MAINTAINING IDENTIFICATION

717.1 Except as specified in § 717.4, shellstock tags or labels shall remain attached to the container in which the shellstock are received until the container is empty. Pf

717.2 The date when the last shellstock from the container is sold or served shall be recorded on the tag or label. Pf

717.3 The identity of the source of shellstock that are sold or served shall be maintained by retaining shellstock tags or labels for ninety (90) calendar days from the date that is recorded on the tag or labels, as specified in § 717.2 by using an approved record keeping system that keeps the tags or labels in chronological order correlated to the date that is recorded on the tag or label, as specified in § 717.2.Pf

717.4 If shellstock are removed from their tagged or labeled container, the identity and source of shellstock that are sold or served shall be maintained by:

(a) Preserving source identification by using a recordkeeping system as specified in § 717.3; Pf and

(b) Ensuring that shellstock from one (1) tagged or labeled container are not commingled with shellstock from another container with different certification numbers, different harvest dates, or different growing areas as identified on the tag or label before being ordered by the consumer. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 718 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND RECORDS ─ PULL DATES

718.1 All pasteurized fluid milk, fresh meat, poultry, fish, bread products, eggs, butter, cheese, cold meat cuts, mildly processed pasteurized products, and potentially hazardous foods sold in food-retail establishments which are pre-wrapped and not intended to be eaten on the premises of the food establishment shall have easily understood pull dates prominently displayed on their containers.

718.2 If any food that has a pull date is rewrapped, the new package shall retain the original pull date and the word “REWRAPPED” shall be prominent displayed on the package.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 719 COMMERCIAL PROCESSED ─ JUICE, TREATED

719.1 Pre-packaged juice shall:

(a) Be obtained from a processor with a HACCP system as specified in 21 CFR Part 120 Hazard Analysis and Critical Control (HACCP) SystemsPf ; and

(b) Be obtained pasteurized or otherwise treated to attain a five (5)-log reduction of the most resistant microorganism of public health significance as specified in 21 C.F.R. part 120.24 Process Controls. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A8 PROTECTION OF FOODS FROM CONTAMINATION AFTER RECEIVING

25-A DCMR § 800 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY EMPLOYEES ─ FROM HANDS

800.1 Food employees shall wash their hands as specified in § 401.

800.2 Except when washing fruits and vegetables as specified in § 806 or as specified in § 800.4 food employees shall not contact exposed, ready to eat food with their bare hands and shall use suitable utensils such as deli tissue, spatulas, tongs, single-use gloves or dispensing equipment. P

800.3 Food employees shall minimize bare hand and arm contact with exposed food that is not in a ready-to-eat form. Pf

800.4 Food employees not serving a highly susceptible population may contact exposed, ready-to-eat food with their bare hands if:

(a) The licensee obtains prior approval from the Department; and

(b) Written policies and procedures are maintained in the food establishment and are readily available at all times for use by employees and for the Department’s review upon request. The written policies and procedures shall include:

(1) For each bare hand contact procedure, listings of the specific ready-to-eat foods that are touched by bare hands;

(2) Diagrams and other information showing that handwashing facilities, installed, located, equipped, and maintained as specified in §§ 2406, 2411, 2414, 3001, 3002, and 3004, are in an easily accessible location and in close proximity to the work station where the bare hand contact procedure is conducted;

(3) A written employee health policy that details how the food establishment complies with Chapter 3, including:

(A) Documentation that food employees and conditional employees acknowledge that they are informed to report information about their health and activities as they relate to gastrointestinal symptoms and diseases that are transmittable through food as specified in §§ 300.1 through 300.7;

(B) Documentation that food employees and conditional employees acknowledge their responsibilities as specified in § 304; and

(C) Documentation that the person in charge acknowledges their responsibilities as specified in §§ 301, 302, 303, 305, 306, and 307;

(4) Documentation that food employees acknowledge that they have received training in:

(A) The risks of contacting the specific ready-to-eat foods with bare hands;

(B) Proper handwashing as specified in § 401;

(C) When to wash their hands as specified in § 402;

(D) Where to wash their hands as specified in § 404;

(E) Proper fingernail maintenance as specified in § 405;

(F) Prohibition of jewelry as specified in § 406; and

(G) Good hygienic practices as specified in §§ 500 through 504;

(5) Documentation that hands are washed before food preparation and as necessary to prevent cross contamination by food employees as specified in §§ 400, 401, 403, and 404 during all hours of operation when the specific ready-to-eat foods are prepared;

(6) Documentation that food employees contacting ready-to-eat food with bare hands use two (2) or more of the following control measures to provide additional safeguards to hazards associated with bare hand contact:

(A) Double handwashing;

(B) A hand antiseptic after handwashing as specified in § 405;

(C) Incentive programs such as paid sick leave that assist or encourage food employees not to work when they are ill; or

(D) Other control measures approved by the Department; and

(7) Documentation that corrective action is taken when the requirements of § 800.4(a) and (b) are not followed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 801 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY EMPLOYEES ─ WHEN TASTING

801.1 A food employee shall not use a utensil more than once to taste food that is to be sold or served. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 802 PREVENTING CROSS CONTAMINATION ─ SEPARATION, PACKAGING AND SEGREGATION

802.1 Food shall be protected from cross contamination by:

(a) Except as specified in § 802.1(a)(3), separating raw animal foods during storage, preparation, holding, and display from:

(1) Raw ready-to-eat food including other raw animal food such as fish for sushi or molluscan shellfish, or other raw ready-to-eat food such as fruits and vegetables; P and

(2) Cooked ready-to-eat food;P and

(3) Frozen, commercially processed and packaged raw animal food may be stored or displayed with or above frozen, commercially processed and packaged, ready-to eat food;

(b) Except when combined as ingredients, separating types of raw animal foods from each other such as beef, fish, lamb, pork, and poultry during storage, preparation, holding, and display by:

(1) Using separate equipment for each type; P or

(2) Arranging each type of food in equipment so that cross contamination of one type with another is prevented, and

(3) Preparing each type of food at different times or in separate areas; P

(c) Cleaning equipment and utensils as specified in § 1901 and sanitizing as specified in § 2002;

(d) Except as specified in § 802.2, storing the food in packages, covered containers, or wrappings;

(e) Cleaning hermetically sealed containers of food of visible soil before opening;

(f) Protecting food containers that are received packaged together in a case or overwrap from cuts when the case or overwrap is opened;

(g) Storing damaged, spoiled, or recalled food being held in the food establishment as specified in § 3103; and

(h) Separating fruits and vegetables, before they are washed as specified in § 806 from ready-to-eat food.

802.2 Subsection 802.1(d) does not apply to:

(a) Whole, uncut, raw fruits and vegetables and nuts in the shell, that requires peeling or hulling before consumption;

(b) Primal cuts, quarters, or sides of raw meat or slab bacon that are hung on clean, sanitized hooks or placed on clean, sanitized racks;

(c) Whole, uncut, processed meats such as country hams, and smoked or cured sausages that are placed on clean, sanitized racks;

(d) Food being cooled as specified in § 1004.2(b); or

(e) Shellstock.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 803 PREVENTING FOOD AND INGREDIENT CONTAMINATION ─ FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS, IDENTIFIED WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD

803.1 Working containers holding food or food ingredients that are removed from their original packages for use in the food establishment, such as cooking oils, flour, herbs, potato flakes, salt, spices, and sugar shall be identified with the common name of the food, except that containers holding food that can be readily and unmistakably recognized, such as dry pasta, need not be identified.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 804 PREVENTING FOOD AND INGREDIENT CONTAMINATION ─ PASTEURIZED EGGS, SUBSTITUTE FOR RAW SHELL EGGS FOR CERTAIN RECIPES

804.1 Pasteurized eggs or egg products shall be substituted for raw eggs in the preparation of foods such as Caesar salad, hollandaise or Béarnaise sauce, mayonnaise, meringue, eggnog, ice cream, and egg-fortified beverages that are not: P

(a) Cooked as specified in § 900.1(a) or (b); P or

(b) Included in § 900.3(a). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 805 PREVENTING FOOD AND INGREDIENT CONTAMINATION ─ PROTECTION FROM UNAPPROVED ADDITIVES

805.1 Food shall be protected from contamination that may result from the addition of, as specified in § 708:

(a) Unsafe or unapproved food or color additives; P and

(b) Unsafe or unapproved levels of approved food and color additives. P

805.2 A food employee shall not:

(a) Apply sulfiting agents to fresh fruits and vegetables intended for raw consumption or to a food considered to be a good source of vitamin B1; P or

(b) Serve or sell food specified in § 805.2(a) that is treated with sulfating agents before receipt by the food establishment, except that grapes are not included in this subsection.P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 806 PREVENTING FOOD AND INGREDIENT CONTAMINATION ─ WASHING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

806.1 Raw fruits and vegetables shall be thoroughly washed in water to remove soil and other contaminants before being cut, combined with other ingredients, cooked, served, or offered for human consumption in ready-to-eat form except as specified in § 806.2 and except that whole, raw fruits and vegetables that are intended for washing by the consumer before consumption need not be washed before they are sold.

806.2 Fruits and vegetables may be washed by using chemicals as specified in § 3405.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 807 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM ICE USED AS EXTERIOR COOLANT ─ PROHIBITED AS AN INGREDIENT

807.1 After use as a medium for cooling the exterior surfaces of food such as melons or fish, packaged foods such as canned beverages, or cooling coils and tubes of equipment, ice shall not be used as food. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 808 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS ─ STORAGE OR DISPLAY OF FOOD IN CONTACT WITH WATER OR ICE

808.1 Packaged food shall not be stored in direct contact with ice or water if the food is subject to the entry of water because of the nature of its packaging, wrapping, or container or its positioning in the ice or water.

808.2 Except as specified in §§ 808.3 and 808.4, unpackaged food shall not be stored in direct contact with undrained ice.

808.3 Whole, raw fruits or vegetables; cut, raw vegetables such as celery or carrot sticks or cut potatoes; and tofu may be immersed in ice or water.

808.4 Raw poultry and raw fish that are received immersed in ice in shipping containers may remain in that condition while in storage awaiting preparation, display, service, or sale.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 809 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS ─ FOOD CONTACT WITH EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

809.1 Food shall only contact surfaces of:

(a) Equipment and utensils that are cleaned as specified in Chapter 19 and sanitized as specified in Chapter 20; P or

(b) Single-service and single-use articles. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 810 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM UTENSILS ─ IN-USE UTENSILS, BETWEEN-USE STORAGE

810.1 During pauses in food preparation or dispensing, food preparation and dispensing utensils shall be stored:

(a) Except as specified in § 810.1(b), in the food with their handles above the top of the food and the container;

(b) In food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food) with their handles above the top of the food within containers or equipment that can be closed, such as bins of sugar, flour, or cinnamon;

(c) On a clean portion of the food preparation table or cooking equipment only if the in-use utensil and the food contact surface of the food preparation table or cooking equipment are cleaned and sanitized at a frequency specified in §§ 1901 and 2001;

(d) In running water of sufficient velocity to flush particulates to the drain, if used with moist food such as ice cream or mashed potatoes;

(e) In a clean, protected location if the utensils, such as ice scoops, are used only with a food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food); or

(f) In a container of water if the water is maintained at a temperature of at least fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) and the container is cleaned at a frequency specified in § 1901.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 811 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM LINENS AND NAPKINS ─ USE LIMITATION

811.1 Linens and napkins may not be used in contact with food unless they are used to line a container for the service of foods and the linens and napkins are replaced each time the container is refilled for a new consumer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 812 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM WIPING CLOTHS ─ USE LIMITATION

812.1 Cloths that are in-use for wiping food spills from tableware and carry-out containers that occur as food is being served shall be:

(a) Maintained dry; and

(b) Used for no other purpose.

812.2 Cloths that are in-use for wiping counters and other equipment surfaces shall be:

(a) Held between uses in a chemical sanitizer solution at a concentration specified in § 1813; and

(b) Laundered daily as specified in § 2101.4.

812.3 Cloths that are in-use for wiping surfaces in contact with raw animal foods shall be kept separate from cloths used for other purposes.

812.4 Dry wiping cloths and the chemical sanitizing solutions specified in § 812.2(a) in which wet wiping cloths are held between uses shall be free of food debris and visible soil.

812.5 Containers of chemical sanitizing solutions specified in § 812.2(a) in which wet wiping cloths are held between uses shall be stored off the floor and used in a manner that prevents contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, single service, or single-use articles.

812.6 Single-use disposable sanitizer wipes shall be used in accordance with EPA approved manufacturer’s label use instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 813 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM GLOVES ─ USE LIMITATION

813.1 If used, single-use gloves shall be used for only one task such as working with ready-to-eat food or with raw animal food, used for no other purpose, and discarded when damaged or soiled, or when interruptions occur in the operation. P

813.2 Except as specified in § 813.3, slash-resistant gloves that are used to protect the hands during operations requiring cutting shall be used in direct contact only with food that is subsequently cooked as specified in chapter 9 such as frozen food or a primal cut of meat.

813.3 Slash-resistant gloves may be used with ready-to-eat food that will not be subsequently cooked if the slash-resistant gloves have a smooth, durable, and nonabsorbent outer surface; or if the slash-resistant gloves are covered with a smooth, durable, nonabsorbent glove, or a single-use glove.

813.4 Cloth gloves may not be used in direct contact with food unless the food is subsequently cooked as required in chapter 9 such as frozen food or a primal cut of meat.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 814 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM TABLEWARE ─ USING CLEAN TABLEWARE FOR SECOND PORTIONS AND REFILLS

814.1 Except for refilling a consumer’s drinking cup or container without contact between the pouring utensil and the lip-contact area of the drinking cup or container, food employees may not use tableware, including single-service articles, soiled by the consumer to provide second portions or refills.

814.2 Except as specified in § 814.3, self-service consumers shall not be allowed to use soiled tableware, including single-service articles, to obtain additional food from the display and serving equipment.

814.3 Self-service consumers may reuse drinking cups and containers if refilling is a contamination- free process as specified in §§ 1515.1, 1515.2, and 1515.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 815 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ REFILLING RETURNABLES

815.1 A take-home food container returned to a food establishment shall not be refilled at a food establishment with a potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food).

815.2 Except as specified in § 815.3, a take-home food container refilled with food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food) may be refilled as specified in § 1910.2.

815.3 Personal take-out beverage containers, such as thermally insulated bottles, nonspill coffee cups and promotional beverage glasses, may be refilled by employees or the consumer if refilling is a contamination-free process as specified in §§ 1515.1, 1515.2, and 1515.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 816 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM THE PREMISES ─ FOOD STORAGE

816.1 Except as specified in §§ 816.2 and 816.3, food shall be protected from contamination by storing the food:

(a) In a clean, dry location;

(b) Where it is not exposed to splash, dust, or other contamination; and

(c) At least fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) above the floor.

816.2 Food in packages and working containers may be stored less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) above the floor on case lot handling equipment as specified in § 1534.

816.3 Pressurized beverage containers, cased food in waterproof containers such as bottles or cans, and milk containers in plastic crates may be stored on a floor that is clean and not exposed to floor moisture.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 817 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM THE PREMISES ─ FOOD STORAGE, PROHIBITED AREAS

817.1 Food may not be stored:

(a) In locker rooms;

(b) In toilet rooms;

(c) In dressing rooms;

(d) In garbage rooms;

(e) In mechanical rooms;

(f) Under sewer lines that are not shielded to intercept potential drips;

(g) Under leaking water lines, including leaking automatic fire sprinkler heads, or under lines on which water has condensed;

(h) Under open stairwells; or

(i) Under other sources of contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 818 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM THE PREMISES ─ VENDED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/ TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD), ORIGINAL CONTAINER

818.1 Potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) dispensed through a vending machine shall be in the package in which it was placed at the food establishment or food processing plant at which it was prepared.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 819 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM THE PREMISES ─ FOOD PREPARATION

819.1 During preparation, unpackaged food shall be protected from environmental sources of contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 820 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY CONSUMERS ─ FOOD DISPLAY

820.1 Except for nuts in the shell and whole, raw fruits and vegetables that are intended for hulling, peeling, or washing by the consumer before consumption, food on display shall be protected from contamination by the use of: packaging; counter, service line, or salad bar food guards; display cases; or other effective means. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 821 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY CONSUMERS ─ CONDIMENTS, PROTECTION

821.1 Condiments shall be protected from contamination by being kept in dispensers that are designed to provide protection, protected food displays provided with the proper utensils, original containers designed for dispensing, or other individual packages or portions.

821.2 Condiments at a vending machine location shall be in individual packages or provided in dispensers that are filled at an approved location, such as the food establishment that provides food to the vending machine location, a food processing plant that is regulated by the agency that has jurisdiction over the operation, or a properly equipped facility that is located on the site of the vending machine location.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 822 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY CONSUMERS ─ CONSUMER SELF-SERVICE OPERATIONS

822.1 Raw, unpackaged animal food, such as beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and fish shall not be offered for consumer self-service. This subsection does not apply to consumer self-service of ready-to-eat foods at buffets or salad bars that serve foods such as sushi or raw shellfish, ready-to-cook individual portions for immediate cooking and consumption on the premises such as consumer-cooked meats or consumer-selected ingredients for Mongolian barbecue, or raw, frozen, shell-on shrimp or lobster.

822.2 Consumer self-service operations for ready-to-eat foods shall be provided with suitable utensils or effective dispensing methods that protect the food from contamination. Pf

822.3 Consumer self-service operations such as buffets and salad bars shall be monitored by food employees trained in safe operating procedures. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 823 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY CONSUMERS ─ RETURNED FOOD, RESERVICE OF FOOD

823.1 Except as specified in § 823.2, after being served or sold and in the possession of a consumer, food that is unused or returned by the consumer shall not be offered as food for human consumption. P

823.2 Except as specified in § 1300.9, a container of food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food) may be re-served from one consumer to another if:

(a) The food is dispensed so that it is protected from contamination and the container is closed between uses, such as a narrow-neck bottle containing catsup, steak sauce, or wine; or

(b) The food, such as crackers, salt, or pepper, is in an unopened original package and is maintained in sound condition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 824 PREVENTING MISCELLANEOUS SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION

824.1 Food shall be protected from contamination that may result from a factor or source not specified in §§ 800 through 823.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A9 DESTRUCTION OF ORGANISMS OF PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN

25-A DCMR § 900 COOKING ─ RAW ANIMAL FOODS

900.1 Except as specified in §§ 900.2, 900.3, and 900.4, raw animal foods such as eggs, fish, meat, poultry, and foods containing these raw animal foods, shall be cooked to heat all parts of the food to a temperature and for a time that complies with one of the following methods based on the food that is being cooked:

(a) Sixty-three degrees Celsius (63o C) (one hundred forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (145o F)) or above for fifteen (15) seconds for: P

(1) Raw shell eggs that are broken and prepared in response to a consumer’s order and for immediate service; P and

(2) Fish and meat, including game animals commercially raised for food as specified in § 706.1(a) and game animals under a voluntary inspection program as specified in § 706.1(b); except as specified in §§ 900.1(b), and 900.1(c), and § 900.2; P

(b) Sixty-eight degrees Celsius (68o C) (one hundred fifty-five degrees Fahrenheit (155oF )) for fifteen (15) seconds or the temperature specified in the following chart that corresponds to the holding time for ratites, mechanically tenderized, and injected meats; the following if they are comminuted: fish, meat, game animals commercially raised for food as specified in § 706.1(a), and game animals under a voluntary inspection program as specified in § 706.1(b); and raw eggs that are not prepared as specified in § 900.1(a)(1): P

Minimum

Temperature Time

oC (oF)

63 (145)

3 minutes

66 (150)

1 minute

70 (158)

< 1 second (instantaneous)

; or

(c) Seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)) or above for fifteen (15) seconds for:

(1) Poultry, baluts, and wild game animals as specified in §§ 706.3 and 706.4; and

(2) Stuffed fish, stuffed meat, stuffed pasta, stuffed poultry, stuffed ratites, or stuffing containing fish, meat, poultry or ratites. P

900.2 Whole meat roasts, including beef, corned beef, lamb, pork, and cured pork roasts such as ham, shall be cooked:

(a) In an oven that is preheated to the temperature specified for the roast's weight in Chart A, and that is held at that temperature: Pf

CHART A ─ Oven Temperatures

Oven Type

Oven Temperature Based on Roast Weight

Less than 4.5 kg (10 lbs)

4.5 kg (10 lbs) or More

Still Dry

177oC (350oF) or more

121oC (250oF) or more

Convection

163oC (325oF) or more

121oC (250oF) or more

High Humidity1

121oC (250oF) or less

121oC (250oF) or less

1 Relative humidity greater than ninety percent (90%) for at least one (1) hour as measured in the cooking chamber or exit of the oven; or in a moisture-impermeable bag that provides one hundred percent (100%) humidity.

; and

(b) To heat all parts of the food to a temperature and for the holding time that corresponds to that temperature as specified in Chart B. P

CHART B ─ Internal Meat Temperatures

Temperature

oC (oF)

Time1

in Minutes

Temperature

oC (oF)

Time1

in Seconds

54.4 (130)

112

63.9 (147)

134

55.0 (131)

89

65.0 (149)

85

56.1 (133)

56

66.1 (151)

54

57.2 (135)

36

67.2 (153)

34

57.8 (136)

28

68.3 (155)

22

58.9 (138)

18

69.4 (157)

14

60.0 (140)

12

70.0 (158)

0

61.1 (142)

8

62.2 (144)

5

62.8 (145)

4

1Holding time may include postoven heat rise.

900.3 A raw animal food such as raw eggs, raw fish, raw-marinated fish, raw molluscan shellfish, or steak tartare; or a partially cooked food such as lightly cooked fish, soft cooked eggs, or rare meat other than whole-muscle, intact beef steaks as specified in § 900.4, may be served or offered for sale upon consumer request or selection in a ready-to-eat form under the following conditions:

(a) If the food establishment serves a population that is not a highly susceptible population, and the consumer is informed as specified in § 1105 that to ensure the safety of the food, it should be cooked as specified in §§ 900.1 or 900.2; and

(b) The food, if served or offered for service by consumer selection from a children’s menu, does not contain comminuted meat; or Pf

(c) If the food establishment serves a population that is not a highly susceptible population and the Department grants a variance from §§ 900.1 and 900.2 as specified in § 4102 based on a HACCP Plan that:

(1) Is submitted by the licensee and approved as specified in §§ 4103 and 4104;

(2) Documents scientific data or other information showing that a lesser time and temperature regimen results in a safe food; and

(3) Verifies that equipment and procedures for food preparation and training of food employees at the food establishment meet the conditions of the variance.

900.4 A raw or undercooked whole-muscle, intact beef steak may be served or offered for sale in a ready-to-eat form if:

(a) The food establishment serves a population that is not a highly susceptible population;

(b) The steak is labeled to indicate that it meets the definition of "whole muscle, intact beef" as specified in § 700.5; and

(c) The steak is cooked on both the top and bottom to a surface temperature of sixty-three degrees Celsius (63o C) (one hundred forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (145o F)) or above and a cooked color change is achieved on all external surfaces.

900.5 Raw animal foods that are cooked using a non-continuous cooking process shall be:

(a) Subject to an initial heating process that is no longer than sixty (60) minutes in duration; P

(b) Immediately after initial heating, cooled according to the time and temperature parameters specified for cooked potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) as specified in § 1003.1; P

(c) After cooling, held frozen or cold, as specified for potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) in § 1005.1(b); P

(d) Prior to sale or service, cooked using a process that heats all parts of the food to a temperature of at least seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)) for fifteen (15) seconds; P

(e) Cooled according to the time and temperature parameters specified for cooked potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) as specified in § 1003.1 if not either hot held as specified in § 1005.1, served immediately, or held using time as a public health control as specified in § 1009 after complete cooking; P and

(f) Prepared and stored according to written procedures that:

(1) Have obtained prior approval from the Department; Pf

(2) Are maintained in the food establishment and are available to the Department upon request; Pf

(3) Describe how the requirements specified in § 900.5.1(a) through (e) are to be monitored and documented by the permit holder and the corrective actions to be taken if the requirements are not met; Pf

(4) Describe how the foods, after initial heating, but prior to complete cooking, are to be marked or otherwise identified as foods that must be cooked as specified in § 900.5(d) prior to being offered for sale or service; Pf and

(5) Describe how the foods, after initial heating but prior to cooking as specified in § 900.5(d), are to be separated from ready-to-eat foods as specified in § 802.1(a)(2). Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 901 COOKING ─ MICROWAVE COOKING

901.1 Raw animal foods cooked in a microwave oven shall be:

(a) Rotated during cooking, stirred throughout cooking, or stirred midway during cooking to compensate for uneven distribution of heat;

(b) Covered to retain surface moisture;

(c) Heated to a temperature of at least seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)) in all parts of the food; and

(d) Allowed to stand covered for two (2) minutes after cooking to obtain temperature equilibrium.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 902 COOKING ─ PLANT FOOD COOKING FOR HOT HOLDING

902.1 Fruits and vegetables fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) that are cooked for hot holding shall be cooked to a temperature of. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 903 FREEZING ─ PARASITE DESTRUCTION

903.1 Except as specified in § 903.2, before service or sale in ready-to-eat form, raw, raw-marinated, partially cooked, or marinated-partially cooked fish other than molluscan shellfish shall be:

(a) Frozen and stored at a temperature of minus twenty degrees Celsius (-20o C) (minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (- 4o F)) or below for a minimum of one hundred sixty-eight (168) hours or seven (7) days in a freezer; P

(b) Frozen at minus thirty-five degrees Celsius (-35o C) (minus thirty-one degrees Fahrenheit (-31o F)) or below until solid and stored at minus thirty-five degrees Celsius (-35o C) or below for a minimum of fifteen (15) hours; P or

(c) Frozen at minus thirty-five degrees Celsius (-35o C) (minus thirty-one degrees Fahrenheit (-31o F)) or below until solid and stored at minus twenty degrees Celsius (-20o C) (minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (- 4o F) or below for a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours. P

903.2 Subsection 903.1 does not apply to:

(a) Molluscan shellfish;

(b) Tuna of the species Thunnus alalunga, Thunnus albacares (Yellowfin tuna), Thunnus atlanticus, Thunnus maccoyii (Bluefin tuna, Southern), Thunnus obesus (Bigeye tuna), or Thunnus thynnus (Bluefin tuna, Northern); or

(c) Aquacultured fish, such as salmon, that:

(1) If raised in open water, are raised in net-pens, or

(2) Are raised in land-based operations such as ponds or tanks, and

(3) Are fed formulated feed, such as pellets, that contain no live parasites infective to the aquacultured fish.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 904 FREEZING ─ RECORDS, CREATION, AND RETENTION

904.1 Except as specified in §§ 903.2 and 904.2, if raw, raw-marinated, partially cooked, or marinated-partially cooked fish are served or sold in ready-to-eat form, the person in charge shall record the freezing temperature and time to which the fish are subjected and shall retain these records in the food establishment for ninety (90) calendar days beyond the time of service or sale of the fish. Pf

904.2 If the fish are frozen by a supplier, a written agreement or statement from the supplier stipulating that the fish supplied are frozen to a temperature and for a time specified in § 903 may substitute for the records specified in § 904.1.

904.3 If raw, raw-marinated, partially cooked, or marinated-partially cooked fish are served or sold in ready-to-eat form, and the fish are raised and fed as specified in § 903.2(c), a written agreement or statement from the supplier or aquaculturist stipulating that the fish were raised and fed as specified in § 903.2(c) shall be obtained by the person in charge and retained in the records of the food establishment for ninety (90) calendar days beyond the time of service or sale of the fish. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 905 PREPARATION FOR IMMEDIATE SERVICE

905.1 Cooked and refrigerated food that is prepared for immediate service in response to an individual consumer order, such as a roast beef sandwich au jus, may be served at any temperature.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 906 REHEATING ─ FOR HOT HOLDING

906.1 Except as specified in §§ 906.2, 906.3, and 906.5, potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) that is cooked, cooled, and reheated for hot holding shall be reheated so that all parts of the food reach a temperature of at least seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)) for fifteen (15) seconds. P

906.2 Except as specified under § 906.3, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) reheated in a microwave oven for hot holding shall be reheated so that all parts of the food reach a temperature of at least seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)) and the food is rotated or stirred, covered, and allowed to stand covered for two (2) minutes after reheating. P

906.3 Ready-to-eat food taken from a commercially processed, hermetically sealed container, or from an intact package from a food processing plant that is inspected by the food regulatory authority that has jurisdiction over the plant, shall be heated to a temperature of at least fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) for hot holding. P

906.4 Reheating for hot holding as specified in §§ 906.1, 906.2, and 906.3 shall be done rapidly and the time the food is between five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) and the temperatures specified in §§ 906.1, 906.2 and 906.3 shall not exceed two (2) hours. P

906.5 Remaining unsliced portions of roasts of beef that are cooked as specified in § 900.2 may be reheated for hot holding using the oven parameters and minimum time and temperature conditions specified in § 900.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 907 OTHER REHEATING METHODS ─ TREATING JUICE

907.1 Juice packaged in a food establishment shall be:

(a) Treated under a HACCP Plan as specified in §§ 4205.1(b) through (e) to attain a five (5)-log reduction, which is equal to a ninety-nine and nine hundredths and ninety-nine tenth of a percent (99.999%) reduction, of the most resistant microorganism of public health significance; P or

(b) Labeled, if not treated to yield a five (5)-log reduction of the most resistant microorganism of public health significance: Pf

(1) As specified in § 1102; Pf and

(2) As specified in 21 C.F.R. § 101.17(g) Food Labeling, Warning, Notice, and Safe Handling Statements, juices that have not been specifically processed to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the presence of pathogens with the following, “Warning: This product has not been pasteurized and, therefore, may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.” Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A10 LIMITATION OF GROWTH OF ORGANISMS OF PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN

25-A DCMR § 1000 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ FROZEN FOOD

1000.1 Stored frozen foods shall be maintained frozen.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1001 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD), SLACKING

1001.1 Frozen potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is slacked to moderate the temperature shall be held:

(a) Under refrigeration that maintains the food temperature at five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less; or

(b) At any temperature if the food remains frozen.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1002 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ THAWING

1002.1 Except as specified in § 1002.5, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be thawed under refrigeration that maintains the food temperature at five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less; or:

(a) Completely submerged under running water:

(1) At a water temperature of twenty-one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)) or below;

(2) With sufficient water velocity to agitate and float off loose particles in an overflow;

(3) For a period of time that does not allow thawed portions of ready- to-eat food to rise above five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)); or

(4) For a period of time that does not allow thawed portions of a raw animal food requiring cooking as specified in §§ 900.1 and 900.2 to be above five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)), or seven degrees Celsius (7o C) (forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45o F)) as specified in §§ 900.1 and 900.2, for more than four (4) hours including the time the food is exposed to the running water and the time needed for preparation for cooking, or the time it takes under refrigeration to lower the food temperature to five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F));

(b) As a part of a cooking process if the food that is frozen is:

(1) Cooked as specified in §§ 900.1, 900.2 or § 901; or

(2) Thawed in a microwave oven and immediately transferred to conventional cooking equipment, with no interruption in the process; or

(c) Using any procedure if a portion of frozen ready-to-eat food is thawed and prepared for immediate service in response to an individual consumer’s order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1003 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ COOLING

1003.1 Cooked potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be cooled:

(a) Within two (2) hours, from fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) to twenty-one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)); P and

(b) Within six (6) hours, from fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F) to five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less. P

1003.2 Potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be cooled within four (4) hours to five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less if prepared from ingredients at ambient temperature, such as reconstituted foods and canned tuna. P

1003.3 Except as specified in § 1003.4, a potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) received in compliance with laws allowing a temperature above five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) during shipment from the supplier as specified in § 707.2, shall be cooled within four (4) hours to five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less.P

1003.4 Raw eggs shall be received as specified in § 707.3 and immediately placed in refrigerated equipment that maintains an ambient air temperature of seven degrees Celsius (7o C) (forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45o F)) or less. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1004 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ COOLING METHODS

1004.1 Cooling shall be accomplished in accordance with the time and temperature criteria specified in § 1003 by using one (1) or more of the following methods based on the type of food being cooled:

(a) Placing the food in shallow pans; Pf

(b) Separating the food into smaller or thinner portions; Pf

(c) Using rapid cooling equipment; Pf

(d) Stirring the food in a container placed in an ice water bath; Pf

(e) Using containers that facilitate heat transfer; Pf

(f) Adding ice as an ingredient; Pf or

(g) Other effective methods. Pf

1004.2 When placed in cooling or cold holding equipment, food containers in which food is being cooled shall be:

(a) Arranged in the equipment to provide maximum heat transfer through the container walls; and

(b) Loosely covered or uncovered if protected from overhead contamination as specified in § 816.1(b), during the cooling period to facilitate heat transfer from the surface of the food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1005 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD) HOT AND COLD HOLDING

1005.1 Except during preparation, cooking, or cooling, or when time is used as the public health control as specified in § 1009, potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) shall be maintained:

(a) At fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) or above, except that roasts cooked to a temperature and for a time specified in § 900.2 or reheated as specified in § 906.5 may be held at a temperature of fifty-four degrees Celsius (54o C) (one hundred thirty degrees Fahrenheit (130o F)) or above; P or

(b) At five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less. P

1005.2 Eggs that have not been treated to destroy all viable Salmonellae shall be stored in refrigerated equipment that maintains an ambient air temperature of seven degrees Celsius (7o C) (forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45o F)) or less. P

1005.3 Potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) in a homogenous liquid form may be maintained outside of the temperature control requirements, as specified in § 1005.1, while contained within specifically designed equipment that complies with the design and construction requirements as specified in § 1515.5

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1006 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD), DISPLAY

1006.1 Potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is displayed on drained ice, or held in a display container, and is exposed to exterior temperatures either inside the food establishment or outdoors shall comply with § 1005. P

1006.2 If equipment in place does not maintain proper temperatures for potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) identified in § 1005.1, the Department may order the repair, replacement or purchase of National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) approved or NSF equivalent equipment. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1007 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ READY-TO-EAT, POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/ TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD), DATE MARKING

1007.1 Except when packaging food using a reduced oxygen packaging method as specified in § 1011, and except as specified in §§ 1007.4 and 1007.5, refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) prepared and held in a food establishment for more than twenty-four (24) hours shall be clearly marked to indicate the date or day by which the food shall be consumed on the premises, sold, or discarded when held at a temperature of five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less for a maximum of seven (7) days. Pf

1007.2 Except as specified in §§ 1007.4 through 1007.6, a container of refrigerated, ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) prepared and packaged by a food processing plant shall be clearly marked, at the time the original container is opened in a food establishment and if the food is held for more than twenty-four (24) hours, to indicate the date or day by which the food shall be consumed on the premises, sold, or discarded based on the temperature and time combinations specified in § 1007.1 and: Pf

(a) The day the original container is opened in the food establishment shall be counted as Day 1; Pf and

(b) The day or date marked by the food establishment may not exceed a manufacturer’s use-by-date if the manufacturer determined the use- by date based on food safety. Pf

1007.3 A refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) ingredient or a portion of a refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is subsequently combined with additional ingredients or portions of food shall retain the date marking of the earliest-prepared or first-prepared ingredient. Pf

1007.4 A date marking system that meets the criteria stated in §§ 1007.1 and 1007.2 may include:

(a) Using a for refrigerated, ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is frequently rewrapped, such as lunchmeat or a roast, or for which date marking is impractical, such as soft service mix or milk in a dispensing machine;

(b) Marking the date or day of preparation, with a procedure to discard the food on or before the last date or day by which the food must be consumed on the premises, sold, or discarded as specified in § 1007.1;

(c) Marking the date or day the original container is opened in a food establishment, with a procedure to discard the food on or before the last date or day by which the food must be consumed on the premises, sold, or discarded as specified in § 1007.2; or

(d) Using calendar dates, days of the week, color-coded marks, or other effective marking methods, provided that the marking system is disclosed to the Department upon request.

1007.5 Subsections 1007.1 and 1007.2, do not apply to individual meal portions served or repackaged for sale from a bulk container upon a consumer’s request.

1007.6 Subsection 1007.2 does not apply to the following foods prepared and packaged by a food processing plant inspected by a regulatory authority:

(a) Deli salads, such as ham, seafood salad, chicken salad, egg salad, pasta salad, potato salad, and macaroni salad, manufactured in accordance with 21 C.F.R. § 110 Current good manufactured practice in manufacturing, packing, or holding human food;

(b) Hard cheeses containing not more than thirty-nine percent (39%) moisture as defined in 21 C.F.R. § 133 - Cheeses and related cheese products, such as cheddar, gruyere, parmesan and reggiano, and romano;

(c) Semi-soft cheeses containing more than thirty-nine percent (39%) moisture, but not more than fifty percent (50%) moisture, as defined in 21 C.F.R. § 133 - Cheeses and related cheese products, such as blue, edam, gorgonzola, gouda, and monterey jack;

(d) Cultured dairy products as defined in 21 C.F.R. § 131 - Milk and cream, such as yogurt, sour cream, and buttermilk;

(e) Preserved fish products, such as pickled herring and dried or salted cod, and other acidified fish products defined in 21 C.F.R. § 114 – Acidified foods;

(f) Shelf stable, dry fermented sausages, such as pepperoni and Genoa salami that are not labeled “Keep Refrigerated” as specified in 9 C.F.R. § 317 - Labeling, marking devices, and containers, and which retain the original casing on the product; and

(g) Self stable salt-cured products such as prosciutto and Parma (ham) that are not labeled “Keep Refrigerated” as specified in 9 C.F.R. § 317 - Labeling, marking devices, and containers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1008 TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL ─ READY-TO-EAT, POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/ TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD), DISPOSITION

1008.1 A food specified in §§ 1007.1 or 1007.2 shall be discarded if it:

(a) Exceeds either of the temperature and time combinations specified in § 1007.1, excluding time that the product is frozen; P

(b) Is in a container or package that does not bear a date or day; P or

(c) Is appropriately marked with a date or day that exceeds a temperature and time combination as specified in § 1007.1. P

1008.2 Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) prepared in a food establishment and dispensed through a vending machine with an automatic shutoff control shall be discarded if it exceeds a temperature and time combination as specified in § 1007.1. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1009 TIME AS A PUBLIC HEALTH CONTROL

1009.1 Except as specified in § 1009.4, if time without temperature control is used as the public health control for a working supply of potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) before cooking, or for ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is displayed or held for sale or service:

(a) Written procedures shall be prepared in advance, maintained in the food establishment and made available to the Department upon request and shall specify: Pf

(1) Methods of compliance with §§ 1009.2(a) through 1009.2(c) or § 1009.3; Pf and

(2) Methods of compliance with § 1003 for food that is prepared, cooked, and refrigerated before time is used as a public health control. Pf

1009.2 If time temperature control is used as the public health control up to a maximum of four (4) hours:

(a) The food shall have an initial temperature of five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less when removed from cold holding temperature control, or fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) or greater when removed from hot holding temperature control; P

(b) The food shall be marked or otherwise identified to indicate the time that is four (4) hours past the point in time when the food is removed from temperature control; Pf

(c) The food shall be cooked and served, served at any temperature if ready- to-eat, or discarded, within four (4) hours from the point in time when the food is removed from temperature control; P and

(d) The food in unmarked containers or packages, or marked to exceed a four (4)-hour limit shall be discarded. P

1009.3 If time temperature control is used as the public health control up to a maximum of six (6) hours:

(a) The food shall have an initial temperature of five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less when removed from temperature control and the food temperature shall not exceed and twenty- one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)) within a maximum time period of six (6) hours; P

(b) The food shall be monitored to ensure the warmest portion of the food does not exceed twenty-one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)) during the six hour (6 hr.) period, unless an ambient air temperature is maintained that ensures the food does not exceed twenty- one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)) during the six (6) hour holding period; Pf

(c) The food shall be marked or otherwise identified to indicate: Pf

(1) The time when the food is removed from five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less cold holding temperature control; Pf and

(2) The time that is six (6) hours past the point in time when the food is removed from cold holding temperature control; Pf

(d) The food shall be:

(1) Discarded if the temperature of the food exceeds twenty-one degrees Celsius (21o C) (seventy degrees Fahrenheit (70o F)); P or

(2) Cooked and served, served at any temperature if ready-to-eat, or discarded within a maximum of six (6) hours from the point in time when the food is removed from five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less cold holding temperature control; P and

(e) The food in unmarked containers or packages, or marked with a time that exceeds the six (6) hour limit shall be discarded. P

1009.4 A food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population shall not use time as specified in §§ 1009.1, 1009.2, or 1009.3 as the public health control for raw eggs.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1010 VARIANCE REQUIREMENT

1010.1 A food establishment shall obtain a variance from the Department as specified in §§ 4102, 4103, and 4104 before:

Smoking food as a method of food preservation rather than as a method of flavor enhancement; Pf

Curing food; Pf

Using food additives or adding components such as vinegar as a method of food preservation rather than as a method of flavor enhancement or to render a food so that it is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food); Pf

(d) Packaging food using a reduced oxygen method except where the growth of and toxin formation by Clostridium botulinum and the growth of Listeria monocytogenes are controlled as specified in § 1011; Pf

(e) Operating a molluscan shellfish life-support system display tank used to store or display shellfish that are offered for human consumption; Pf

(f) Custom processing animals that are for personal use as food and not for sale or service in a food establishment;

(g) Preparing food by another method that the Department determines requires a variance; Pf or

(h) Sprouting seeds or beans. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1011 SPECIALIZED PROCESSING METHODS ─ REDUCED OXYGEN PACKAGING, CRITERIA

1011.1 Except for a food establishment that obtains a variance as specified in § 1010, a food establishment that packages potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) using a reduced oxygen packaging method shall control the growth and toxin formation of Clostridium botulinum and the growth of Listeria monocytogenes. P

1011.2 A food establishment that packages potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) using a reduced oxygen packaging method shall have a HACCP Plan that contains the information specified in § 4205.1(d) and that: Pf

(a) Identifies the food to be packaged; Pf

(b) Except as specified in § 1011.3 through 1011.5 requires that the packaged food shall be maintained at five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or less and meet at least one (1) of the following criteria: Pf

(1) Has an aw of ninety-one tenths (0.91) or less; Pf

(2) Has a pH of four and six tenths (4.6) or less; Pf

(3) Is a meat or poultry product cured at a food processing plant regulated by the USDA using substances specified in 9 C.F.R. subpart C § 424.21(b) − Food ingredients and sources of radiation, and is received in an intact package; Pf or

(4) Is a food with a high level of competing organisms such as raw meat, raw poultry, or raw vegetables; Pf

(c) Describes how the packages shall be prominently and conspicuously labeled on the principal display panel in bold type on a contrasting background, with instructions to: Pf

(1) Maintain the food at five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) or below; Pf and

(2) Discard the food if within fourteen (14) calendar days of its packaging it is not served for on-premises consumption, or consumed if served or sold for off-premises consumption; Pf

(d) Limits the refrigerated shelf life to no more than fourteen (14) calendar days from packaging to consumption, except the time the product is maintained frozen, or the original manufacturer's "sell by" or "use by" date, whichever occurs first; P

(e) Includes operational procedures that:

(1) Prohibit contacting ready-to-eat food with bare hands as specified in § 800.2; Pf

(2) Identify a designated work area and the method by which physical barriers or methods of separation of raw foods and ready-to-eat foods minimize cross contamination, and access to the processing equipment is limited to responsible trained personnel familiar with the potential hazards of the operation; Pf and

(3) Delineate cleaning and sanitization procedures for food-contact surfaces; Pf and

(f) Describes the training program that ensures that the individual responsible for the reduced oxygen packaging operation understands the: Pf

(1) Concepts required for a safe operation; Pf

(2) Equipment and facilities; Pf and

(3) Procedures specified in § 1011.2(e) and § 4205.1(d). Pf

1011.3 Except for fish that is frozen before, during, and after packaging, a food establishment may not package fish using a reduced oxygen packaging method. P

1011.4 Except as specified in § 1011.3, a food establishment that packages food using a cook-chill or sous vide process shall:

(a) Implement a HACCP plan that contains the information as specified in § 4205.1(d); Pf

(b) Ensure the food is:

(1) Prepared and consumed on the premises, or prepared and consumed off the premises but within the same business entity with no distribution or sale of the packaged product to another business entity or the consumer; Pf

(2) Cooked to heat all parts of the food to a temperature and for a time as specified in § 900; P

(3) Protected from contamination before and after cooking as specified in Chapter 8; P

(4) Placed in a package with an oxygen barrier and sealed before cooking, or placed in a package and sealed immediately after cooking and before reaching a temperature below fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred and thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)); P

(5) Cooled to five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) in the sealed package or bag as specified in § 1003 and subsequently: P

(A) Cooled to one degrees Celsius (1o C) (thirty-four degrees Fahrenheit (34o F)) within forty-eight (48) hours of reaching five degrees Celsius (5oC) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) and held at that temperature until consumed or discarded within thirty (30) days after the date of packaging; P

(B) Cooled to one degrees Celsius (1o C) (thirty-four degrees Fahrenheit (34o F)) within forty-eight (48) hours of reaching five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)), removed from refrigeration equipment that maintains a one degree Celsius (1o C) (thirty-four degrees Fahrenheit (34o F)) food temperature and then held at 5o C (41o F) or less for no more than seventy-two (72) hours, at which time the food must be consumed or discarded; P

(C) Cooled three degrees Celsius (3o C) (thirty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (38o F)) or less within twenty-four (24) hours of reaching five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) and held there for no more than seventy-two (72) hours from packaging, at which time the food must be consumed or discarded; P or

(D) Held frozen with no shelf life restriction while frozen until consumed or used; P

(6) Held in a refrigeration unit that is equipped with an electronic system that continuously monitors time and temperature and is visually examined for proper operation twice daily; Pf

(7) If transported off-site to a satellite location of the same business entity, equipped with verifiable electronic monitoring devices to ensure that times and temperatures are monitored during transportation, Pf and

(8) Labeled with the product name and the date packaged; Pf and

(c) Maintain records required to confirm that cooling and cold holding refrigeration time/temperature parameters are required as part of the HACCP Plan, and:

(1) Make such records available to the Department upon request; Pf and

(2) Hold such records for at least six (6) months; Pf and

(d) Implement written operational procedures as specified in § 1011.2(e) and a training program as specified in § 1011.2(f). Pf

1011.5 A food establishment that packages cheese using a reduced oxygen packaging method shall:

(a) Limit the cheeses packaged to those that are commercially manufactured in a food processing plant with no ingredients added in the food establishment and that meet the Standards of Identity as specified in 21 C.F.R. § 133.150 Hard cheeses, 21 C.F.R. § 133.169 Pasteurized process cheese or 21 C.F.R. § 133.187 Semisoft cheeses; P

(b) Have a HACCP Plan that contains the information specified in § 4205.1(d) and as specified in §§ 1011.2(a), (c)(1), (e), and (f); Pf

(c) Labels the package on the principal display panel with a “use by” date that does not exceed thirty (30) days from its packaging or the original manufacturer’s “sell by” or “use by” date, whichever occurs first; Pf and

(d) Discards the reduced oxygen packaged cheese if it is not sold for off- premises consumption or consumed within thirty (30) calendar days of its packaging. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A11 FOOD IDENTITY, PRESENTATION, AND ON-PREMISES LABELING

25-A DCMR § 1100 ACCURATE REPRESENTATION ─ STANDARDS OF IDENTITY

1100.1 Packaged food shall comply with standard of identity requirements in 21 C.F.R. §§ 131 through 169 and 9 C.F.R. § 319 − Definitions and Standards of Identity or Composition, and the general requirements in 21 C.F.R. § 130 − Food Standards: General.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1101 ACCURATE REPRESENTATION ─ HONESTLY PRESENTED

1101.1 Food shall be offered for human consumption in a way that does not mislead or misinform the consumer.

1101.2 Food or color additives, colored overwraps, or lights may not be used to misrepresent the true appearance, color, or quality of a food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1102 FOOD LABELING REQUIREMENTS

1102.1 Food packaged in a food establishment, shall be labeled as specified in law, including 21 C.F.R. § 101 − Food labeling, and 9 C.F.R. § 317 − Labeling, marking devices, and containers.

1102.2 Label information shall include:

(a) The common name of the food, or absent a common name, an adequately descriptive identity statement;

(b) If made from two (2) or more ingredients, a list of ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight, including a declaration of artificial color or flavor and chemical preservatives, if contained in the food;

(c) An accurate declaration of the quantity of contents;

(d) The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor;

(e) The name of the food source for each major food allergen contained in the food unless the food source is already part of the common or usual name of the respective ingredient;

(f) Except as exempted in the Federal Food Act (21 U.S.C. § 343(q)(3) – (5)), nutrition labeling as specified in 21 C.F.R. § 101 − Food Labeling and 9 C.F.R. § 317 subpart B − Nutrition Labeling; and

(g) For any salmonid fish containing canthaxanthin as a color additive, the labeling of the bulk fish container, including a list of ingredients, displayed on the retail container or by other written means, such as a counter card, that discloses the use of canthaxanthin.

1102.3 Bulk food that is available for consumer self-dispensing shall be prominently labeled with the following information in plain view of the consumer:

(a) The manufacturer's or processor's label that was provided with the food; or

(b) A card, sign, or other method of notification that includes the information specified in §§ 1102.2(a), (b), and (e).

1102.4 Bulk, unpackaged foods such as bakery products and unpackaged foods that are portioned to consumer specification need not be labeled if:

(a) A health, nutrient content, or other claim is not made; and

(b) The food is manufactured or prepared on the premises of the food establishment or at another food establishment or a food processing plant that is owned by the same person and is regulated by the food regulatory agency that has jurisdiction.

1102.5 If required by law, consumer warnings shall be provided and food establishments or manufacturers’ dating information on foods may not be concealed or altered.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1103 FOOD LABELING REQUIREMENTS ─ COMMINUTED MEATS

1103.1 No person shall convey into the District, sell, offer for sale, or use any food that does not conform to this section.

1103.2 All products identified under this section as "Chopped Beef," "Breakfast Sausage," and "Ground Beef," "Hamburger," "Fabricated Steak," "Fresh Pork Sausage," or “Sausage” when they are labeled, advertised, or indicated to be "lean," "extra lean," or of lesser fat content than the maximum fat content for that product, as allowed by the USDA, shall, at the time offered for retail sale, display by percentage the fat content of each product, in accordance with this Code.

1103.3 Fat content shall be displayed on the package in which the product is sold, or shall be displayed on a sign placed conspicuously near the product.

1103.4 Display of fat content shall be in letters no smaller than one-eighth inch (1/8 in.) on packages and no smaller than one-half inch (1/2 in.) on signs.

1103.5 Comminuted meats if offered for sale as being a specific cut shall be labeled as such, shall be made solely from such cut, and shall not contain added fat.

1103.6 Meats that are labeled "Chopped Beef" or "Ground Beef" shall consist of comminuted meats which are fresh or frozen beef, or both, with or without seasoning, without the addition of beef fat and shall not contain added water, binders, extenders, color additives, preservatives, or more than thirty percent (30%) fat.

1103.7 Meats that are labeled “Hamburger” shall consist of comminuted fresh or frozen beef, or both, with or without the addition of beef fat or seasoning, and shall not contain added water, binders, extenders, color additives, or preservatives.

1103.8 Fabricated beef steaks, fabricated veal steaks, fabricated beef and veal steaks, and similar products, shall be prepared by comminuting and forming the product from fresh or frozen meat, or both, with or without added fat, and shall not contain added water, binders, color additives, extenders, hydrolyzed plant protein, or preservatives.

1103.9 Meats that are labeled "Fresh Pork Sausage" shall consist of comminuted fresh pork or frozen pork, or both, not including pork by-products, with or without seasoning added. To facilitate chopping or mixing, water or ice may be used in an amount not to exceed three percent (3%) of the total ingredients used. The product shall not contain color additives, preservatives, or more than fifty percent (50%) trimmable fat.

1103.10 Meats that are labeled "Breakfast Sausage" shall consist of comminuted fresh or frozen meat, or both, or meat and meat by-products, with or without seasoning added. To facilitate chopping or mixing, water or ice may be used in an amount not to exceed three percent (3%) of the total ingredients used. Extenders or binders may be used to the extent of three and a half percent (3.5%) of the finished sausage. The product shall not contain color additives, preservatives, or more than fifty percent (50%) fat.

1103.11 Meats that are labeled "Sausage", raw or cooked, shall consist of one (1) or more kinds of comminuted meat and meat by-products. The amounts of added water in raw sausage shall not exceed three percent (3%) of the total ingredients used. Raw sausage shall not contain color additives, preservatives, or more than fifty percent (50%) fat.

1103.12 In the case of cooked sausage, frankfurter, wiener, Vienna, bologna, garlic bologna, and knockwurst, the added water content shall not exceed ten percent (10%). The product may be seasoned and may contain binders and extenders (for example, cereal, vegetables, starch vegetable flour, soy flour, soy protein concentrate, non-fat dry milk, calcium reduced skim milk, or dried milk); provided, that the finished product contains not more than three and a half percent (3.5%) of these additives individually or collectively. The fat content shall not exceed thirty percent (30%).

1103.13 Packages in which raw and cooked sausages are sold shall be labeled as to the meat and meat by-products composition of the product in letters no smaller than one-eighth inch (1/8 in.). If such products are not sold in packages, signs bearing letters no smaller than one half inch (1/2 in.) shall be conspicuously posted nearby.

1103.14 Except where the manufacturer and the retail seller are under common ownership or control, it shall not be considered a violation of this section to sell at retail or offer for sale at retail, in the original package, any non-complying product which has been manufactured and packaged in a federally-inspected plant and shipped in interstate commerce into the District for sale at retail in the package in which shipped.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1104 DISPLAYING OTHER FORMS OF INFORMATION

1104.1 Consumer warnings shall be provided pursuant to this Code.

1104.2 Food establishment or manufacturers' dating information on foods may not be concealed or altered.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1105 CONSUMER ADVISORY ─ CONSUMING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL FOODS

1105.1 Except as specified in §§ 900.4, 900.3, and 1300.3, if an animal food such as beef, eggs, fish, lamb, milk, pork, poultry, or shellfish that is served or sold raw, undercooked, or without otherwise being processed to eliminate pathogens either in ready-to-eat form or as an ingredient in another ready-to-eat food, the licensee shall inform consumers by brochures, deli-case or menu advisories, label statements, table tents, placards, or other effective written means of the significantly increased risk of consuming such foods. This information shall read:

Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A12 CONTAMINATED OR ADULTERATED FOOD

25-A DCMR § 1200 DISPOSITION ─ DISCARDING OR RECONDITIONING

1200.1 A food that is unsafe, adulterated, or not honestly presented as specified in § 600 shall be reconditioned according to procedures that the Department approved or discarded.

1200.2 Food that is not from an approved source as specified in §§ 700 through 706 shall be discarded.

1200.3 Ready-to-eat food that may have been contaminated by an employee who has been restricted or excluded as specified in § 303 shall be discarded.

1200.4 Food that is contaminated by food employees, consumers, or other persons through contact with their hands, bodily discharges, such as nasal or oral discharges, or other means shall be discarded.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A13 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FOODS FOR HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE POPULATIONS

25-A DCMR § 1300 ADDITIONAL SAFEGUARDS ─ PASTEURIZED FOODS, PROHIBITED RESERVICE, AND PROHIBITED FOODS

1300.1 In a food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population the following criteria apply to juice:

(a) For the purpose of this section only, children who are age nine (9) or less and receive food in a school, day care setting, or similar facility that provides custodial care are included as highly susceptible populations;

(b) Prepackaged juice or a prepackaged beverage containing juice, that bears a warning label as specified in 21 C.F.R. § 101.17(g) − Food labeling, warning, notice, and safe handling statements, juices that have not been specifically processed to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the presence of pathogens, or a packaged juice or beverage containing juice, that bears a warning label as specified in § 907.1(b) shall not be served or offered for sale; and

(c) Unpackaged juice that is prepared on the premises for service or sale in a ready-to-eat form shall be processed under a HACCP Plan that contains the information specified in § 4205.1(b) through (e) and as specified in 21 C.F.R. part 120 – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems, subpart B Pathogen Reduction, § 120.24 - Process controls.

1300.2 In a food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population pasteurized eggs or egg products shall be substituted for raw eggs in the preparation of:

(a) Foods such as Caesar salad, hollandaise or Béarnaise sauce, mayonnaise, meringue, eggnog, ice cream, and egg-fortified beverages; and

(b) Recipes in which more than one (1) egg is broken and the eggs are combined, except as specified in § 1300.8;

1300.3 In a food establishment that serves a highly susceptible population the following foods shall not be served or offered for sale in a ready-to-eat form:

(a) Raw animal food such as raw fish, raw-marinated fish, raw molluscan shellfish, and steak tartare;

(b) A partially cooked animal food such as lightly cooked fish, rare meat, soft- cooked eggs that are made from raw shell eggs, and meringue; and

(c) Raw seed sprouts.

1300.4 Food employees shall not contact ready-to-eat food as specified in §§ 800.2 and 800.4.

1300.5 Time only, as the public health control as specified in § 1009.4, shall not be used for raw eggs.

1300.6 Subsection 1300.2(b) does not apply if the raw eggs are combined immediately before cooking for one (1) consumer's serving at a single meal, cooked as specified in § 900.1(a), and served immediately, such as an omelet, soufflé, or scrambled eggs.

1300.7 Subsection 1300.2(b) does not apply if the raw eggs are combined as an ingredient immediately before baking and the eggs are thoroughly cooked to a ready-to-eat form, such as a cake, muffin, or bread.

1300.8 Subsection 1300.2(b) does not apply if the preparation of the food is conducted under a HACCP Plan that:

(a) Identifies the food to be prepared;

(b) Prohibits contacting ready-to-eat food with bare hands;

(c) Includes specifications and practices that ensure:

(1) Salmonella Enteritidis growth is controlled before and after cooking; and

(2) Salmonella Enteritidis is destroyed by cooking the eggs according to the temperature and time specified in § 900.1(b);

(d) Contains the information specified in § 4205.1(d) including procedures that:

(1) Control cross contamination of ready-to-eat food with raw eggs; and

(2) Delineate cleaning and sanitization procedures for food contact surfaces; and

(e) Describes the training program that ensures the food employee responsible for the preparation of the food understands the procedures to be used.

1300.9 Food may be re-served as specified in § 823.2, except as specified in § 1300.10.

1300.10 Food shall not be re-served under the following conditions;

(a) Any food served to patients or clients who are under contact precautions in medical isolation or quarantine, or protective environment isolation shall not be re-served to others outside; and

(b) Packages of food from any patients, clients, or other consumers shall not be re-served to persons in protective environment isolation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A14 MATERIALS USED FOR CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIR OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS AND LINENS

25-A DCMR § 1400 MULTIUSE ─ CHARACTERISTICS

1400.1 Materials that are used in the construction of utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment shall not allow the migration of deleterious substances, or impart colors, odors, or tastes to food, and under normal use conditions shall be: P

(a) Safe; P

(b) Durable, corrosion-resistant, and nonabsorbent;

(c) Sufficient in weight and thickness to withstand repeated warewashing;

(d) Finished to have a smooth, easily cleanable surface; and

(e) Resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion, and decomposition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1401 MULTIUSE ─ CAST IRON, USE LIMITATION

1401.1 Cast iron shall not be used for utensils or food-contact surfaces of equipment, except as specified in §§ 1401.2 and 1401.3.

1401.2 Cast iron may be used as a surface for cooking.

1401.3 Cast iron may be used in utensils for serving food if the utensils are used only as part of an uninterrupted process from cooking through service.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1402 MULTIUSE ─ LEAD IN CERAMIC, CHINA, AND CRYSTAL UTENSILS, USE LIMITATION

1402.1 Ceramic, china and crystal utensils, and decorative utensils, such as hand painted ceramic or china that are used in contact with food shall be lead-free or contain levels of lead not exceeding the limits of the following utensil categories: P

Utensil Description Maximum Lead mg/L

Category

Beverage Mugs, Coffee mugs 0.5

Cups, Pitchers


Large

Hollowware Bowls > 1.1 liter 1

(excluding pitchers) (1.16 quart)


Small

Hollowware Bowls < 1.1 liter 2.0

(excluding cups & (1.16 quart)

mugs)


Flat Tableware Plates, Saucers 3.0

1402.2 Pewter alloys containing lead in excess of five hundredth of a percent (0.05%) shall not be used as a food-contact surface. P

1402.3 Solder and flux containing lead in excess of two tenths of a percent (0.2%) shall not be used as a food contact surface.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1403 MULTIUSE ─ COPPER, USE LIMITATION

1403.1 Copper and copper alloys such as brass shall not be used in contact with acidic food that has a pH below six (6) such as vinegar, fruit juice, or wine or for a fitting or tubing installed between a backflow prevention device and a carbonator, except as specified in § 1403.2. P

1403.2 Copper and copper alloys may be used in contact with beer brewing ingredients that have a pH below six (6) in the pre-fermentation and fermentation steps of a beer brewing operation such as a brewpub or microbrewery.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1404 MULTIUSE ─ GALVANIZED METAL, USE LIMITATION

1404.1 Galvanized metal shall not be used for utensils or food-contact surfaces of equipment that are used in contact with acidic food that has a pH below six (6) such as vinegar, fruit juice, or wine. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1405 MULTIUSE ─ SPONGES, USE LIMITATION

1405.1 Sponges shall not be used in contact with cleaned and sanitized or in-use food- contact surfaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1406 MULTIUSE ─ WOOD, USE LIMITATION

1406.1 Wood and wood wicker shall not be used as a food-contact surface, except as specified in §§ 1406.2 through 1406.4.

1406.2 Hard maple or an equivalently hard, close-grained wood may be used for:

(a) Cutting boards; cutting blocks; bakers' tables; and utensils such as rolling pins, doughnut dowels, salad bowls, and chopsticks; and

(b) Wooden paddles used in confectionery operations for pressure scraping kettles when manually preparing confections at a temperature of one hundred and ten degrees Celsius (110o C) (two hundred and thirty degrees Fahrenheit (230o F)) or above.

1406.3 Whole, uncut, raw fruits and vegetables, and nuts in the shell may be kept in the wood shipping containers in which they were received, until the fruits, vegetables, or nuts are used.

1406.4 If the nature of the food requires removal of rinds, peels, husks, or shells before consumption, the whole, uncut, raw food may be kept in:

(a) Untreated wood containers; or

(b) Treated wood containers if the containers are treated with a preservative that meets the requirements specified in 21 C.F.R. § 178.3800 − Preservatives for Wood.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1407 MULTIUSE ─ NONSTICK COATINGS, USE LIMITATION

1407.1 Multiuse kitchenware such as frying pans, griddles, sauce pans, cookie sheets, and waffle bakers that have a perfluorocarbon resin coating shall be used with nonscoring or nonscratching utensils and cleaning aids.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1408 MULTIUSE ─ NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES EXPOSED TO FOOD SOILING

1408.1 Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment that are exposed to splash, spillage, or other food soiling or that require frequent cleaning shall be constructed of a corrosion resistant, nonabsorbent, and smooth material.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1409 SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ─ CHARACTERISTICS

1409.1 Materials that are used to make single-service and single-use articles shall not:

(a) Allow the migration of deleterious substances; P or

(b) Impart colors, odors, or tastes to food.

1409.2 Materials that are used to make single-service and single-use articles shall be:

(a) Safe; P and

(b) Clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1410 REPEALED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1411 REPEALED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A15 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS AND LINENS

25-A DCMR § 1500 DURABILITY AND STRENGTH ─ EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

1500.1 Equipment and utensils shall be designed and constructed to be durable and to retain their characteristic qualities under normal use conditions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1501 DURABILITY AND STRENGTH ─ FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

1501.1 Food temperature measuring devices shall not have sensors or stems constructed of glass, except that thermometers with glass sensors or stems that are encased in a shatterproof coating such as candy thermometers may be used. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1502 CLEANABILITY ─ FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES

1502.1 Multiuse food-contact surfaces shall be:

(a) Smooth; Pf

(b) Free of breaks, open seams, cracks, chips, inclusions, pits, and similar imperfections; Pf

(c) Free of sharp internal angles, corners, and crevices; Pf and

(d) Finished to have smooth welds and joints. Pf

1502.2 Multiuse food-contact surfaces shall be accessible for cleaning and inspection by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) Without being disassembled; Pf

(b) By disassembling without the use of tools; Pf or

(c) By easy disassembling with the use of handheld tools commonly available to maintenance and cleaning personnel such as screwdrivers, pliers, open- end wrenches, and Allen wrenches. Pf

1502.3 Subsection 1502.2 does not apply to cooking oil storage tanks, distribution lines for cooling oils, or beverage syrup lines or tubes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1503 CLEANABILITY ─ CIP EQUIPMENT

1503.1 “Cleaned in Place” (CIP) equipment shall meet the characteristics specified in § 1502 and shall be designed and constructed so that:

(a) Cleaning and sanitizing solutions circulate throughout a fixed system and contact all interior food-contact surfaces; Pf and

(b) The system is self-draining or capable of being completely drained of cleaning and sanitizing solutions.

1503.2 CIP equipment that is not designed to be disassembled for cleaning shall be designed with inspection access points to ensure that all interior food-contact surfaces throughout the fixed system are being effectively cleaned.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1504 "V" THREADS, USE LIMITATION

1504.1 "V" type threads shall not be used on food-contact surfaces. This section does not apply to hot oil cooking or filtering equipment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1505 CLEANABILITY ─ HOT OIL FILTERING EQUIPMENT

1505.1 Hot oil filtering equipment shall meet the characteristics specified in § 1502 or § 1503 and shall be readily accessible for filter replacement and cleaning of the filter.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1506 CLEANABILITY ─ CAN OPENERS

1506.1 Cutting or piercing parts of can openers shall be readily removable for cleaning and for replacement.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1507 CLEANABILITY ─ NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES

1507.1 Nonfood-contact surfaces shall be free of unnecessary ledges, projections, and crevices, and designed and constructed to allow easy cleaning and to facilitate maintenance.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1508 CLEANABILITY ─ KICK PLATES, REMOVABLE

1508.1 Kick plates shall be designed so that the areas behind them are accessible for inspection and cleaning by being removable by one of the methods specified in § 1502.2 or capable of being rotated open, and removable or capable of being rotated open without unlocking equipment doors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1509 CLEANABILITY, OPERATION & MAINTENANCE ─ VENTILATION HOOD SYSTEMS, FILTERS AND GREASE EXTRACTORS

1509.1 Filters or other grease extracting equipment shall be designed to be readily removable for cleaning and replacement if not designed to be cleaned in place.

1509.2 Commercial cooking systems shall be operated and maintained in good repair according to the D.C. Fire Code (2008) incorporating the International Fire Code (2006) or most recent edition as amended by the D.C. Fire Code Supplement, as amended (Subtitle H of 12 DCMR). P

1509.3 The ventilation system in connection with hoods shall be operated at the required rate of air movement, and classified grease filters shall be in place when equipment under a kitchen grease hood is used in accordance with the D.C. Fire Code (2008) incorporating the International Fire Code (2006) or most recent edition as amended by the D.C. Fire Code Supplement, as amended (Subtitle H of 12 DCMR).P

1509.4 Hoods, grease-removal devices, fans, ducts and other appurtenances shall be cleaned at intervals necessary to prevent the accumulation of grease.

1509.5 The licensee shall maintain on the premises a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information: P

(a) Name and address of its District-licensed ventilation hood system cleaning contractor; P

(b) Frequency and extent of ventilation hood system cleaning services provided under the contract; P and

(c) Date and time of ventilation hood system cleaning services were last provided to the establishment. P

1509.6 Grease extractors, where installed, shall be operated when commercial-type cooking equipment is used according to the D.C. Fire Code (2008) incorporating the International Fire Code (2006) or most recent edition as amended by the D.C. Fire Code Supplement, as amended (Subtitle H of 12 DCMR). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1510 ACCURACY ─ TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, FOOD

1510.1 Food temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Celsius or dually scaled in Celsius and Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus one degree Celsius (±1o C) in the intended range of use. Pf

1510.2 Food temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus two degrees Fahrenheit (±2o F) in the intended range of use. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1511 ACCURACY ─ TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, AMBIENT AIR AND WATER

1511.1 Ambient air and water temperature measuring devices that are scaled in Celsius or dually scaled in Celsius and Fahrenheit shall be designed to be easily readable and accurate to plus or minus one and a half degrees Celsius (±1.5o C) in the intended range of use. Pf

1511.2 Ambient air and water temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus three degrees Fahrenheit (±3o F) in the intended range of use. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1512 ACCURACY ─ PRESSURE MEASURING DEVICES, MECHANICAL WAREWASHING EQUIPMENT

1512.1 Pressure measuring devices that display the pressures in the water supply line for the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse shall have increments of seven (7) kilopascals (one (1) pound per square inch) or smaller and shall be accurate to plus or minus fourteen kilopascals (± 14) plus or minus two pounds (± 2) per square inch) in the in the range indicated on the manufacturer’s data plate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1513 FUNCTIONALITY ─ VENTILATION HOOD SYSTEMS, DRIP PREVENTION

1513.1 Exhaust ventilation hood systems in food preparation and warewashing areas including components such as hoods, fans, guards, and ducting shall be designed to prevent grease or condensation from draining or dripping onto food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1514 FUNCTIONALITY ─ EQUIPMENT OPENINGS, CLOSURES AND DEFLECTORS

1514.1 A cover or lid for equipment shall overlap the opening and be sloped to drain.

1514.2 An opening located within the top of a unit of equipment that is designed for use with a cover or lid shall be flanged upward at least five millimeters (5 mm) (two-tenths of an inch (2/10 in.)).

1514.3 Fixed piping, temperature measuring devices, rotary shafts, and other parts extending into equipment shall be provided with a watertight joint at the point where the item enters the equipment, except as specified in § 1514.4.

1514.4 If a watertight joint is not provided under § 1514.3:

(a) The piping, temperature measuring devices, rotary shafts, and other parts extending through the openings shall be equipped with an apron designed to deflect condensation, drips, and dust from openings into the food; and

(b) The opening shall be flanged as specified in § 1514.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1515 FUNCTIONALITY ─ DISPENSING EQUIPMENT, PROTECTION OF EQUIPMENT AND FOOD

1515.1 In equipment that dispenses or vends liquid food or ice in unpackaged form:

(a) The delivery tube, chute, orifice, and splash surfaces directly above the container receiving the food shall be designed in a manner, such as with barriers, baffles, or drip aprons, so that drips from condensation and splash are diverted from the opening of the container receiving the food;

(b) The delivery tube, chute, or orifice shall be protected from manual contact, such as by being recessed;

(c) The delivery tube or chute and orifice of the equipment used to vend liquid food or ice in unpackaged form to self-service consumers shall be designed so that the delivery tube or chute and orifice are protected from dust, insects, rodents, and other contamination by a self-closing door if the equipment is:

(1) Located in an outside area that does not otherwise afford the protection of an enclosure against the rain, windblown debris, insects, rodents, and other contaminants that are present in the environment; or

(2) Available for self-service during hours when it is not under the full-time supervision of a food employee; and

(d) The dispensing equipment actuating lever or mechanism and filling device of consumer self-service beverage dispensing equipment shall be designed to prevent contact with the lip-contact surface of glasses or cups that are refilled.

1515.2 Dispensing equipment in which potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) in a homogenous liquid form is maintained outside of the temperature control requirements as specified in § 1005.1 shall:

(a) Be specifically designed and equipped to maintain the commercial sterility of aseptically packaged food in a homogenous liquid form for a specified duration from the time of opening the packaging within the equipment; P and

(b) Conform to the requirements for this equipment as specified in NSF/ ANSI 18-2006 – Manual Food and Beverage Dispensing Equipment. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1516 FUNCTIONALITY ─ VENDING MACHINE, VENDING STAGE CLOSURE

1516.1 The dispensing compartment of a vending machine, including a machine that is designed to vend prepackaged snack food that is not potentially hazardous such as chips, party mixes, and pretzels, shall be equipped with a self-closing door or cover if the machine is:

(a) Located in an outside area that does not otherwise afford the protection of an enclosure against the rain, windblown debris, insects, rodents, and other contaminants that are present in the environment; or

(b) Available for self-service during hours when it is not under the full-time supervision of a food employee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1517 FUNCTIONALITY ─ BEARINGS AND GEAR BOXES, LEAKPROOF

1517.1 Equipment containing bearings and gears that require lubricants shall be designed and constructed so that the lubricant cannot leak, drip, or be forced into food or onto food-contact surfaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1518 FUNCTIONALITY ─ BEVERAGE TUBING, SEPARATION

1518.1 Except for cold plates that are constructed integrally with an ice storage bin, beverage tubing and cold-plate beverage cooling devices shall not be installed in contact with stored ice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1519 FUNCTIONALITY ─ ICE UNITS, SEPARATION OF DRAINS

1519.1 Liquid waste drain lines shall not pass through an ice machine or ice storage bin.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1520 FUNCTIONALITY ─ CONDENSER UNIT, SEPARATION

1520.1 If a condenser unit is an integral component of equipment, the condenser unit shall be separated from the food and food storage space by a dustproof barrier.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1521 FUNCTIONALITY ─ CAN OPENERS ON VENDING MACHINES

1521.1 Cutting or piercing parts of can openers on vending machines shall be protected from manual contact, dust, insects, rodents, and other contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1522 FUNCTIONALITY ─ MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH TANKS

1522.1 Molluscan shellfish life support system display tanks shall not be used to store or display shellfish that are offered for human consumption and shall be conspicuously marked so that it is obvious to the consumer that the shellfish are for display only, except as specified in § 1522.2. P

1522.2 Molluscan shellfish life-support system display tanks that are used to store and display shellfish that are offered for human consumption shall be operated and maintained in accordance with a variance granted by the Department as specified in § 4102 and a HACCP Plan that: Pf

(a) Is submitted by the licensee and approved as specified in § 4103; and

(b) Ensures that:

(1) Water used with fish other than molluscan shellfish does not flow into the molluscan tank; Pf

(2) The safety and quality of the shellfish as they were received are not compromised by the use of the tank; Pf and

(3) The identity of the source of the shellstock is retained as specified in § 717. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1523 FUNCTIONALITY ─ VENDING MACHINES, AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF

1523.1 A machine vending potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall have an automatic control that prevents the machine from vending food if there is a power failure, mechanical failure, or other condition that results in an internal machine temperature that cannot maintain food temperatures as specified in Chapters 6 through 13 P , and until the machine is serviced and restocked with food that has been maintained at temperatures specified in Chapters 6 through 13. P

1523.2 When the automatic shutoff within a machine vending potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) is activated:

(a) In a refrigerated vending machine, the ambient air temperature may not exceed five degrees Celsius (5o C) (forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41o F)) for more than thirty (30) minutes immediately after the machine is filled, serviced, or restocked; P or

(b) In a hot holding vending machine, the ambient air temperature may not be less than fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135o F)) for more than one hundred twenty (120) minutes immediately after the machine is filled, serviced, or restocked. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1524 FUNCTIONALITY ─ TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

1524.1 In a mechanically refrigerated or hot food storage unit, the sensor of a temperature measuring device shall be located to measure the air temperature or a simulated product temperature in the warmest part of a mechanically refrigerated unit and in the coolest part of a hot food storage unit.

1524.2 Cold or hot holding equipment used for potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be designed to include and shall be equipped with at least one (1) integral or permanently affixed temperature measuring device that is located to allow easy viewing of the device's temperature display, except as specified in § 1524.3.

1524.3 Subsection 1524.2 does not apply to equipment for which the placement of a temperature measuring device is not a practical means for measuring the ambient air surrounding the food because of the design, type, and use of the equipment, such as calrod units, heat lamps, cold plates, bainmaries, steam tables, insulated food transport containers, and salad bars.

1524.4 Temperature measuring devices shall be designed to be easily readable.

1524.5 Food temperature measuring devices and water temperature measuring devices on warewashing machines shall have a numerical scale, printed record, or digital readout in increments no greater than one degree Celsius (1o C) (two degrees Fahrenheit (2o F)) in the intended range of use. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1525 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING MACHINE, DATA PLATE OPERATING SPECIFICATIONS

1525.1 A warewashing machine shall be provided with an easily accessible and readable data plate affixed to the machine by the manufacturer that indicates the machine's design and operating specifications including the:

(a) Temperatures required for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing;

(b) Pressure required for the fresh water sanitizing rinse unless the machine is designed to use only a pumped sanitizing rinse; and

(c) Conveyor speed for conveyor machines or cycle time for stationary rack machines.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1526 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING MACHINES, INTERNAL BAFFLES

1526.1 Warewashing machine wash and rinse tanks shall be equipped with baffles, curtains, or other means to minimize internal cross contamination of the solutions in wash and rinse tanks.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1527 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING MACHINES, TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

1527.1 A warewashing machine shall be equipped with a temperature-measuring device that indicates the temperature of the water:

(a) In each wash and rinse tank; Pf and

(b) As the water enters the hot water sanitizing final rinse manifold or in the chemical sanitizing solution tank. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1528 FUNCTIONALITY ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING EQUIPMENT, HEATERS AND BASKETS

1528.1 If hot water is used for sanitization in manual warewashing operations, the sanitizing compartment of the sink shall be:

(a) Designed with an integral heating device that is capable of maintaining water at a temperature not less than seventy-seven degrees Celsius (77o C) (one hundred seventy-one degrees Fahrenheit (171o F)); Pf and

(b) Provided with a rack or basket to allow complete immersion of equipment and utensils into the hot water. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1529 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING MACHINES, AUTOMATIC DISPENSING OF DETERGENTS AND SANITIZERS

1529.1 A warewashing machine that uses a chemical for sanitization and that is installed after adoption of this Code shall be equipped to:

(a) Automatically dispense detergents and sanitizers; Pf and

(b) Incorporate a visual means to verify that detergents and sanitizers are delivered or a visual or audible alarm to signal if the detergents and sanitizers are not delivered to the respective washing and sanitizing cycles.Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1530 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING MACHINES, FLOW PRESSURE DEVICE

1530.1 Warewashing machines that provide a fresh hot water sanitizing rinse shall be equipped with a pressure gauge or similar device such as a transducer that measures and displays the water pressure in the supply line immediately before entering the warewashing machine.

1530.2 If the flow pressure-measuring device is upstream of the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse control valve, the device shall be mounted in a six and four millimeter (6.4 mm) or one fourth inch (1/4 in.) Iron Pipe Size (IPS) valve.

1530.3 Subsections 1530.1 and 1530.2 do not apply to a machine that uses only a pumped or recirculated sanitizing rinse.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1531 FUNCTIONALITY ─ WAREWASHING SINKS AND DRAINBOARDS, SELF-DRAINING

1531.1 Sinks and drainboards of warewashing sinks and machines shall be self-draining.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1532 FUNCTIONALITY ─ EQUIPMENT COMPARTMENTS, DRAINAGE

1532.1 Equipment compartments that are subject to accumulation of moisture due to conditions such as condensation, food or beverage drip, or water from melting ice shall be sloped to an outlet that allows complete draining.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1533 FUNCTIONALITY ─ VENDING MACHINES, LIQUID WASTE PRODUCTS

1533.1 Vending machines designed to store beverages that are packaged in containers made from paper products shall be equipped with diversion devices and retention pans or drains for container leakage.

1533.2 Vending machines that dispense liquid food in bulk shall be:

(a) Provided with an internally mounted waste receptacle for the collection of drip, spillage, overflow, or other internal wastes; and

(b) Equipped with an automatic shutoff device that will place the machine out of operation before the waste receptacle overflows.

1533.3 Shutoff devices specified in § 1533.2(b) shall prevent water or liquid food from continuously running if there is a failure of a flow control device in the water or liquid food system or waste accumulation that could lead to overflow of the waste receptacle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1534 FUNCTIONALITY ─ CASE LOT HANDLING APPARATUSES, MOVEABILITY

1534.1 Apparatuses, such as dollies, pallets, racks, and skids used to store and transport large quantities of packaged foods received from a supplier in a cased or overwrapped lot, shall be designed to be moved by hand or by conveniently available apparatuses such as hand trucks and forklifts.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1535 FUNCTIONALITY ─ VENDING MACHINE DOORS AND OPENINGS

1535.1 Vending machine doors and access opening covers to food and container storage spaces shall be tight-fitting so that the space along the entire interface between the doors or covers and the cabinet of the machine, if the doors or covers are in a closed position, is no greater than one and one-half millimeters (1.5 mm) or one sixteenth of an inch (1/16 in.) by:

(a) Being covered with louvers, screens, or materials that provide an equivalent opening of not greater than one and one-half millimeters (1.5 mm) or one-sixteenth of an inch (1/16 in.). Screening of twelve (12) or more mesh to two and a half centimeters (2.5 cm) twelve (12) mesh to one inch (1 in.) meets this requirement;

(b) Being effectively gasketed;

(c) Having interface surfaces that are at least thirteen millimeters (13 mm) or one-half inch (1/2 in.) wide; or

(d) Jambs or surfaces used to form an L-shaped entry path to the interface.

1535.2 Vending machine service connection openings through an exterior wall of a machine shall be closed by sealants, clamps, or grommets so that the openings are no larger than one and a half millimeters (1.5 mm) or one-sixteenth of an inch (1/16 in).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1536 ACCEPTABILITY ─ FOOD EQUIPMENT, CERTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION

1536.1 Food equipment that is certified or classified for sanitation by an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited certification program is deemed to be in compliance with Chapters 14 and 15 of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A16 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS AND LINENS

25-A DCMR § 1600 EQUIPMENT ─ COOLING, HEATING, AND HOLDING CAPACITIES

1600.1 Equipment for cooling and heating food, and holding cold and hot food, shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide food temperatures as specified in Chapters 6 through 13. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1601 EQUIPMENT ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING, SINK COMPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS

1601.1 A sink with at least three (3) compartments shall be provided for manually washing, rinsing, and sanitizing equipment and utensils, except as specified in § 1601.3.Pf

1601.2 Sink compartments shall be large enough to accommodate immersion of the largest equipment and utensils. If equipment or utensils are too large for the warewashing sink, a warewashing machine or alternative equipment as specified in § 1601.3 shall be used. Pf

1601.3 Alternative manual warewashing equipment may be used when there are special cleaning needs or constraints and its use is approved. Alternative manual warewashing equipment may include:

(a) High-pressure detergent sprayers;

(b) Low- or line-pressure spray detergent foamers;

(c) Other task-specific cleaning equipment;

(d) Brushes or other implements;

(e) Two (2)-compartment sinks as specified in §§ 1601.4 and 1601.5; or

(f) Receptacles that substitute for the compartments of a multi-compartment sink.

1601.4 Before a two (2)-compartment sink is used:

(a) The licensee shall have its use approved; and

(b) The licensee shall limit the number of kitchenware items cleaned and sanitized in the two (2)-compartment sink, and shall limit warewashing to batch operations for cleaning kitchenware such as between cutting one type of raw meat and another or cleanup at the end of a shift, and shall:

(1) Make up the cleaning and sanitizing solutions immediately before use and drain them immediately after use, and

(2) Use a detergent-sanitizer to sanitize and apply the detergent- sanitizer in accordance with the manufacturer’s label instructions and as specified in § 1814; or

(3) Use a hot water sanitization immersion step as specified in § 1909.1(c).

1601.5 A two (2)-compartment sink shall not be used for warewashing operations where cleaning and sanitizing solutions are used for a continuous or intermittent flow of kitchenware or tableware in an ongoing warewashing process.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1602 EQUIPMENT ─ DRAINBOARDS

1602.1 Drainboards, utensil racks, or tables large enough to accommodate all soiled and cleaned items that may accumulate during hours of operation shall be provided for necessary utensil holding before cleaning and after sanitizing.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1603 EQUIPMENT ─ VENTILATION HOOD SYSTEMS, ADEQUACY

1603.1 Ventilation hood systems and devices shall be sufficient in number and capacity to prevent grease or condensation from collecting on walls and ceilings according to the D.C. Fire Code (2008) incorporating the International Fire Code (2006) or most recent edition as amended by the D.C. Fire Code Supplement, as amended (Subtitle H of 12 DCMR). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1604 EQUIPMENT ─ CLOTHES WASHERS AND DRYERS

1604.1 If work clothes or linens are laundered on the premises, a mechanical clothes washer and dryer shall be provided and used, except as specified in § 1604.2.

1604.2 If on-premises laundering is limited to wiping cloths intended to be used moist, or wiping cloths are air-dried as specified in § 2201, a mechanical clothes washer and dryer need not be provided.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1605 UTENSILS ─ CONSUMER SELF-SERVICE

1605.1 A food dispensing utensil shall be available for each container displayed at a consumer self-service unit such as a buffet or salad bar.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1606 FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES

1606.1 Food temperature measuring devices shall be provided and readily accessible for use in ensuring attainment and maintenance of food temperatures as specified in Chapters 6 through 13. Pf

1606.2 A temperature measuring device with a suitable small-diameter probe that is designed to measure the temperature of thin masses shall be provided and readily accessible to accurately measure the temperature in thin foods such as meat patties and fish filets. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1607 TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING

1607.1 In manual warewashing operations, a temperature measuring device shall be provided and readily accessible for frequently measuring the washing and sanitizing temperatures.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1608 TESTING DEVICES ─ SANITIZING SOLUTIONS

1608.1 A test kit or other device that accurately measures the concentration in micrograms per liter (mg/L) of sanitizing solutions shall be provided. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A17 LOCATION AND INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT

25-A DCMR § 1700 LOCATION ─ EQUIPMENT, CLOTHES WASHERS AND DRYERS, AND STORAGE CABINETS, CONTAMINATION PREVENTION

1700.1 Except as specified in § 1700.2, equipment, a cabinet used for the storage of food, or a cabinet that is used to store cleaned and sanitized equipment, utensils, laundered linens, and single-service and single-use articles shall not be located:

(a) In locker rooms;

(b) In toilet rooms;

(c) In garbage rooms;

(d) In mechanical rooms;

(e) Under sewer lines that are not shielded to intercept potential drips;

(f) Under leaking water lines including leaking automatic fire sprinkler heads or under lines on which water has condensed;

(g) Under open stairwells; or

(h) Under other sources of contamination.

1700.2 A storage cabinet used for linens or single-service or single-use articles may be stored in a locker room.

1700.3 If a mechanical clothes washer or dryer is provided, it shall be located so that the washer or dryer is protected from contamination and only where there is no exposed food, clean equipment, clean utensils, clean linens, or unwrapped single service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1701 INSTALLATION ─ FIXED EQUIPMENT, SPACING OR SEALING

1701.1 Equipment that is fixed because it is not easily movable shall be installed so that it is:

(a) Spaced to allow access for cleaning along the sides, behind, and above the equipment;

(b) Spaced from adjoining equipment, walls, and ceilings a distance of not more than one millimeter (1 mm) or one thirty-second of an inch (1/32 in.); or

(c) Sealed to adjoining equipment or walls, if the equipment is exposed to spillage or seepage.

1701.2 Counter-mounted equipment that is not easily movable shall be installed to allow cleaning of the equipment and areas underneath and around the equipment by being:

(a) Sealed; or

(b) Elevated on legs as specified in § 1702.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1702 INSTALLATION ─ FIXED EQUIPMENT, ELEVATION OR SEALING

1702.1 Floor-mounted equipment that is not easily movable shall be sealed to the floor or elevated on legs that provide at least a fifteen centimeter (15 cm) or a six inch (6 in.) clearance between the floor and the equipment, except as specified in §§ 1702.2 and 1702.3.

1702.2 If no part of the floor under the floor-mounted equipment is more than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) from the point of cleaning access, the clearance space may be only ten centimeters (10 cm) or four inches (4 in.).

1702.3 This section does not apply to display shelving units, display refrigeration units, and display freezer units located in the consumer shopping areas of a retail food store, if the floor under the units is maintained clean.

1702.4 Counter-mounted equipment that is not easily movable shall be elevated on legs that provide at least a ten centimeter (10 cm) or four inch (4 in.) clearance between the table and the equipment, except as specified in § 1702.5.

1702.5 The clearance space between the table and counter-mounted equipment may be:

(a) Seven and a half centimeters (7.5 cm) or three inches (3 in.) if the horizontal distance of the table top under the equipment is no more than fifty centimeters (50 cm) or twenty inches (20 in.) from the point of access for cleaning; or

(b) Five centimeters (5 cm) or two inches (2 in.) if the horizontal distance of the table top under the equipment is no more than seven and one-half centimeters (7.5 cm) or three inches (3 in.) from the point of access for cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A18 MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION OF EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

25-A DCMR § 1800 EQUIPMENT ─ GOOD REPAIR AND PROPER ADJUSTMENT

1800.1 Equipment shall be maintained in a state of repair and condition that meets the requirements specified in Chapters 14 and 15.

1800.2 Equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.

1800.3 Cutting or piercing parts of can openers shall be kept sharp to minimize the creation of metal fragments that can contaminate food when the container is opened.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1801 EQUIPMENT ─ CUTTING SURFACES

1801.1 Surfaces such as cutting blocks and boards that are subject to scratching and scoring shall be resurfaced if they can no longer be effectively cleaned and sanitized, or discarded if they are not capable of being resurfaced.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1802 EQUIPMENT ─ MICROWAVE OVENS

1802.1 Microwave ovens shall meet the safety standards specified in 21 CFR § 1030.10 − Microwave ovens.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1803 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING, CLEANING FREQUENCY

1803.1 A warewashing machine, the compartments of sinks, basins, or other receptacles used for washing and rinsing equipment, utensils, or raw foods, or laundering wiping cloths, and drainboards or other equipment used to substitute for drainboards as specified in § 1602 shall be cleaned:

(a) Before use;

(b) Throughout the day at a frequency necessary to prevent recontamination of equipment and utensils and to ensure that the equipment performs its intended function; and

(c) If used, at least every twenty-four (24) hours.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1804 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING MACHINES, MANUFACTURERS' OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

1804.1 A warewashing machine and its auxiliary components shall be operated in accordance with the machine's data plate and other manufacturer's instructions.

1804.2 A warewashing machine's conveyor speed or automatic cycle times shall be maintained accurately timed in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1805 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING SINKS, USE LIMITATION

1805.1 A warewashing sink shall not be used for handwashing or dumping mop water.

1805.2 If a warewashing sink is used to wash wiping cloths, wash produce, or thaw food, the sink shall be cleaned as specified in § 1803 before and after each time it is used to wash wiping cloths or wash produce or thaw food. Sinks used to wash or thaw food shall be sanitized as specified in Chapter 20 before and after using the sink to wash produce or thaw food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1806 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING, CLEANING AGENTS

1806.1 When used for warewashing, the wash compartment of a sink, mechanical warewasher, or wash receptacle of alternative manual warewashing equipment as specified in § 1601.3 shall contain a wash solution of soap, detergent, acid cleaner, alkaline cleaner, degreaser, abrasive cleaner, or other cleaning agent according to the cleaning agent manufacturer's label instructions. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1807 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING, CLEAN SOLUTIONS

1807.1 The wash, rinse, and sanitize solutions shall be maintained clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1808 EQUIPMENT ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING, WASH SOLUTION TEMPERATURE

1808.1 The temperature of the wash solution in manual warewashing equipment shall be maintained at not less than forty-three degrees Celsius (43o C) (one hundred ten degrees Fahrenheit (110o F)) or the temperature specified on the cleaning agent manufacturer's label instructions. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1809 EQUIPMENT ─ MECHANICAL WAREWASHING, WASH SOLUTION TEMPERATURE

1809.1 The temperature of the wash solution in spray type warewashers that use hot water to sanitize shall not be less than:

(a) For a stationary rack, single temperature machine, seventy-four degrees Celsius (74o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)); Pf

(b) For a stationary rack, dual temperature machine, sixty-six degrees Celsius (66o C) (one hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (150o F)); Pf

(c) For a single tank, conveyor, dual temperature machine, seventy-one degrees Celsius (71o C) (one hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit (160o F)); Pf or

(d) For a multi-tank, conveyor, multi-temperature machine, sixty-six degrees Celsius (66o C) (one hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (150o F)). Pf

1809.2 The temperature of the wash solution in spray-type warewashers that use chemicals to sanitize shall not be less than forty-nine degrees Celsius (49oC) (one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit (120 o F)). Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1810 EQUIPMENT ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING, HOT WATER SANITIZATION TEMPERATURES

1810.1 If immersion in hot water is used for sanitizing in a manual operation, the temperature of the water shall be maintained at seventy-seven degrees Celsius (77o C) (one hundred seventy-one degrees Fahrenheit (171o F)) or above. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1811 EQUIPMENT ─ MECHANICAL WAREWASHING, HOT WATER SANITIZATION TEMPERATURES

1811.1 Except as specified in § 1811.2, in a mechanical operation, the temperature of the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse as it enters the manifold shall not be more than ninety degrees Celsius (90o C) (one hundred ninety-four degrees Fahrenheit (194o F)), or less than: Pf

(a) For a stationary rack, single temperature machine, four degrees Celsius (4o C) (one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (165o F)); Pf or

(b) For all other machines, eighty-two degrees Celsius (82o C) (one hundred eighty degrees Fahrenheit (180o F)). Pf

1811.2 The maximum temperature specified in § 1811.1 does not apply to the high pressure and temperature systems with wand-type, hand-held, spraying devices used for the in-place cleaning and sanitizing of equipment such as meat saws.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1812 EQUIPMENT ─ MECHANICAL WAREWASHING, SANITIZATION PRESSURE

1812.1 The flow pressure of the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse in a warewashing machine, as measured in the water line immediately downstream or upstream from the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse control value, shall be within the range specified on the manufacturer’s data plate and may not be less than thirty-five (35) kilopascals (five pounds (5 lbs.) per square inch)) or more than two hundred (200) kilopascals (thirty pounds (30 lbs.) per square inch)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1813 EQUIPMENT ─ MANUAL AND MECHANICAL WAREWASHING, CHEMICAL SANITIZATION - TEMPERATURE, pH, CONCENTRATION, AND HARDNESS

1813.1 A chemical sanitizer used in a sanitizing solution for a manual or mechanical operation at contact times specified in § 2002.2 shall meet the criteria specified in § 3404 Sanitizer, Criteria, shall be used in accordance with the EPA-registered label use instructions, and shall be used as specified in §§ 1813.2 through 1813.6. P

1813.2 A chlorine solution shall have a minimum temperature based on the concentration and pH of the solution as listed in the following chart: P

Concentration

Range

Minimum Temperature

mg/L

pH 10 or less

oC (oF)

pH 8 or less

oC (oF)

25 - 49

49 (120)

49 (120)

50 - 99

38 (100)

24 (75)

100

13 (55)

13 (55)

1813.3 An iodine solution shall have a:

(a) Minimum temperature of twenty degrees Celsius (20o C) (sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (68o F)); P

(b) pH of five (5.0) or less or a pH no higher than the level for which the manufacturer specifies the solution is effective; P and

(c) Concentration between twelve and a half micrograms per liter (12.5 mg/L) and twenty-five micrograms per liter (25 mg/L). P

1813.4 A quaternary ammonium compound solution shall:

(a) Have a minimum temperature of twenty-four degrees Celsius (24o C) (seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit (75o F)); P

(b) Have a concentration as specified in § 3404 and as indicated by the manufacturer's use directions included in the labeling; P and

(c) Be used only in water with five hundred micrograms per liter (500 mg/L) hardness or less, or in water having hardness no greater than specified by the EPA-registered label use instructions. P

1813.5 If another solution of a chemical specified under §§ 1813.2 through 1813.4 is used, the licensee shall demonstrate to the Department that the solution achieves sanitization and the use of the solution shall be approved. P

1813.6 If a chemical sanitizer other than chlorine, iodine, or a quaternary ammonium compound is used, it shall be applied in accordance with the EPA-registered label use instructions. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1814 EQUIPMENT ─ MANUAL WAREWASHING, CHEMICAL SANITIZATION USING DETERGENT-SANITIZERS

1814.1 If a detergent-sanitizer is used to sanitize in a cleaning and sanitizing procedure where there is no distinct water rinse between the washing and sanitizing steps, the agent applied in the sanitizing step shall be the same detergent-sanitizer that is used in the washing step.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1815 EQUIPMENT ─ WAREWASHING, DETERMINING CHEMICAL SANITIZER CONCENTRATION

1815.1 Concentration of the sanitizing solution shall be accurately determined by using a test kit or other device. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1816 UTENSILS AND TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE MEASURING DEVICES ─ GOOD REPAIR AND CALIBRATION

1816.1 Utensils shall be maintained in a state of repair or condition that complies with the requirements specified in Chapters 14 and 15 or shall be discarded.

1816.2 Food temperature measuring devices shall be calibrated in accordance with manufacturer's specifications as necessary to ensure their accuracy. Pf

1816.3 Ambient air temperature, water pressure, and water temperature measuring devices shall be maintained in good repair and be accurate within the intended range of use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1817 UTENSILS ─ SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ARTICLES, REQUIRED USE

1817.1 A food establishment without facilities specified in Chapters 19 and 20 for cleaning and sanitizing kitchenware and tableware shall provide only single-use kitchenware, single-service articles, and single-use articles for use by food employees and single-service articles for use by consumers. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1818 UTENSILS ─ SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ARTICLES, USE LIMITATION

1818.1 Single-service and single-use articles shall not be reused.

1818.2 The bulk milk container dispensing tube shall be cut on the diagonal leaving no more than one inch (1 in.) protruding from the chilled dispensing head.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1819 UTENSILS ─ SHELLS, USE LIMITATION

1819.1 Mollusk and crustacea shells shall not be used more than once as serving containers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A19 CLEANING OF EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

25-A DCMR § 1900 OBJECTIVE ─ CLEANING

1900.1 Equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be clean to sight and touch. Pf

1900.2 The food-contact surfaces of cooking equipment and pans shall be kept free of encrusted grease deposits and other soil accumulations.

1900.3 Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1901 FREQUENCY ─ EQUIPMENT, FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, AND UTENSILS

1901.1 Equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be cleaned:

(a) Before each use with a different type of raw animal food such as beef, fish, lamb, pork, or poultry, except as specified in § 1901.2; P

(b) Each time there is a change from working with raw foods to working with ready-to-eat foods; P

(c) Between uses with raw fruits and vegetables and with potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food); P

(d) Before using or storing a food temperature measuring device; P and

(e) At any time during the operation when contamination may have occurred.P

1901.2 Subsection 1901.1(a) does not apply if the food contact surface or utensil is in contact with a succession of different raw animal foods each requiring a higher cooking temperature as specified in § 900 than the previous food, such as preparing raw fish followed by cutting raw poultry on the same cutting board.

1901.3 If used with potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food), equipment, food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be cleaned throughout the day at least every four (4) hours, except as specified in § 1901.4. P

1901.4 Surfaces of utensils and equipment contacting potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) may be cleaned less frequently than every four (4) hours if:

(a) In storage, containers of potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) and their contents are maintained at temperatures specified in Chapters 6 through 13 and the containers are cleaned when they are empty;

(b) Utensils and equipment are used to prepare food in a refrigerated room or area that is maintained at one of the temperatures in the following chart, the utensils and equipment are cleaned at the frequency in the following chart that corresponds to the temperature, and the cleaning frequency based on the ambient temperature of the refrigerated room or area is documented in the food establishment:

Temperature

Cleaning Frequency

5.0°C (41°F) or less 24 hours

5.0°C - 7.2°C 20 hours

(>41°F - 45°F)

7.2°C - 10.0°C 16 hours

(>45°F - 50°F)

10.0°C - 12.8°C 10 hours

(>50°F - 55°F)

(c) Containers in serving situations such as salad bars, delis, and cafeteria lines hold ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is maintained at the temperatures specified in Chapters 6 through 13 are intermittently combined with additional supplies of the same food that is at the required temperature, and the containers are cleaned at least every twenty-four (24) hours;

(d) Temperature measuring devices are maintained in contact with food, such as when left in a container of deli food or in a roast, held at temperatures specified in Chapters 6 through 13;

(e) Equipment is used for storage of packaged or unpackaged food such as a reach-in refrigerator and the equipment is cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues;

(f) The cleaning schedule is approved based on consideration of:

(1) Characteristics of the equipment and its use;

(2) The type of food involved;

(3) The amount of food residue accumulation; and

(4) The temperature at which the food is maintained during the operation, and the potential for the rapid and progressive multiplication of pathogenic or toxigenic microorganisms that are capable of causing foodborne disease; and

(g) In-use utensils are intermittently stored in a container of water in which the water is maintained at fifty-seven degrees Celsius (57o C) (one hundred and thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit (135° F)) or more and the utensils and container are cleaned at least every twenty-four (24) hours or at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues.

1901.5 Except when dry cleaning methods are used as specified in § 1904, surfaces of utensils and equipment in contact with food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food) shall be cleaned:

(a) At any time when contamination may have occurred;

(b) At least every twenty-four (24) hours for iced tea dispensers and consumer self-service utensils such as tongs, scoops, or ladles;

(c) Before restocking consumer self-service equipment and utensils such as condiment dispensers and display containers; and

(d) In equipment such as ice bins and beverage dispensing nozzles and enclosed components of equipment such as ice makers, cooking oil storage tanks and distribution lines, beverage and syrup dispensing lines or tubes, coffee bean grinders, and water vending equipment:

(1) At a frequency specified by the manufacturer; or

(2) Absent manufacturer specifications, at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil or mold.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1902 FREQUENCY ─ COOKING AND BAKING EQUIPMENT

1902.1 The food-contact surfaces of cooking and baking equipment shall be cleaned at least every twenty-four (24) hours. This section does not apply to hot oil cooking and filtering equipment if it is cleaned as specified in § 1901.4.

1902.2 The cavities and door seals of microwave ovens shall be cleaned at least every twenty-four (24) hours by using the manufacturer's recommended cleaning procedure.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1903 FREQUENCY ─ NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES

1903.1 Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1904 METHODS ─ DRY CLEANING

1904.1 If used, dry cleaning methods such as brushing, scraping, and vacuuming shall contact only surfaces that are soiled with dry food residues that are not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food).

1904.2 Cleaning equipment used in dry cleaning food-contact surfaces shall not be used for any other purpose.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1905 METHODS ─ PRECLEANING

1905.1 Food debris on equipment and utensils shall be scrapped over a waste disposal unit, or garbage receptacle or shall be removed in a warewashing machine with a prewash cycle.

1905.2 If necessary for effective cleaning, utensils and equipment shall be preflushed, presoaked, or scrubbed with abrasives.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1906 METHODS ─ LOADING OF SOILED ITEMS, WAREWASHING MACHINES

1906.1 Soiled items to be cleaned in a warewashing machine shall be loaded into racks, trays, or baskets or onto conveyors in a position that:

(a) Exposes the items to the unobstructed spray from all cycles; and

(b) Allows the items to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1907 METHODS ─ WET CLEANING

1907.1 Equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be effectively washed to remove or completely loosen soils by using the manual or mechanical means necessary such as the application of detergents containing wetting agents and emulsifiers; acid, alkaline, or abrasive cleaners; hot water; brushes; scouring pads; high-pressure sprays; or ultrasonic devices.

1907.2 The washing procedures selected shall be based on the type and purpose of the equipment or utensil, and on the type of soil to be removed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1908 METHODS ─ WASHING, PROCEDURES FOR ALTERNATIVE MANUAL WAREWASHING EQUIPMENT

1908.1 If washing in sink compartments or a warewashing machine is impractical such as when the equipment is fixed or the utensils are too large, washing shall be done by using alternative manual warewashing equipment as specified in § 1601.3, in accordance with the following procedures:

(a) Equipment shall be disassembled as necessary to allow access of the detergent solution to all parts;

(b) Equipment components and utensils shall be scrapped or rough cleaned to remove food particle accumulation; and

(c) Equipment and utensils shall be washed as specified in § 1907.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1909 METHODS ─ RINSING PROCEDURES

1909.1 Washed utensils and equipment shall be rinsed so that abrasives are removed and cleaning chemicals are removed or diluted through the use of water or a detergent-sanitizer solution by using one (1) of the following procedures:

(a) Use of a distinct, separate water rinse after washing and before sanitizing if using:

(1) A three (3)-compartment sink;

(2) Alternative manual warewashing equipment equivalent to a three (3)-compartment sink as specified in § 1601.3; or

(3) A three (3)-step washing, rinsing, and sanitizing procedure in a warewashing system for CIP equipment;

(b) Use of a detergent-sanitizer as specified in § 1814 if using:

(1) Alternative warewashing equipment as specified in § 1601.3 that is approved for use with a detergent-sanitizer; or

(2) A warewashing system for CIP equipment;

(c) Use of a nondistinct water rinse that is integrated in the hot water sanitization immersion step of a two (2)-compartment sink operation;

(d) If using a warewashing machine that does not recycle the sanitizing solution as specified in § 1909.1(e), or alternative manual warewashing equipment such as sprayers, use of a nondistinct water rinse that is:

(1) Integrated in the application of the sanitizing solution; and

(2) Wasted immediately after each application; or

(e) If using a warewashing machine that recycles the sanitizing solution for use in the next wash cycle, use of a nondistinct water rinse that is integrated in the application of the sanitizing solution.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 1910 METHODS ─ CLEANING FOR REFILLING OF RETURNABLES

1910.1 Returned empty containers intended for cleaning and refilling with food shall be cleaned and refilled in a regulated food processing plant, except as specified in §§ 1910.2 and 1910.3. P

1910.2 A food-specific container for beverages may be refilled at a food establishment if:

(a) Only a beverage that is not a potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) is used as specified in § 815.1;

(b) The design of the container and of the rinsing equipment and the nature of the beverage, when considered together, allow effective cleaning at home or in the food establishment;

(c) Facilities for rinsing before refilling returned containers with fresh, hot water that is under pressure and not recirculated are provided as part of the dispensing system;

(d) The consumer-owned container returned to the food establishment for refilling is refilled for sale or service only to the same consumer; and

(e) The container is refilled by:

(1) An employee of the food establishment; or

(2) The owner of the container if the beverage system includes a contamination-free transfer process that cannot be bypassed by the container owner.

1910.3 Consumer-owned containers that are not food-specific may be filled at a water vending machine or system.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A20 SANITIZATION OF EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

25-A DCMR § 2000 OBJECTIVE ─ FOOD CONTACT SURFACES AND UTENSILS

2000.1 Equipment, food-contact surfaces, and utensils shall be sanitized.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2001 FREQUENCY ─ BEFORE USE AFTER CLEANING

2001.1 Utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment shall be sanitized before use after cleaning. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2002 METHODS ─ HOT WATER AND CHEMICAL

2002.1 After being cleaned, equipment, food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be sanitized in:

(a) Hot water manual operations by immersion for at least thirty (30) seconds as specified in § 1810; P or

(b) Hot water mechanical operations by being cycled through equipment that is set up as specified in §§ 1804, 1811, and 1812 and achieving a utensil surface temperature of seventy-one degrees Celsius (71o C) (one hundred and sixty degrees Fahrenheit (160o F)) as measured by an irreversible registering temperature indicator. P

2002.2 After being cleaned, equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be sanitized in chemical manual or mechanical operations, including the application of sanitizing chemicals by immersion, manual swabbing, brushing, or pressure spraying methods, using a solution as specified in § 1813 by providing:

(a) Except as specified in § 2002.2(b), a contact time of at least ten (10) seconds for a chlorine solution specified in § 1813.2; P

(b) A contact time of at least seven (7) seconds for a chlorine solution of fifty micrograms per liter (50 mg/L) that has a pH of ten (10) or less and a temperature of at least thirty -eight degrees Celsius (38o C) (one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100o F), or a pH of eight (8) or less and a temperature of at least twenty-four degrees Celsius (24o C) (seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit (75o F)); P

(c) A contact time of at least thirty (30) seconds for other chemical sanitizing solutions; P or

(d) A contact time used in relationship with a combination of temperature, concentration, and pH that, when evaluated for efficacy, yields “sanitization”, as defined in this Code. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A21 LAUNDERING OF LINENS

25-A DCMR § 2100 OBJECTIVE ─ CLEAN LINENS

2100.1 Clean linens shall be free from food residues and other soiling matter.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2101 FREQUENCY ─ SPECIFICATIONS

2101.1 Linens that do not come in direct contact with food shall be laundered between operations if they become wet, sticky, or visibly soiled.

2101.2 Cloth gloves used as specified in § 813.4 shall be laundered before being used with a different type of raw animal food such as beef, fish, lamb, pork or poultry.

2101.3 Linens and napkins that are used as specified in § 811 and cloth napkins shall be laundered between each use.

2101.4 Wet wiping cloths shall be laundered daily.

2101.5 Dry wiping cloths shall be laundered as necessary to prevent contamination of food and clean serving utensils.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2102 METHODS ─ STORAGE OF SOILED LINENS

2102.1 Soiled linens shall be kept in clean, nonabsorbent receptacles or clean, washable laundry bags, stored in vermin-proof containers, and transported to prevent contamination of food, clean equipment, clean utensils, and single-service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2103 METHODS ─ MECHANICAL WASHING

2103.1 Linens shall be mechanically washed, except as specified in § 2103.2.

2103.2 In food establishments in which only wiping cloths are laundered as specified in § 1604.2, the wiping cloths may be laundered in a mechanical washer, sink designated only for laundering wiping cloths, or a warewashing or food preparation sink that is cleaned as specified in § 1803.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2104 METHODS ─ USE OF LAUNDRY FACILITIES

2104.1 Laundry facilities on the premises of a food establishment shall be used only for the washing and drying of items used in the operation of the establishment, except as specified in § 2104.2.

2104.2 Separate laundry facilities located on the premises for the purpose of general laundering such as for institutions providing boarding and lodging may also be used for laundering food establishment items.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A22 PROTECTION OF CLEAN EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, AND LINENS

25-A DCMR § 2200 DRYING ─ EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS, AIR-DRYING REQUIRED

2200.1 After cleaning and sanitizing, equipment and utensils:

(a) Shall be air-dried or used after adequate draining as specified in the first paragraph of 40 C.F.R. § 180.940 − Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in antimicrobial formulations (food-contact surface sanitizing solutions), before contact with food; and

(b) Shall not be cloth dried except that utensils that have been air-dried may be polished with cloths that are maintained clean and dry.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2201 DRYING ─ WIPING CLOTHS, AIR-DRYING LOCATIONS

2201.1 Wiping cloths laundered in a food establishment that does not have a mechanical clothes dryer as specified in § 1604.2 shall be air-dried in a location and in a manner that prevents contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles and the wiping cloths. This section does not apply if wiping cloths are stored after laundering in a sanitizing solution as specified in § 1813.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2202 LUBRICATING AND REASSEMBLING ─ FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, AND EQUIPMENT

2202.1 Lubricants as specified in § 3408 shall be applied to food-contact surfaces that require lubrication in a manner that does not contaminate food-contact surfaces.

2202.2 Equipment shall be reassembled so that food-contact surfaces are not contaminated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2203 STORING ─ EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, LINENS, AND SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ARTICLES

2203.1 Cleaned equipment and utensils, laundered linens, and single-service and single use articles, except as specified in § 2203.4, shall be stored:

(a) In a clean, dry location;

(b) Where they are not exposed to splash, dust, or other contamination; and

(c) At least fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) above the floor.

2203.2 Clean equipment and utensils shall be stored as specified in § 2203.1 and shall be stored:

(a) In a self-draining position that allows air drying; and

(b) Covered or inverted.

2203.3 Single-service and single-use articles shall be stored as specified in § 2203.1 and shall be kept in the original protective package or stored by using other means that afford protection from contamination until used.

2203.4 Items that are kept in closed packages may be stored less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) above the floor on dollies, pallets, racks, and skids that are designed as provided in § 1534.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2204 STORING ─ PROHIBITIONS

2204.1 Cleaned and sanitized equipment, utensils, laundered linens, and single-service and single-use articles, except as specified in § 2204.2, shall not be stored:

(a) In locker rooms;

(b) In toilet rooms;

(c) In garbage rooms;

(d) In mechanical rooms;

(e) Under sewer lines that are not shielded to intercept potential drips;

(f) Under leaking water lines including leaking automatic fire sprinkler heads or under lines on which water has condensed;

(g) Under open stairwells; or

(h) Under other sources of contamination.

2204.2 Laundered linens and single-service and single-use articles that are packaged or in a facility such as a cabinet may be stored in a locker room.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2205 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ KITCHENWARE AND TABLEWARE

2205.1 Single-service and single-use articles and cleaned and sanitized utensils shall be handled, displayed, and dispensed so that contamination of food- and lip-contact surfaces is prevented.

2205.2 Knives, forks, and spoons that are not prewrapped shall be presented so that employees and consumers, if consumer self-service is provided, only touch the handles.

2205.3 Single-service articles that are intended for food- or lip-contact shall be furnished for consumer self-service with the original individual wrapper intact or from an approved dispenser.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2206 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ SOILED AND CLEAN TABLEWARE

2206.1 Soiled tableware shall be removed from consumer eating and drinking areas and handled so that clean tableware is not contaminated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2207 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ PRESET TABLEWARE

2207.1 Tableware that is preset shall be protected from contamination by being wrapped, covered, or inverted.

2207.2 When tableware is preset, exposed, unused settings shall be:

(a) Removed when a consumer is seated; or

(b) Cleaned and sanitized before further use if the settings are not removed when a consumer is seated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2208 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ RINSING EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS AFTER CLEANING AND SANITIZING

2208.1 After being cleaned and sanitized, equipment and utensils shall not be rinsed before air drying or use unless:

(a) The rinse is applied directly from a potable water supply by a warewashing machine that is maintained and operated as specified in §§ 1513 through 1535 and §§ 1800 through 1815; and

(b) The rinse is applied only after the equipment and utensils have been sanitized by the application of hot water or by the application of a chemical sanitizer solution whose EPA-registered label use instructions call for rinsing off the sanitizer after it is applied in a commercial warewashing machine.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A23 WATER

25-A DCMR § 2300 SOURCE ─ APPROVED SYSTEM

2300.1 The only approved system for drinking water is the District of Columbia public water system. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2301 SOURCE ─ SYSTEM FLUSHING AND DISINFECTION

2301.1 A drinking water system shall be flushed and disinfected before being placed in service after construction, repair, or modification and after an emergency situation, such as a flood, that may introduce contaminants to the system. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2302 SOURCE ─ BOTTLED DRINKING WATER

2302.1 Bottled drinking water used or sold in a food establishment shall be obtained from approved sources in accordance with 21 C.F.R. § 129 − Processing and Bottling of Bottled Drinking Water. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2303 QUALITY ─ STANDARDS

2303.1 Water from a public water system shall meet 40 C.F.R. § 141 − National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2304 QUALITY ─ NONDRINKING WATER

2304.1 A nondrinking water supply shall be used only if its use is approved. P

2304.2 Nondrinking water shall be used only for nonculinary purposes including, but not limited to, air conditioning, nonfood equipment cooling, and fire protection. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2305 QUANTITY AND AVAILABILITY ─ CAPACITY

2305.1 The water source and system shall be of sufficient capacity to meet the peak water demands of the food establishment. Pf

2305.2 Hot water generation and distribution systems shall be sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the food establishment. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2306 QUANTITY AND AVAILABILITY ─ PRESSURE

2306.1 Hot or cold water under pressure shall be provided to all fixtures, equipment, and nonfood equipment that are required to use hot or cold water, except that water supplied as specified in §§ 2308.1(a) and (b) to a temporary food establishment or in response to a temporary interruption of a water supply need not be under pressure. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2307 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION ─ SYSTEM

2307.1 Water shall be received from the source through the use of an approved public water main; Pf or through one of the following that shall be constructed, maintained, and operated according to 40 C.F.R. § 141 − National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards: Pf

(a) Water transport vehicles; Pf or

(b) Water containers. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2308 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION ─ ALTERNATIVE WATER SUPPLY

2308.1 Water meeting the requirements specified in §§ 2300 through 2306 shall be made available for a mobile facility, for a temporary food establishment without a permanent water supply, and for a food establishment with a temporary interruption of its water supply through:

(a) A supply of containers of commercially bottled drinking water; Pf

(b) One (1) or more closed portable water containers; Pf

(c) An enclosed vehicular water tank; Pf

(d) An on-premises water storage tank; Pf or

(e) Piping, tubing, or hoses connected to an adjacent approved source. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A24 PLUMBING SYSTEM

25-A DCMR § 2400 MATERIALS ─ APPROVED MATERIALS, USE

2400.1 A plumbing system and hoses conveying water shall be constructed and repaired with approved materials according to the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR).

2400.2 A water filter shall be made of safe materials. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2401 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ APPROVED SYSTEM AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES

2401.1 A plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, and installed according to the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). P

2401.2 A plumbing fixture such as a handwashing sink, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2402 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ HANDWASHING SINK, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW

2402.1 A handwashing sink shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38o C) (one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100o F)) through a mixing valve or combination faucet. Pf

2402.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

2402.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

2402.4 An automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2403 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION, AIR GAP

2403.1 An air gap between the water supply inlet and the flood level rim of the plumbing fixture, equipment, or nonfood equipment shall be at least twice the diameter of the water supply inlet and may not be less than twenty-five millimeters (25 mm) or one inch (1 in). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2404 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, DESIGN STANDARD

2404.1 A backflow or backsiphonage prevention device installed on a water supply system shall meet American Society of Sanitary Engineering (A.S.S.E.) standards for construction, installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing for that specific application and type of device. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2405 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ CONDITIONING DEVICE, DESIGN

2405.1 A water filter, screen, or other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be designed to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning. A water filter element shall be of the replaceable type.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2406 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ HANDWASHING SINK

2406.1 Handwashing sinks shall be provided for employees’ use in areas specified in Section 2411 in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code (2006) or most recent edition, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). Pf

2406.2 If approved, when food exposure is limited and handwashing sinks are not conveniently available, such as in some mobile or temporary food establishments or at some vending machine locations, employees shall use chemically treated towelettes for handwashing.

2406.3 If approved and capable of removing the types of soils encountered in the food operations involved, automatic handwashing facilities may be substituted for handwashing sinks in a food establishment that has at least one (1) handwashing sink.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2407 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ TOILETS AND URINALS

2407.1 Toilets shall be provided for employees’ use in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). Urinals may be substituted for toilets if the substitution is authorized and conforms to the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2408 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ SERVICE SINKS

2408.1 At least one (1) service sink or one (1) curbed cleaning facility equipped with a floor drain shall be provided and conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet floor cleaning tools and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste.

2408.2 Toilets and urinals shall not be used as a service sink for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2409 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, WHEN REQUIRED

2409.1 A plumbing system shall be installed to preclude backflow of a solid, liquid, or gas contaminant into the water supply system at each point of use at the food establishment, including on a hose bibb if a hose is attached or on a hose bibb if a hose is not attached and backflow prevention is required by the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR) by:

(a) Providing an air gap as specified in § 2403; P or

(b) Installing an approved backflow prevention device as specified in § 2404.P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2410 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, CARBONATOR

2410.1 A dual check valve with an intermediate vent preceded by a screen of not less than one hundred (100) mesh to twenty-five and four millimeters (25.4 mm) one hundred (100) mesh to one inch (1 in.) shall be installed upstream from a carbonating device and downstream from any copper in the water supply line, if not provided with an air gap as specified in § 2403.

2410.2 A dual check valve attached to the carbonator need not be of the vented type if an air gap or vented backflow prevention device has been otherwise provided as specified in § 2410.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2411 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ HANDWASHING SINK

2411.1 A handwashing sink shall be located to allow convenient use by employees in food preparation, food dispensing, and warewashing areas, and in, or immediately adjacent to, toilet rooms. Pf

2411.2 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms shall provide a combination or mixing faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

2411.3 The Department shall permit the continued use of handwashing sinks in which the hot and cold water is delivered through separate faucets until such time as these faucets are relocated or replaced.

2411.4 Handwashing sinks located in, or immediately adjacent to the toilet rooms do not meet the requirements for handwashing sinks in operating areas for persons working in any capacity the activities of which include contact with unprotected food for human consumption, or the care and use of food contact surfaces. Pf

2411.5 Any area of food operation in which fresh meat is handled shall have its own handwashing sink, which shall be located not more than twenty feet (20 ft.) or less from where the meat is handled. P Provided, that the Department shall have the discretion to require that this hand washing sink be located closer than twenty feet (20 ft.) from the area where meat is handled.

2411.6 Handwashing sinks which are outside a toilet room, anteroom, or vestibule, and which serve the toilet room shall not be considered as meeting the requirements of this section for handwashing sinks serving the food operation areas.

2411.7 The Department may permit the continuing use of existing handwashing sinks, to meet the requirements of § 2411.6 if the sinks:

(a) Are immediately adjacent to the operational areas they are intended to serve;

(b) Are not available to or used by the public; and

(c) Do not serve more than three (3) persons when the activities of any person involve contact with unprotected food for human consumption or the care and use of food contact surfaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2412 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE

2412.1 A backflow prevention device shall be located so that it may be serviced and maintained.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2413 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ CONDITIONING DEVICE

2413.1 A water filter, screen, and other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be located to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2414 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ USING A HANDWASHING SINK

2414.1 A handwashing sink shall be maintained so that it is accessible at all times for employee use. Pf

2414.2 A handwashing sink shall not be used for purposes other than handwashing. Pf

2414.3 An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2415 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ PROHIBITING A CROSS CONNECTION

2415.1 A person shall not create a cross connection by connecting a pipe or conduit between the drinking water system and a nondrinking water system or a water system of unknown quality. P

2415.2 The piping of a nondrinking water system shall be durably identified so that it is readily distinguishable from piping that carries drinking water. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2416 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SCHEDULING INSPECTION AND SERVICE FOR A WATER SYSTEM DEVICE

2416.1 A device such as a water treatment device or backflow preventer shall be scheduled for inspection and service in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and as necessary to prevent device failure based on local water conditions. Records demonstrating inspection and service shall be maintained by the person in charge. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2417 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ WATER RESERVOIR OF FOGGING DEVICES, CLEANING

2417.1 A reservoir that is used to supply water to a device such as a produce fogger shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications, and cleaned in accordance with manufacturer's specifications or according to the procedures specified in § 2417.2, whichever is more stringent. P

2417.2 Cleaning procedures shall include at least the following steps and shall be conducted at least once a week:

(a) Draining and complete disassembly of the water and aerosol contact parts; P

(b) Brush-cleaning the reservoir, aerosol tubing, and discharge nozzles with a suitable detergent solution; P

(c) Flushing the complete system with water to remove the detergent solution and particulate accumulation; P and

(d) Rinsing by immersing, spraying, or swabbing the reservoir, aerosol tubing, and discharge nozzles with at least fifty micrograms per liter (50 mg/L) hypochlorite solution. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2418 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SYSTEM MAINTAINED IN GOOD REPAIR

2418.1 A plumbing system shall be:

(a) Repaired according to the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR); and

(b) Maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2419 EXCEPTION TO PLUMBING FACILITIES REQUIREMENTS

2419.1 If a food establishment is indoors and is involved exclusively with previously wrapped, canned, packaged, or bottled food, or with whole nuts, fruits or vegetables that are commonly washed, peeled, shelled, or cooked by the consumer before being eaten, the facilities required in this chapter may be provided at a suitable designated location elsewhere within the same building, if they are readily available.

2419.2 If the food establishment is entirely outdoors but not in a vehicle and is involved exclusively with previously wrapped, canned, packaged, or bottled food, or with whole nuts, fruits, or vegetables that are commonly washed, peeled, shelled, or cooked by the consumer before being eaten, the facilities required in this chapter may be provided at a suitable, designated location, if they are readily available.

2419.3 If the food establishment is a vehicle involved exclusively with previously wrapped, canned, packaged, or bottled food, or with whole nuts, fruits, or vegetables that are commonly washed, peeled, shelled, or cooked by the consumer before being eaten, the facilities required in this chapter need not be provided in the vehicle if they are provided at a suitable, designated location, if they are readily available.

2419.4 If the facilities for the cleansing of a vehicle used as a food establishment and the toilet facilities required by section 3101 are provided at a designated location, the facilities need not be provided within the vehicle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 6184, 6300-01 (July 5, 2002).

25-A25 MOBILE WATER TANK AND MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT WATER TANK

25-A DCMR § 2500 MATERIALS ─ APPROVED MATERIALS, USE

2500.1 Materials that are used in the construction of a mobile water tank, mobile food establishment water tank, and appurtenances shall be safe, durable, corrosion-resistant, nonabsorbent, and finished to have a smooth, easily cleanable surface.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2501 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ ENCLOSED SYSTEM, SLOPED TO DRAIN

2501.1 A mobile water tank shall be enclosed from the filling inlet to the discharge outlet and sloped to an outlet that allows complete drainage of the tank.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2502 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ ACCESS PORT, PROTECTED AND SECURED

2502.1 If a water tank is designed with an access port for inspection and cleaning, the opening shall be in the top of the tank, flanged upward at least thirteen millimeters (13 mm) or a half inch (1/2 in.) and equipped with a port cover assembly that is provided with a gasket and a device for securing the cover in place and flanged to overlap the opening and sloped to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2503 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ "V" TYPE THREADS, USE LIMITATION

2503.1 A fitting with "V" type threads on a water tank inlet or outlet shall be allowed only when a hose is permanently attached.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2504 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ TANK VENT, PROTECTED

2504.1 If provided, a water tank vent shall terminate in a downward direction and shall be covered with a sixteen (16) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25.4 mm.) or sixteen (16) mesh to one inch (1 in.) screen or equivalent when the vent is in a protected area or a protective filter when the vent is in an area that is not protected from windblown dirt and debris.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2505 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ INLET AND OUTLET, SLOPED TO DRAIN

2505.1 A water tank and its inlet and outlet shall be sloped to drain.

2505.2 A water tank inlet shall be positioned so that it is protected from contaminants such as waste discharge, road dust, oil, or grease.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2506 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ DRINKING WATER HOSE, CONSTRUCTION AND IDENTIFICATION

2506.1 A hose used for conveying drinking water from a water tank, shall be safe, durable, corrosion-resistant, nonabsorbent, and shall be:

(a) Resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion, and decomposition;

(b) Finished with a smooth interior surface; and

(c) Clearly and durably identified as to its use if not permanently attached.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2507 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ FILTER, COMPRESSED AIR

2507.1 A filter that does not pass oil or oil vapors shall be installed in the air supply line between the compressor and drinking water system when compressed air is used to pressurize the water tank system. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2508 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ PROTECTIVE COVER OR DEVICE

2508.1 A cap and keeper chain, closed cabinet, closed storage tube, or other approved protective cover or device shall be provided for a water inlet, outlet, and hose.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2509 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT TANK INLET

2509.1 A mobile food establishment's water tank inlet shall be nineteen and one tenth millimeters (19.1 mm) or three fourths inch (3/4 in.) in inner diameter or less and provided with a hose connection of a size or type that will prevent its use for any other service.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2510 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SYSTEM FLUSHING AND DISINFECTION

2510.1 A water tank, pump, and hoses shall be flushed and sanitized before being placed in service after construction, repair, modification, and periods of nonuse. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2511 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ USING A PUMP AND HOSES, BACKFLOW PREVENTION

2511.1 A person shall operate a water tank, pump, and hoses so that backflow and other contamination of the water supply are prevented.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2512 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ PROTECTING INLET, OUTLET, AND HOSE FITTING

2512.1 If not in use, a water tank and hose inlet and outlet fitting shall be protected using a cover or device as specified in § 2508.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2513 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ TANK, PUMP, AND HOSES, DEDICATION

2513.1 Except as provided in § 2513.2, a water tank, pump, and hoses used for conveying drinking water shall be used for no other purpose. P

2513.2 Water tanks, pumps, and hoses approved for liquid foods may be used for conveying drinking water if they are cleaned and sanitized before they are used to convey water.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A26 SEWAGE, OTHER LIQUID WASTE, AND RAINWATER

25-A DCMR § 2600 MOBILE HOLDING TANK, CAPACITY, AND DRAINAGE

2600.1 A sewage holding tank in a mobile food establishment shall be fifteen percent (15() larger in capacity than the water supply tank and sloped to a drain that is twenty-five millimeters (25 mm) or one inch (1 in.) in inner diameter or greater, equipped with a shut-off valve.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2601 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ DRAINAGE SYSTEM

2601.1 Food establishment drainage systems, including grease traps, that convey sewage shall be designed and installed as specified in § 2401.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2602 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION

2602.1 Except as specified in §§ 2602.2 through 2602.4, a direct connection shall not exist between the sewage system and a drain originating from equipment in which food, portable equipment, or utensils are placed. P

2602.2 Subsection 2602.1 does not apply to floor drains that originate in refrigerated spaces that are constructed as an integral part of the building.

2602.3 A warewashing machine may have a direct connection between its waste outlet and a floor drain when the machine is located within one and a half meters (1.5 m) or five feet (5 ft.) of a trapped floor drain and the machine outlet is connected to the inlet side of a properly vented floor drain trap in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR).

2602.4 A warewashing or culinary sink may have a direct connection in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2603 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ GREASE TRAP

2603.1 A grease trap shall be easily accessible for cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2604 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ CONVEYING SEWAGE

2604.1 Sewage shall be conveyed to the point of disposal through an approved sanitary sewage system or other system, including use of sewage transport vehicles, waste retention tanks, pumps, pipes, hoses, and connections that are constructed, maintained, and operated in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2605 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ REMOVING MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT WASTES

2605.1 Removal of sewage and other liquid waste, including grease collections, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter. A copy of the establishment’s professional service contract shall be maintained at all approved waste servicing areas, or at the mobile food establishment by the licensee and the following documents shall be available for inspection: Pf

(a) Name and address of the licensee’s District-licensed sewage and liquid waste transport contractor;

(b) Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of sewage and liquid waste removal services provided under the contract.

2605.2 Sewage and other liquid wastes shall be removed from a mobile food establishment at an approved waste servicing area or by a sewage transport vehicle in such a way that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2606 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY ─ FLUSHING A WASTE RETENTION TANK

2606.1 A tank for liquid waste retention shall be thoroughly flushed and drained in a sanitary manner during the servicing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2607 DISPOSAL FACILITY ─ APPROVED SYSTEM

2607.1 Sewage shall be disposed through an approved facility that is a public sewage treatment plant or an individual sewage disposal system that is sized, constructed, maintained, and operated according to the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR).P

2607.2 Each food establishment served by a sanitary sewer and conducting any activity or activities which generate food wastes shall have and use one (1) or more commercial food waste grinders that are conveniently located near each such activity and which have adequate capacity to dispose of all readily grindable food waste produced. Pf

2607.3 Commercial food waste grinders shall be connected to a drain a minimum of two inches (2 in.) fifty-one millimeters (51 mm) in diameter. Commercial food waste grinders shall be connected and trapped separately from any other fixtures or sink compartments, and shall be provided with a supply of cold water in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code 2006, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2608 DISPOSAL FACILITY ─ OTHER LIQUID WASTES AND RAINWATER

2608.1 Condensate drainage and other nonsewage liquids and rainwater shall be drained from point of discharge to disposal according to applicable District laws and regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A27 REFUSE, RECYCLABLES, AND RETURNABLES

25-A DCMR § 2700 FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ INDOOR STORAGE AREA

2700.1 If located within a food establishment, storage areas for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall meet the requirements specified in Chapters 28 and 29.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2701 FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ OUTDOOR STORAGE SURFACE

2701.1 An outdoor storage surface for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2702 FACILITIES ON THE PREMISES ─ OUTDOOR ENCLOSURE

2702.1 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2703 FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ RECEPTACLES

2703.1 Except as specified in § 2703.2, receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables and for use with materials containing food residue shall be durable, cleanable, insect and rodent resistant, leak proof, and nonabsorbent.

2703.2 Plastic bags and wet strength paper bags may be used to line receptacles for storage inside the food establishment or within closed outside receptacles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2704 FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ RECEPTACLES IN VENDING MACHINES

2704.1 Except for a receptacle for beverage bottle crown closures, a refuse receptacle shall not be located within a vending machine.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2705 FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ OUTSIDE RECEPTACLES

2705.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables used with materials containing food residue and used outside the food establishment shall be designed and constructed to have tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers.

2705.2 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse and recyclables such as an on-site compactor shall be installed so that accumulation of debris and insect and rodent attraction and harborage are minimized, and effective cleaning is facilitated around and, if the unit is not installed flush with the base pad, under the unit.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2706 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ STORAGE AREAS, ROOMS, AND RECEPTACLES

2706.1 An inside storage room and area, outside storage area and enclosure, and receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the refuse, recyclables, and returnables that accumulate.

2706.2 A receptacle shall be provided in each area of the food establishment or premises where refuse is generated or commonly discarded, or where recyclables or returnables are placed.

2706.3 If disposable towels are used at handwashing sinks, a waste receptacle shall be located at each sink or group of adjacent sinks.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2707 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE, COVERED

2707.1 A toilet room used by females shall be provided with a covered receptacle for feminine hygiene products.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2708 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ CLEANING IMPLEMENTS AND SUPPLIES

2708.1 Except as specified in § 2708.2, suitable cleaning implements and supplies such as high-pressure pumps, hot water, steam, and detergent shall be provided as necessary for effective cleaning of receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables.

2708.2 If approved by the Department as specified in § 2708.1, off-premises-based cleaning services may be used if on-premises cleaning implements and supplies are not provided.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2709 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ STORAGE AREAS, REDEEMING MACHINES, RECEPTACLES, AND WASTE HANDLING UNITS

2709.1 An area designated for refuse, recyclables, returnables, and, except as specified in § 2709.2, a redeeming machine for recyclables or returnables shall be located so that it is separate from food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles, and a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

2709.2 A redeeming machine may be located in the packaged food storage area or consumer area of a food establishment if food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles are not subject to contamination from the machines and a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

2709.3 The location of receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance or interfere with the cleaning of adjacent space.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2710 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ STORING REFUSE, RECYCLABLES, AND RETURNABLES

2710.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be stored in receptacles or waste handling units so that they are inaccessible to insects and rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2711 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ AREAS, ENCLOSURES, AND RECEPTACLES, GOOD REPAIR

2711.1 Storage areas, enclosures, and receptacles for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2712 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ OUTSIDE STORAGE PROHIBITIONS

2712.1 Except as specified in § 2712.2, refuse receptacles not meeting the requirements specified in § 2703 such as receptacles that are not rodent-resistant, unprotected plastic bags and paper bags, or baled units that contain materials with food residue shall not be stored outside.

2712.2 Cardboard or other packaging material that does not contain food residues and is awaiting regularly scheduled delivery to a recycling or disposal site may be stored outside without being in a covered receptacle if it is stored so that it does not create a rodent harborage problem.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2713 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ COVERING RECEPTACLES

2713.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be kept covered inside the food establishment if the receptacles and units contain food residue and are not in continuous use or after the receptacles and units are filled.

2713.2 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be kept covered with tight-fitting lids or doors if kept outside the food establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2714 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ USING DRAIN PLUGS

2714.1 Drains in receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall have drain plugs in place.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2715 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ REFUSE AREAS AND ENCLOSURES

2715.1 A storage area and enclosure for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be maintained free of unnecessary items, and kept clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2716 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ CLEANING RECEPTACLES

2716.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be thoroughly cleaned in a way that does not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, linens, or single-service and single-use articles, and waste water shall be disposed of as specified in §§ 2605 and 2607.

2716.2 Soiled receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to prevent them from developing a buildup of soil or becoming attractants for insects and rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2717 REMOVAL ─ FREQUENCY

2717.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be removed from the premises at a frequency that will minimize the development of objectionable odors and other conditions that attract or harbor insects and rodents.

2717.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and the following documents shall be available for inspection: Pf

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed trash or solid waste contractor;

(b) Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of trash or solid waste collection services provided under the contract.

2717.3 Trash or solid waste collection shall comply with Chapter 7 of Title 21 of the DCMR.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2718 REMOVAL ─ RECEPTACLES OR VEHICLES

2718.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be removed from the premises by way of:

(a) Portable receptacles that comply with this chapter; or

(b) A District-licensed transport vehicle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2719 FACILITIES FOR DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING COMMUNITY OR INDIVIDUAL FACILITY

2719.1 Except as specified in section 2719.2, solid waste not disposed of through the sewage system such as through grinders and pulpers shall be recycled or disposed of in an approved public or private community recycling or refuse facility.

2719.2 Solid waste may be disposed of in an individual refuse facility such as a landfill or incinerator, which is properly sized, constructed, maintained, and operated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 6184, 6309-10 (July 5, 2002).

25-A28 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-A DCMR § 2800 COMPLIANCE WITH DISTRICT LAWS

2800.1 The Department shall use this Code to promote the safeguarding of public health and ensure that food establishments are safe and in compliance with other District laws and regulations. The most current versions of the following District regulations are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) The District’s Construction Codes of 2008, consisting of the following International Code Council (ICC):

(1) International Building Code (2006 edition);

(2) International Mechanical Code (2006 edition);

(3) International Plumbing Code (2006 edition);

(4) International Fire Code (2006 edition); and

(5) International Existing Building Code (2006 edition); and

(b) The District’s Construction Code Supplements (2008), Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (12 DCMR), as amended.

2800.2 In enforcing these regulations, the Department shall assess the physical structure; operating systems; design, operation and maintenance of equipment, and fixtures of existing food establishments in use before the effective date of this Code based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the facilities, equipment, or fixtures are in good repair and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition; and

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the facility’s operating systems, or equipment or fixtures will be replaced as specified in § 4310.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2801 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ BUILDING MATERIALS & WORKMANSHIP

2801.1 The licensee of an existing food establishment shall maintain in good condition the physical integrity of its food establishment by repairing or replacing structural or design defects, operating systems, or fixtures in use before the effective date of this Code in accordance with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, as specified in § 2800.1.

2801.2 The licensee of a newly constructed, remodeled or renovated food establishment shall ensure that the design, construction, building materials, and workmanship complies with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, as specified in § 2800.1 and this subtitle.

2801.3 At least thirty (30) days before beginning construction or remodeling of a food establishment, the licensee shall submit construction plans with all schedules, including but not limited to floor plans, elevations, and schematics to the Department for review and approval, as specified in § 4200.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2802 INDOOR AREAS ─ SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS

2802.1 Except as specified in § 2802.2, materials for indoor floor, wall, and ceiling surfaces under conditions of normal use shall be:

(a) Smooth, durable, and easily cleanable for areas where food establishment operations are conducted;

(b) Closely woven and easily cleanable carpet for carpeted areas; and

(c) Nonabsorbent for areas subject to moisture such as food preparation areas, walk-in refrigerators, warewashing areas, toilet rooms, mobile food establishment servicing areas, and areas subject to flushing or spray cleaning methods.

2802.2 In a temporary food establishment:

(a) If graded to drain, a floor shall be concrete, machine-laid asphalt, or dirt or gravel if it is covered with mats, removable platforms, duckboards, or other approved materials that are effectively treated to control dust and mud; and

(b) Walls and ceilings shall be constructed of a material that protects the interior from the weather and windblown dust and debris.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2803 OUTDOOR AREAS ─ SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS

2803.1 The outdoor walking and driving areas shall be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or gravel or other materials that have been effectively treated to minimize dust, facilitate maintenance, and prevent muddy conditions.

2803.2 Exterior surfaces of buildings and mobile food establishments shall be of weather-resistant materials, and shall comply with applicable District laws and regulations and the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code (2006) or most recent edition, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). Pf

2803.3 Outdoor storage areas for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be constructed of materials specified in §§ 2701 and 2702.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A29 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-A DCMR § 2900 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOORS, WALLS, AND CEILINGS

2900.1 Except as specified in § 2903 and except for antislip floor coverings or applications may be used for safety reasons, floors, floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2901 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

2901.1 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed.

2901.2 Exposed utility service lines and pipes shall be installed so they do not obstruct or prevent cleaning of the floors, walls, or ceilings.

2901.3 Exposed horizontal utility service lines and pipes shall not be installed on the floor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2902 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTURES, COVED, AND ENCLOSED OR SEALED

2902.1 In food establishments in which cleaning methods other than water flushing are used for cleaning floors, the floor and wall junctures shall be coved and closed to no larger than one millimeter (1 mm) or one thirty-second of an inch (1/32 in.).

2902.2 The floors in food establishments in which water flush cleaning methods are used shall be provided with drains and be graded to drain and the floor and wall junctures shall be coved and sealed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2903 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR CARPETING, RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION

2903.1 A floor covering such as carpeting or similar material shall not be installed as a floor covering in food preparation areas, walk-in refrigerators, warewashing areas, toilet room areas where handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals are located, refuse storage rooms, or other areas where the floor is subject to moisture, flushing, or spray cleaning methods.

2903.2 If carpeting is installed as a floor covering in areas other than those specified in § 2903.1, it shall be:

(a) Securely attached to the floor with a durable mastic, by using a stretch and tack method, or by another similar method; and

(b) Installed tightly against the wall under the coving or installed away from the wall with a space between the carpet and the wall and with the edges of the carpet secured by metal stripping or some other means.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2904 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR COVERING, MATS, AND DUCKBOARDS

2904.1 Mats and duckboards shall be designed to be removable and easily cleanable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2905 CLEANABILITY ─ WALL AND CEILING COVERINGS AND COATINGS

2905.1 Wall and ceiling covering materials shall be attached so that they are easily cleanable.

2905.2 Except in areas used only for dry storage, concrete, porous blocks, or bricks used for indoor wall construction shall be finished and sealed to provide a smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable surface.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2906 CLEANABILITY ─ WALLS AND CEILINGS, AND ATTACHMENTS

2906.1 Except as specified in § 2906.2, attachments to walls and ceilings such as light fixtures, mechanical room ventilation system components, vent covers, wall mounted fans, decorative items, and other attachments shall be easily cleanable.

2906.2 In a consumer area, wall and ceiling surfaces and decorative items and attachments that are provided for ambiance need not meet the requirement of § 2906.1 if they are kept clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2907 CLEANABILITY ─ WALLS AND CEILINGS, STUDS, JOISTS, AND RAFTERS

2907.1 Except in temporary food establishments, studs, joists, and rafters shall not be exposed in areas subject to moisture.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2908 FUNCTIONALITY ─ LIGHT BULBS, PROTECTIVE SHIELDING

2908.1 Except as specified in § 2908.2, light bulbs shall be shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant in areas where there is exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, or unwrapped single-service and single-use articles.

2908.2 Shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant bulbs need not be used in areas used only for storing food in unopened packages, if:

(a) The integrity of the packages cannot be affected by broken glass falling onto them; and

(b) The packages are capable of being cleaned of debris from broken bulbs before the packages are opened.

2908.3 An infrared or other heat lamp shall be protected against breakage by a shield surrounding and extending beyond the bulb so that only the face of the bulb is exposed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2909 FUNCTIONALITY ─ HEATING, VENTILATING, AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM VENTS, AND TEMPERATURE

2909.1 Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems shall be designed and installed so that make-up air intake and exhaust vents do not cause contamination of food, food-contact surfaces, equipment, or utensils.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2910 FUNCTIONALITY ─ INSECT CONTROL DEVICES, DESIGN, AND INSTALLATION

2910.1 Insect control devices that are used to electrocute or sting flying insects shall be designed to retain the insect within the device.

2910.2 Insect control devices shall be installed so that:

(a) The devices are not located over a food preparation area; and

(b) Dead insects and insect fragments are prevented from being impelled onto or falling on exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, or unwrapped single-service or single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2911 FUNCTIONALITY ─ TOILET ROOMS, ENCLOSED

2911.1 Toilet rooms shall not open directly into a room used for the preparation of food for service to the public and shall be provided with a tight-fitting and self-closing door in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code (2006) or most recent edition, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR). Pf

2911.2 Except as specified in § 2911.1, toilet rooms provided by the management of a shopping mall that are located outside of food establishments and that do not open directly into a food establishment do not have to be completely enclosed, with tight-fitting and self-closing doors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2912 FUNCTIONALITY ─ OUTER OPENINGS, PROTECTED

2912.1 Except as otherwise specified in §§ 2912.2 through 2912.5, the outer openings of a food establishment shall be protected against the entry of insects and rodents by:

(a) Filling or closing holes and other gaps along floors, walls, and ceilings;

(b) Closed, tight-fitting windows; and

(c) Solid, self-closing, tight-fitting doors.

2912.2 Subsection 2912.1 shall not apply if a food establishment opens into a larger structure, such as a mall, airport, or office building, or into an attached structure, such as a porch, and the outer openings from the larger or attached structure are protected against the entry of insects and rodents.

2912.3 Exterior doors used as exits need not be self-closing if they are:

(a) Solid and tight-fitting;

(b) Designated only for emergency use by the Fire Department; and

(c) Restricted so they are not used for entrance or exit from the building for purposes other than the designated emergency exit use.

2912.4 Except as specified § 2912.2 and § 2912.5, if the windows or doors of a food establishment, or of a larger structure within which a food establishment is located, are kept open for ventilation or other purposes or if a temporary food establishment is not provided with windows and doors as specified in § 2912.1, the openings shall be protected against the entry of insects and rodents by:

(a) Sixteen (16) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25.4 mm) or sixteen (16) mesh to one inch (1 in.) screens;

(b) Properly designed and installed air curtains to control flying insects; or

(c) Other effective means that prohibit the entry of insects and rodents to a similar degree.

2912.5 Subsection 2912.4 does not apply if flying insects and other pests are absent due to the location of the establishment, the weather, or other limiting conditions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2913 FUNCTIONALITY ─ EXTERIOR WALLS AND ROOFS, PROTECTIVE BARRIER

2913.1 Perimeter walls and roofs of a food establishment shall effectively protect the establishment from the weather and the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2914 FUNCTIONALITY ─ OUTDOOR FOOD VENDING AREAS, OVERHEAD PROTECTION

2914.1 Except for machines that vend canned beverages, if located outside, a machine used to vend food shall be provided with overhead protection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2915 FUNCTIONALITY ─ OUTDOOR SERVICING AREAS, OVERHEAD PROTECTION

2915.1 Except for areas used only for the loading of water or the discharge of sewage and other liquid waste, through the use of a closed system of hoses, servicing areas shall be provided with overhead protection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2916 FUNCTIONALITY ─ OUTDOOR WALKING AND DRIVING SURFACES, GRADED TO DRAIN

2916.1 Exterior walking and driving surfaces shall be graded to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2917 FUNCTIONALITY ─ OUTDOOR REFUSE AREAS, CURBED AND GRADED TO DRAIN

2917.1 Outdoor refuse areas shall be constructed, curbed and graded to drain to collect and dispose of liquid waste that results from the refuse and from cleaning the area and waste receptacles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2918 FUNCTIONALITY ─ PRIVATE HOMES AND LIVING OR SLEEPING QUARTERS, USE PROHIBITION

2918.1 A private home, a room used as living or sleeping quarters, or an area directly opening into a room used as living or sleeping quarters shall not be used for conducting food establishment operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 2919 FUNCTIONALITY ─ LIVING OR SLEEPING QUARTERS, SEPARATION

2919.1 Living or sleeping quarters located on the premises of a food establishment such as those provided for lodging registration clerks or resident managers shall be separated from rooms and areas used for food establishment operations by complete partitioning and solid, self-closing doors.

2919.2 Access to any place designed, intended, or used for human habitation shall not be through a food establishment, but shall be by means of a separate entrance.

2919.3 Access to a food establishment shall be through space available for use by the public and shall not be through any place designed, intended, or used for human habitation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A30 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-A DCMR § 3000 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ MINIMUM NUMBER

3000.1 Handwashing sinks shall be provided as specified in § 2406.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3001 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ HANDWASHING CLEANSER, AVAILABILITY

3001.1 Each handwashing sink or group of two (2) adjacent sinks shall be provided with a supply of hand cleaning liquid, powder, or bar soap. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3002 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ HAND DRYING PROVISION

3002.1 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with:

(a) Individual, disposable towels; Pf

(b) A continuous towel system that supplies the user with a clean towel; Pf

(c) A heated-air hand drying device that is provided in addition to other hand- drying devices at sinks used for food preparation or warewashing areas; Pf or

(d) A hand drying device that employs an air-knife system that delivers high velocity, pressurized air at ambient temperatures. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3003 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ HANDWASHING AIDS AND DEVICES, USE RESTRICTIONS

3003.1 A sink used for food preparation or utensil washing, or a service sink or curbed cleaning facility used for the disposal of mop water or similar wastes, shall not be provided with the handwashing aids and devices required for a handwashing sink as specified in §§ 3001, 3002, and 2706.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3004 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ HANDWASHING SIGNAGE

3004.1 A sign or poster that notifies food employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks used by food employees and shall be clearly visibly to food employees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3005 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ DISPOSABLE TOWELS, WASTE RECEPTACLE

3005.1 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is provided with disposable towels shall be provided with a waste receptacle as specified in § 2706.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3006 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ MINIMUM NUMBER

3006.1 Toilets and urinals shall be provided as specified in § 2407.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3007 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ TOILET TISSUE, AVAILABILITY

3007.1 A supply of toilet tissue shall be available at each toilet. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3008 LIGHTING ─ INTENSITY

3008.1 The light intensity shall be:

(a) At least one hundred eight (108) lux or ten (10) foot candles at a distance of seventy-five centimeters (75 cm) or thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor, in walk-in refrigeration units and dry food storage areas and in other areas and rooms during periods of cleaning;

(b) At least two hundred fifteen (215) lux or twenty (20) foot candles:

(1) At a surface where food is provided for consumer self-service, such as buffets and salad bars, or where fresh produce or packaged foods are sold or offered for consumption;

(2) Inside equipment such as reach-in and under-counter refrigerators; and

(3) At a distance of seventy-five centimeters (75 cm) or thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor in areas used for handwashing, warewashing, and equipment and utensil storage, and in toilet rooms; and

(c) At least five hundred forty (540) lux or fifty (50) foot candles at a surface where a food employee is working with food or working with utensils or equipment including knives, slicers, grinders, or saws where employee safety is a factor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3009 VENTILATION ─ MECHANICAL

3009.1 All rooms shall have sufficient tempered make-up air and exhaust ventilation to keep them free of excessive heat, steam, condensation, vapors, obnoxious odors, smoke, and fumes.

3009.2 All ventilation systems, furnaces, gas- or oil-fired room heaters, and water heaters shall be designed, installed, and operated in accordance with the D.C. Plumbing Code (2008) incorporating the International Plumbing Code (2006) or most recent edition, as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement (Subtitle F of 12 DCMR).

3009.3 Each room in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be provided with facilities for at least eight (8) air changes per hour. Recirculation of air is not permitted.

3009.4 Each room in which food or drink is served shall be provided with facilities for at least five (5) air changes per hour, and not more than fifty percent (50%) recirculation of air shall be permitted.

3009.5 Each cooking unit that creates smoke, steam, gases, fumes, odors, vapors, or excessive heat shall be hooded and vented, or locally vented to the outside air by forced draft, in a manner that effectively removes the conditions; provided, that small burners used intermittently for short periods of time, warming equipment, bread toasters, coffee urns, and radiant cooking units need not be so vented unless one (1) or more of the units creates a nuisance, or the Department determines the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system does not adequately vent the room as specified in § 3009.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3010 DRESSING AREAS AND LOCKERS ─ DESIGNATION

3010.1 Dressing rooms or dressing areas shall be designated if employees routinely change their clothes in the establishment.

3010.2 Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be provided for the orderly storage of employees' clothing and other possessions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3011 SERVICE SINKS ─ AVAILABILITY

3011.1 A service sink or curbed cleaning facility shall be provided as specified in § 2408.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A31 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-A DCMR § 3100 HANDWASHING FACILITIES ─ CONVENIENTLY LOCATED

3100.1 Handwashing sinks shall be conveniently located as specified in § 2411.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3101 TOILET ROOMS, RESTROOMS - CONVENIENCE, ACCESSIBILITY, AND REQUIRED GENDER-NEUTRAL SIGNS

3101.1 Each food establishment shall maintain restrooms consisting of a toilet room or toilet rooms, proper and sufficient water closets, and sinks that are conveniently located and readily accessible to all employees as specified in § 3101.3.

3101.2 All single-occupancy toilet rooms shall display gender-neutral signs on the door that read “Restroom,” or have a universally recognized pictorial indicating that persons of any gender may use each restroom, in accordance with 4 DCMR § 802.2).

3101.3 Food establishments employing:

(a) Five (5) or fewer employees may provide only a single toilet facility with a gender-neutral sign on the door in accordance with 4 DCMR § 802.2; or

(b) More than five (5) employees shall have multiple toilet facilities that are either:

(1) Single-occupancy toilet rooms with a gender-neutral sign on each door as specified in § 3101.2 in accordance with 4 DCMR § 802.2; or

(2) Multiple-stall toilet rooms with gender-specific signs on the doors that read “Men” and “Women” or contain gender-specific, universally recognized pictorials of “Men” and “Women”.

3101.4 Sinks shall be located within the toilet room or within an anteroom or vestibule serving the toilet room.

3101.5 The Department may permit in existing businesses the continuing location of existing sinks outside of, but immediately adjacent to, the toilet room.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3102 EMPLOYEE ACCOMMODATIONS ─ DESIGNATED AREAS

3102.1 Areas designated for employees to eat, drink, and use tobacco shall be located so that food, equipment, linens, and single-service and single-use articles are protected from contamination.

3102.2 Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be located in a designated room or area where contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles cannot occur.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3103 DISTRESSED MERCHANDISE ─ SEGREGATION AND LOCATION

3103.1 Products that are held by the licensee for credit, redemption, or return to the distributor, including damaged, spoiled, or recalled products, shall be segregated and held in designated areas that are separated from food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3104 REFUSE, RECYCLABLES, AND RETURNABLES ─ RECEPTACLES, WASTE HANDLING UNITS, AND DESIGNATED STORAGE AREAS

3104.1 Units, receptacles, and areas designated for storage of refuse and recyclable and returnable containers shall be located as specified in § 2709.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A32 MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-A DCMR § 3200 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ REPAIRING

3200.1 Physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3201 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING FREQUENCY AND RESTRICTIONS

3201.1 Physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

3201.2 Except for cleaning that is necessary due to a spill or other accident, cleaning shall be done during periods when the least amount of food is exposed such as after closing.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3202 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING FLOORS, DUSTLESS METHODS

3202.1 Except as specified in § 3202.2, only wet cleaning, vacuum cleaning, mopping with treated dust mops, sweeping using a broom and dust-arresting compounds or other dustless methods of cleaning shall be used to clean floors.

3202.2 Spills or drippage on floors that occur between normal floor cleaning times may be cleaned:

(a) Without the use of dust-arresting compounds; and

(b) In the case of liquid spills or drippage, with the use of a small amount of sawdust or diatomaceous earth or other absorbent compound applied immediately before spot cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3203 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING VENTILATION SYSTEMS, NUISANCE AND DISCHARGE PROHIBITION

3203.1 Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials.

3203.2 If vented to the outside, ventilation systems shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance or unlawful discharge.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3204 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING MAINTENANCE TOOLS, PREVENTING CONTAMINATION

3204.1 Food preparation sinks, handwashing sinks, and warewashing equipment shall not be used to clean maintenance tools, to prepare or hold maintenance materials, or to dispose of mop water or similar liquid wastes. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3205 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ DRYING MOPS

3205.1 After use, mops shall be placed in a position that allows them to air-dry without soiling walls, equipment, or supplies.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3206 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ ABSORBENT MATERIALS ON FLOORS, USE LIMITATION

3206.1 Except as specified in § 3202.2, sawdust, wood shavings, granular salt, baked clay, diatomaceous earth, or similar materials shall not be used on floors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3207 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING PLUMBING FIXTURES

3207.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3208 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLOSING TOILET ROOM DOORS

3208.1 Toilet room doors as specified in § 2911 shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3209 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ USING DRESSING ROOMS AND LOCKERS

3209.1 Employees shall use dressing rooms if they regularly change their clothes in the establishment.

3209.2 Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be used for the orderly storage of employee clothing and other possessions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3210 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CONTROLLING PESTS

3210.1 The premises shall be maintained free of insects, rodents, and other pests. The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence on the premises by: Pf

(a) Routinely inspecting incoming shipments of food and supplies; Pf

(b) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests; Pf

(c) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control as specified in §§ 3402, 3410 and 3411; Pf and

(d) Eliminating harborage conditions. Pf

3210.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, and the following documents shall be available for inspection: Pf

(a) Name and address of its District-licensed Pesticide Operator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3211 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, AND OTHER PESTS

3211.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition, or the attraction of pests.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3212 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ STORING MAINTENANCE TOOLS

3212.1 Maintenance tools such as brooms, mops, vacuum cleaners, and similar items shall be:

(a) Stored so they do not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles; and

(b) Stored in an orderly manner that facilitates cleaning the area used for storing the maintenance tools.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3213 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ MAINTAINING PREMISES, UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND LITTER

3213.1 The premises shall be free of:

(a) Items that are unnecessary to the operation or maintenance of the establishment such as equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used; and

(b) Litter.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3214 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ PROHIBITING ANIMALS

3214.1 Except as otherwise permitted in §§ 3214.2 and 3214.3, live animals shall not be allowed on the premises of a food establishment. Pf

3214.2 Live animals are permitted in the following situations if the contamination of food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles cannot result:

(a) Edible fish or decorative fish in aquariums, shellfish or crustacea on ice or under refrigeration, and shellfish and crustacea in display tank systems;

(b) Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers in offices and dining, patio, sales, and storage areas, and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas;

(c) In areas that are not used for food preparation and that are usually open for customers such as dining, patio, and sales areas, service animals that are controlled by a disabled employee or person, if a health or safety hazard will not result from the presence or activities of the service animal;

(d) Pets in the common dining and patios areas of institutional care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, group homes, or residential care facilities at times other than during meals if:

(1) Effective partitioning and self-closing doors separate the common dining and patio areas from food storage or food preparation areas;

(2) Condiments, equipment, and utensils are stored in enclosed cabinets or removed from the common dining and patio areas when pets are present; and

(3) Dining and patio areas, including tables, countertops, and similar surfaces are effectively cleaned before the next meal service; and

(e) In areas that are not used for food preparation, storage, sales, display, or dining in which there are caged animals or animals that are similarly confined, such as in a variety store that sells pets or a tourist park that displays animals.

3214.3 Live or dead fish bait may be stored if contamination of food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, and unwrapped single-service and single-use articles cannot result.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A33 CERTIFICATIONS, LABELING AND IDENTIFICATION OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-A DCMR § 3300 DISTRICT CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ─ PESTICIDE OPERATORS AND APPLICATOR

3300.1 All licensees shall ensure that individuals who provide pest extermination services to food establishments as specified in § 3210.2 possess current certification as a District Licensed Pesticide Operator issued by the District’s Department of the Environment, Toxic Substances Division, Pesticide Program. Pf

3300.2 Restricted-use pesticides shall be applied only by a licensed certified commercial applicator or a registered employee working under the direct supervision of a licensed commercial or public applicator in accordance with the District’s Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-401, et seq. (2008 Repl.)). Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3301 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS ─ IDENTIFYING INFORMATION, PROMINENCE

3301.1 Containers of poisonous or toxic materials and personal care items shall bear a legible manufacturer's label. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3302 WORKING CONTAINERS – COMMON NAME

3302.1 Working containers used for storing poisonous or toxic materials, such as cleaners and sanitizers taken from bulk supplies shall be clearly and individually identified with the common name of the material. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A34 OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES AND APPLICATIONS OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-A DCMR § 3400 STORAGE ─ SEPARATION

3400.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be stored so they cannot contaminate food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles by:

(a) Separating the poisonous or toxic materials by physically separating or partitioning by a wall or structure; P and

(b) Locating the poisonous or toxic materials in an area that is not above food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service or single-use articles. This paragraph does not apply to equipment and utensil cleaners and sanitizers that are stored in warewashing areas for availability and convenience if the materials are stored to prevent contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3401 PRESENCE AND USE ─ RESTRICTION

3401.1 Only those poisonous or toxic materials that are required for the operation and maintenance of a food establishment, such as for the cleaning and sanitizing of equipment and utensils and the control of insects and rodents, shall be allowed in a food establishment. Pf

3401.2 Subsection 3401.1 does not apply to packaged poisonous or toxic materials that are for retail sale.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3402 PRESENCE AND USE ─ CONDITIONS OF USE

3402.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be used according to:

(a) The Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-401, et seq. (2008 Repl.)), and this Code; Pf

(b) Manufacturer's use directions included in labeling, and, for a pesticide, manufacturer's label instructions that state that use is allowed in a food establishment; P and

(c) The conditions of certification, if certification is required, for use of the pest control materials. P

3402.2 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be applied so that:

(a) A hazard to employees or other persons is not constituted; P and

(b) Contamination including toxic residues due to drip, drain, fog, splash, or spray on food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single- use articles is prevented. P For a restricted-use pesticide this is achieved by:

(1) Removing items listed in Paragraph (b); P

(2) Covering items listed in Paragraph (b) with impermeable covers; P

(3) Taking other appropriate preventive actions; P and

(4) Cleaning and sanitizing equipment and utensils after the application. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3403 CONTAINER PROHIBITIONS ─ POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL CONTAINERS

3403.1 A container previously used to store poisonous or toxic materials shall not be used to store, transport, or dispense food. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3404 CHEMICALS ─ SANITIZERS, CRITERIA

3404.1 Chemical sanitizers and other chemical antimicrobials applied to food-contact surfaces shall meet the requirements of 40 C.F.R. § 180.940 – Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in antimicrobial formulations (food-contact surface sanitizing solutions). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3405 CHEMICALS ─ CHEMICALS FOR WASHING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, CRITERIA

3405.1 Chemicals used to wash or peel raw, whole fruits and vegetables shall meet the requirements of 21 C.F.R. § 173.315 − Chemicals used in washing or to assist in the peeling of fruits and vegetables. P

3405.2 Ozone as an antimicrobial agent used in the treatment, storage, and processing of fruits and vegetables in a food establishment shall meet the requirements of 21 C.F.R. § 173.368 Ozone.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3406 CHEMICALS ─ BOILER WATER ADDITIVES, CRITERIA

3406.1 Chemicals used as boiler water additives shall meet the requirements of 21 C.F.R. § 173.310 − Boiler water additives. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3407 CHEMICALS ─ DRYING AGENTS, CRITERIA

3407.1 Drying agents used in conjunction with sanitization shall contain only components that are listed as one (1) of the following:

(a) Generally recognized as safe for use in food as specified in 21 C.F.R. part 182 − Substances Generally Recognized as Safe or 21 C.F.R. part 184 − Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe; P

(b) Generally recognized as safe for the intended use as specified in 21 C.F.R. part 186 − Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe; P

(c) Approved for use as a drying agent under a prior sanction specified in 21 C.F.R. part 181 − Prior-Sanctioned Food Ingredients; P

(d) Specifically regulated as an indirect food additive for use as a drying agent as specified in 21 C.F.R. parts 175 through 178; P or

(e) Approved for use as a drying agent under the threshold of regulation process established by 21 C.F.R. § 170.39 − Threshold of regulation for substances used in food-contact articles. P

3407.2 When sanitization is used with chemicals, the approval required in §§ 3407.1(c) or (e) or the regulation as an indirect food additive required in Subsection 3407.1(d) shall be specifically for use with chemical sanitizing solutions. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3408 LUBRICANTS ─ INCIDENTAL FOOD CONTACT, CRITERIA

3408.1 Lubricants shall meet the requirements specified in 21 C.F.R. § 178.3570 − Lubricants with incidental food contact, if they are used on food-contact surfaces, on bearings and gears located on or within food-contact surfaces, or on bearings and gears that are located so that lubricants may leak, drip, or be forced into food or onto food-contact surfaces. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3409 PESTICIDES ─ RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDES, CRITERIA

3409.1 Restricted use pesticides specified in § 3300.2 shall meet the requirements specified in 40 C.F.R. part 152 subpart I − Classification of Pesticides. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3410 PESTICIDES ─ RODENT BAIT STATIONS

3410.1 Rodent bait shall be contained in a covered, tamper-resistant bait station. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3411 PESTICIDES ─ TRACKING POWDERS, PEST CONTROL AND MONITORING

3411.1 A tracking powder pesticide shall not be used in a food establishment, except as specified in § 3411.2.

3411.2 A nontoxic tracking powder such as talcum or flour may be used in a food establishment if its use does not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3412 MEDICINES ─ RESTRICTION AND STORAGE

3412.1 Except for medicines that are stored or displayed for retail sale, only those medicines that are necessary for the health of employees shall be allowed in a food establishment. Pf

3412.2 Medicines that are in a food establishment for the employees' use shall be labeled as specified in § 3301 and located to prevent the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3413 MEDICINES ─ REFRIGERATED MEDICINES, STORAGE

3413.1 Medicines belonging to employees or to children in a day care center that require refrigeration and are stored in a food refrigerator shall be:

(a) Stored in a package or container and kept inside a covered, leak proof container that is identified as a container for the storage of medicines; P and

(b) Located so they are inaccessible to children. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3414 FIRST AID SUPPLIES ─ STORAGE

3414.1 First aid supplies that are in a food establishment for the employees' use shall be:

(a) Labeled as specified in § 3301; Pf and

(b) Stored in a kit or a container that is located to prevent the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, and linens, and single-service and single-use articles. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3415 OTHER PERSONAL CARE ITEMS ─ STORAGE

3415.1 Employees shall store their personal care items in separate cabinets or storage lockers specified in § 3010.2, except as specified in §§ 3413 and 3414.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A35 STOCK AND RETAIL SALE OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-A DCMR § 3500 STORAGE AND DISPLAY ─ SEPARATION

3500.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be stored and displayed for retail sale so they cannot contaminate food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service and single-use articles by:

(a) Separating the poisonous or toxic materials by physically separating or partitioning by a wall or structure; P and

(b) Locating the poisonous or toxic materials in an area that is not above food, equipment, utensils, linens, and single-service or single-use articles. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A37 MOBILE STRUCTURES & TEMPORARY STANDS

25-A DCMR § 3700 LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ─ PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION

3700.1 No person shall operate as a food vendor without a license issued by the Mayor in accordance with § 4300.1. P

3700.2 No person shall operate as a food vendor with an expired license. Pf

3700.3 No person shall operate as a food vendor with a suspended license. Pf

3700.4 No person shall operate as a food vendor without a Food Protection Manager Certificate and a Department of Health-issued (DOH-Issued) Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card in accordance with § 203. P

3700.5 No person shall operate a mobile food unit without a valid Health Inspection Certificate issued by the Department in accordance with § 3706.1. P

3700.6 No person shall possess, prepare or vend any food requiring further processing from its original state aboard a mobile food unit without meeting the requirements of § 3700.4 and § 3701 and this Code. P

3700.7 No person shall operate a depot, commissary or service support facility that services a mobile food unit without a valid license to operate issued by the Mayor in accordance with § 4300.1. P

3700.8 No person shall operate as a food vendor, or operate a depot, commissary, or service support facility that services a mobile food unit with a license that has been suspended for violations of this Code. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3701 PRE-OPERATIONAL ASSESSMENTS ─ TYPES OF FOOD AND FOOD SAFETY ANALYSES

3701.1 No vendor shall possess, prepare, sale, offer for sale, or give away any food requiring further processing from its original state without the submission of a HACCP Plan, Parasite Destruction Letter, or Risk Control Plan depending on the food and process as requested by the Department. P

3701.2 A vendor shall submit to the Department an original and one (1) copy of a “Hazard Analysis Work Sheet” and a “HACCP Plan” on forms provided by the Department. P

3701.3 A vendor shall submit to the Department a written HACCP Plan in accordance with this chapter, Chapter 42, and all applicable provisions of this subtitle, including but not limited to the following analyses: P

(a) An assessment of any hazard in the flow of food;

(b) The identity of any critical control point where food is subject to such hazard;

(c) The establishment of standards and procedures of each critical control point;

(d) The establishment of a monitoring system for all critical control points;

(e) The establishment of corrective actions if such standards, procedures, or requirements are breached; and

(f) The establishment of a recordkeeping system to document every hazard, procedure, control point, and corrective action.

3701.4 HACCP Plans shall be reviewed every six (6) months in conjunction with the issuance of a vendor’s Health Inspection Certificate. P

3701.5 Changes shall not be made to a HACCP Plan’s operating procedures, menu, ingredients or other products, and shall not be implemented without the Department’s approval. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3702 ADDITIONAL PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION ─ PROPANE PERMIT

3702.1 All food vendors who use propane shall: P

(a) Obtain a valid propane permit issued by the Fire Prevention Division of the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department and post the permit on the vehicle at all times;

(b) Obtain direct written approval from the Fire Marshall of the District of Columbia to use propane cylinders in excess of sixty (60) pounds;

(c) Secure all propane compartments; and

(d) Post “No Smoking – Propane Gas" signs on the vehicle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3703 ADDITIONAL PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION ─ HOOD SUPPRESSION SYSTEM, APPROVAL

3703.1 No food vendor shall use a deep fryer or other cooking equipment that requires a hood suppression system, except with the written approval from the Fire Prevention Division District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3704 ADDITIONAL PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION ─ MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION

3704.1 No food vendor shall operate a mobile food unit without a current motor vehicle registration that is conspicuously displayed on the mobile food unit in accordance with § 3713.1(h). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3705 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ LICENSE, PERIOD FOR SUBMISSION

3705.1 To qualify for a food vending license, an applicant shall: P

(a) Submit an application for a food vending license on a form provided by the Department as set out in the Department's Mobile Food Vending Information Packet at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a food establishment or the expiration date of the current license for an existing facility;

(b) Own a National Science Foundation (NSF) approved or its equivalent mobile food unit that has a valid Motor Vehicle Registration in accordance with §§ 3704.1, and 3713.1(h);

(c) Possess a Food Protection Manager Certificate and a Department-issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card as specified in §§ 200.3, 200.4, 203.2, 203.3, and 3713.1(e) and (f);

(d) Possess a Health Inspection Certificate, required license, and applicable permit as specified in §§ 3713.1(a), (b), and (g);

(e) Possess a Depot Letter (service agreement) with a licensed and inspected depot, commissary, or service support facility that operates in compliance with §§ 3708, 3709, 3710, 3711, and § 3714.1. A copy of the facility’s current license and inspection report shall be presented upon request;

(f) The licensee shall maintain a ledger that includes current information on the name, license number, and address of each food vendor and supplier doing business with the vendor in accordance with § 3714.3; and

(g) Pay the applicable licensing fees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3706 APPLICATION APPROVAL ─ HEALTH INSPECTION CERTIFICATE, ISSUANCE

3706.1 The Department shall review an application for the issuance of a Health Inspection Certificate. The Department shall make a determination to approve or disapprove the application, including menus, plans, or standards approved or imposed as part of the issuance of the Health Inspection Certificate after conducting a thorough inspection of: P

(a) The mobile food unit, including but not limited to vending stands, carts, roadway vehicles, or other mobile food units in accordance with all applicable provisions of this Code;

(b) The storage facility, including but not limited to depots, commissaries, or service support facilities in accordance with § 4402 and all applicable provisions of this Code;

(c) Equipment and utensils in accordance with all applicable provisions of this Code;

(d) Records relating to source of food, including but not limited to food purchased, received, or used on the mobile food unit, in accordance with § 4402.1(c);

(e) The preparation and holding procedures for the food; and

(f) A determination that the HACCP Plan will prevent the growth of disease causing organisms or germs.

3706.2 Health Inspection Certificates are valid for six (6) months or until the next inspection, whichever is earlier. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3707 FOOD VENDORS ─ PREOPERATIONAL INSPECTIONS, FREQUENCY

3707.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify that the mobile food unit is constructed and equipped in compliance with this chapter. P

3707.2 The Department shall inspect a mobile food unit once every six (6) months, or more frequently pursuant to complaints. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3708 DEPOT, COMMISSARY, OR SERVICE SUPPORT FACILITY ─ FOOD SUPPLIES, PREPARATION, PROTECTION, AND RESTRICTIONS

3708.1 Food shall be prepared and protected in a depot, commissary, or service support facility in accordance with this Code. P

3708.2 Food shall be obtained from approved sources, shall be in sound condition, and be safe for human consumption. Foods that do not comply with this Code shall not be served to the public. P

3708.3 Packaged foods shall meet the requirements in Chapters 7 and 11.

3708.4 Food, utensils and equipment shall be stored in a manner to avoid contamination.

3708.5 Potentially hazardous foods shall not be: P

(a) Cooled and reheated prior to service; P or

(b) Subjected to hot holding for more than two (2) hours. P

3708.6 All food temperature requirements of this Code shall be met. Hot and cold holding equipment shall be provided to maintain potentially hazardous foods at temperatures required in Chapters 7 through 13. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3709 FOOD VENDORS, DEPOT, COMMISSARY, OR SERVICE SUPPORT FACILITY ─ PERSONAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE

3709.1 Food vendors and food depot, commissary, or service support facilities shall comply with the employee health and hygiene requirements in Chapters 3 and 4. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3710 DEPOT, COMMISSARY, OR SERVICE SUPPORT FACILITY ─ EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

3710.1 All equipment and utensils shall be constructed of safe materials and maintained in good repair.

3710.2 All food contact surfaces, counters, sinks, and work surfaces in the establishment shall be smooth, non-absorbent, and easily cleanable.

3710.3 Food-contact surfaces of equipment, tableware, and utensils shall be cleaned and sanitized prior to food preparation for the public and after each use in accordance with this Code.

3710.4 For manual cleaning and sanitizing of cooking equipment, utensils, and tableware, three (3) compartment sinks shall be provided and used, or a two (2) compartment sink may be used when an approved detergent sanitizer is used in accordance with §§ 1601 and 1813.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3711 DEPOT, COMMISSARY, OR SERVICE SUPPORT FACILITY ─ PHYSICAL FACILITIES, CONTROL OF REFUSE AND PESTS, AND PROHIBITION OF ANIMALS

3711.1 Food service preparation and storage areas shall be constructed and maintained to prevent the entry of pests and other vermin in accordance with §§ 3210, 3211, and 3213.P

3711.2 Impervious receptacles shall be provided for storage of garbage and refuse in accordance with Chapter 27. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3712 CONDITIONS OF LICENSE RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FOOD VENDOR

3712.1 All food vendors shall comply with § 700 and all applicable provisions of this Code, including but not limited to the following: P

(a) Section 200, Responsibility ─ Assignment & Qualification of Person in Charge; P

(b) Section 201, Knowledge ─ Person in Charge; P

(c) Section 202, Duties ─ Person in Charge;

(d) Section 203, Certification and District-Issued ID Requirements ─ Food Protection Manager, Person in Charge;

(e) Section 3706, Department-issued Health Inspection Certificate, including any plans or standards approved or imposed as part of the issuance of the Health Inspection Certificate;

(f) Chapter 3, Food Employee/Applicant Health;

(g) Chapter 4, Personal Cleanliness of Food Employees;

(h) Section 712, Specifications for Receiving ─ Ice; P

(i) Section 807, Preventing Contamination from Ice Used as Exterior Coolant ─ Prohibited as an Ingredient;

(j) Section 809, Preventing Contamination from Equipment and Utensils ─ Food Contact with Equipment and Utensils; P

(k) Section 810, Preventing Contamination from Utensils ─ In-Use Utensils, Between-Use Storage;

(l) Section 812, Preventing Contamination from Wiping Cloths ─ Use Limitation;

(m) Section 816, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage;

(n) Section 817, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage, Prohibited Areas;

(o) Section 818, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Vended Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Original Container;

(p) Section 819, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Preparation;

(q) Section 821, Preventing Contamination by Consumers ─ Condiments, Protection;

(r) Section 906, Reheating ─ For Hot Holding; P

(s) Section 1005, Temperature and Time Control ─ Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food) Hot and Cold Holding; P

(t) Section 1009, Time as a Public Health Control; P

(u) Section 1536, Acceptability ─ Food Equipment, Certification and Classification;

(v) Subsection 4402.1, Access to Premises and Records;

(w) Sections 4302 through 4304, Application Procedure – Form of Submission, Qualifications and Responsibilities of Applicants, and Contents of the Application; and

(x) Chapter 34, Operational Supplies and Applications of Poisonous or Toxic Materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3713 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FOOD VENDOR, DISPLAY OF REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

3713.1 A food vendor shall conspicuously display on the vending vehicle, vending cart, or vending stand, a valid: P

(a) Food Vending Business License;

(b) Vending Site Permit;

(c) Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA)-Issued Vendor Identification Card;

(d) Propane permit issued by the Fire Prevention Division of the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, for use of propane;

(e) Food Protection Manager Certificate;

(f) Department-Issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card;

(g) Health Inspection Certificate; and

(h) Motor Vehicle Registration.

3713.2 The items enumerated in § 3713.1 shall be considered to be properly displayed when they are firmly attached to the vending vehicle or stand and made clearly visible to the public.

3713.3 A food vendor or employee of a food vendor shall surrender all applicable licenses, permits, and certificates for examination upon demand by any authorized representative of the Department.

3713.4 No person shall alter, mutilate, forge, or illegally display any license, permit, or other certification issued by the Mayor pursuant to this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3714 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF DEPOT, COMMISSARY OR SERVICE SUPPORT FACILITY

3714.1 A depot, commissary, or service support facility servicing mobile food units with Class A Vending Business Licenses shall provide the following services to a vendor:

(a) Storage of the mobile food unit;

(b) Food preparation;

(c) Basic maintenance and cleaning; and

(d) Proper disposal of trash and food waste.

3714.2 Such a facility shall comply with all applicable provisions of this Code, including but not limited to:

(a) Section 712, Specifications for Receiving ─ Ice; P

(b) Section 817, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage, Prohibited Areas;

(c) Chapter 4, Personal Cleanliness of Food Employees; and

(d) Chapter 34, Operational Supplies and Applications of Poisonous or Toxic Materials.

3714.3 The operator of a depot, commissary or service support facility that services a mobile food unit shall maintain a ledger that includes current information on the name, license number, and address of each food vendor and supplier doing business with the vendor. This ledger shall be made available during regular business hours for inspection by any duly authorized representative of the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A38 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS IN BED & BREAKFAST OPERATIONS

25-A DCMR § 3800 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS, CODE APPLICABILITY

3800.1 No person shall operate a residential kitchen in a bed and breakfast operation without a valid license issued by the Mayor in accordance with § 4300.1. P

3800.2 No person shall operate a residential kitchen in a bed and breakfast operation without a Food Protection Manager Certificate and a Department-Issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card in accordance with § 203. P

3800.3 No person shall operate a residential kitchen in a bed and breakfast operation with a license that has been suspended for violations of this Code. P

3800.4 Residential kitchens in bed and breakfast operations where the available guest bedrooms do not exceed (3) and the number of guests served does not exceed nine (9) are exempt from this Code, except that they must inform the consumer by statements contained in published advertisements, mailed brochures, and placards posted at the registration area that the food is prepared in a kitchen that is not regulated and inspected by the Department.

3800.5 Residential kitchens in bed and breakfast operations where the available guest bedrooms are between four (4) and ten (10) and the number of guests served does not exceed eighteen (18) shall:

(a) Obtain a food establishment license;

(b) Comply with the requirements of this chapter as well as Chapters 41 through 49;

(c) Be exempt from Chapter 42, “Plan Submission and Approval” and only submit an intended menu with the application for a food establishment license; and

(d) Comply with all other District laws and regulations as to construction and renovations.

3800.6 Residential kitchens in bed and breakfast operations where the available guest bedrooms are ten (10) or more shall comply with all provisions of this Code, and shall obtain a food establishment license.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3801 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ FOOD SUPPLIES, PREPARATION, PROTECTION, AND RESTRICTIONS

3801.1 Food shall be prepared and protected in bed and breakfast operations in accordance with § 3800.

3801.2 Food shall be obtained from approved sources, shall be in sound condition, and shall be safe for human consumption. Foods that do not comply with this Code shall not be served to the public and shall be discarded.

3801.3 Food intended for public consumption shall either be stored separately or labeled so as to distinguish it from food intended for private use. A separate shelf or portion of a shelf within a refrigerator shall be an acceptable form of separate storage. Packaged foods shall meet the requirements in Chapters 7 and 11.

3801.4 Food, utensils, and equipment shall be stored in a manner to avoid contamination.

3801.5 Potentially hazardous foods shall not be:

(a) Cooled and reheated prior to service;

(b) Subjected to hot holding for more than two (2) hours; or

(c) Served as leftovers.

3801.6 All food temperature requirements of this Code shall be met. Hot and cold holding equipment shall be provided to maintain potentially hazardous foods at temperatures required in Chapters 7 through 13.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3802 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ PERSONAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE

3802.1 Food employees shall conform to employee health and hygiene requirements in Chapters 3 and 4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3803 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ HANDWASHING AND TOILET ROOM FACILITIES

3803.1 A soap dispenser and disposable towels for use in handwashing shall be provided at the kitchen sink. This sink shall not be used for handwashing after toilet use but may be used for food preparation and warewashing provided it is cleaned and sanitized prior to and between uses.

3803.2 A toilet room shall be available for use by food employees. Toilet rooms opening to the kitchen or dining area shall have adequate ventilation. Ventilation may be provided by window(s) or by mechanical means. A soap dispenser and disposable towels shall be provided for handwashing in toilet rooms used by food employees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3804 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

3804.1 All equipment and utensils shall be constructed of safe materials and maintained in good repair.

3804.2 All food contact surfaces, counters, sinks, and work surfaces in the establishment shall be smooth, non-absorbent, and easily cleanable.

3804.3 Food-contact surfaces of equipment, tableware, and utensils shall be cleaned and sanitized prior to food preparation for the public and after each use in accordance with this Code.

3804.4 For manual cleaning and sanitizing of cooking equipment, utensils and tableware, three (3) compartment sinks shall be provided and used, or a two (2) compartment sink may be used if single service tableware is provided, or when an approved detergent sanitizer is used in accordance with §§ 1601 and 1813.

3804.5 A domestic or home-style dishwasher may be used, provided the following performance criteria are met:

(a) The dishwasher effectively removes physical soil from all surfaces of dishes, equipment, and utensils;

(b) On a daily basis, a maximum registering thermometer or a heat thermal label determines that the dishwasher’s internal temperature meets the requirements as specified in Chapter 18. Records of this testing shall be kept on file for thirty (30) days;

(c) The dishwasher is installed and operated according to manufacturer’s instructions for the highest level of sanitization possible when sanitizing utensils and tableware. A copy of the instructions must be available on the premises at all times;

(d) There is sufficient area or facilities such as portable dish tubs and drain boards for the proper handling of soiled utensils prior to washing and of cleaned utensils after sanitization; and

(e) Equipment, utensils and tableware shall be air-dried.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3805 RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS ─ PHYSICAL FACILITIES

3805.1 Food service preparation and storage areas shall be constructed and maintained to prevent the entry of pests and other vermin in accordance with Chapter 32.

3805.2 Pets may be present on the premises, but shall be kept out of food preparation and dining areas during food preparation and service to the public.

3805.3 Laundry facilities may be present in the kitchen, but shall not be used during food preparation and service to the public.

3805.4 Cooking facilities in the kitchen shall not be available to guests.

3805.5 Impervious receptacles shall be provided for storage of garbage and refuse in accordance with Chapter 27.

3805.6 Hot and cold water under pressure shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 23.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3806 CONDITIONS OF LICENSE RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF LICENSEES OF RESIDENTIAL KITCHENS IN BED & BREAKFAST OPERATIONS

3806.1 Licensees of residential kitchens in bed & breakfast operations shall comply with § 700 and all applicable provisions of this Code, including but not limited to the following:

(a) Section 200, Responsibility ─ Assignment & Qualification of Person in Charge; P

(b) Section 201, Knowledge ─ Person in Charge; P

(c) Section 202, Duties ─ Person in Charge;

(d) Section 203, Certification and District-Issued ID Requirements ─ Food Protection Manager, Person in Charge;

(e) Section 3706, Department-issued Health Inspection Certificate, including any plans or standards approved or imposed as part of the issuance of the Health Inspection Certificate;

(f) Chapter 3, Food Employee/Applicant Health;

(g) Chapter 4, Personal Cleanliness of Food Employees;

(h) Section 712, Specifications for Receiving ─ Ice; P

(i) Section 807, Preventing Contamination from Ice Used as Exterior Coolant ─ Prohibited as an Ingredient;

(j) Section 809, Preventing Contamination from Equipment and Utensils ─ Food Contact with Equipment and Utensils; P

(k) Section 810, Preventing Contamination from Utensils ─ In-Use Utensils, Between-Use Storage;

(l) Section 812, Preventing Contamination from Wiping Cloths ─ Use Limitation;

(m) Section 816, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage;

(n) Section 817, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage, Prohibited Areas;

(o) Section 818, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Vended Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Original Container;

(p) Section 819, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Preparation;

(q) Section 821, Preventing Contamination by Consumers ─ Condiments, Protection;

(r) Section 906, Reheating ─ For Hot Holding; P

(s) Section 1005, Temperature and Time Control ─ Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food) Hot and Cold Holding; P

(t) Section 1009, Time as a Public Health Control; P

(u) Section 1536, Acceptability ─ Food Equipment, Certification and Classification;

(v) Section 4402, Access to premises and records;

(w) Sections 4302 through 4304, Application Procedure – Form of Submission, Qualifications and Responsibilities of Applicants, and Contents of the Application; and

(x) Chapter 34, Operational Supplies and Applications of Poisonous or Toxic Materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A39 CATERERS

25-A DCMR § 3900 CATERERS ─ LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS, PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION

3900.1 No person shall operate as a caterer without a license issued by the Mayor in accordance with § 4300.1. P

3900.2 No person shall operate as a caterer with an expired license. Pf

3900.3 No person shall operate as a caterer with a license that has been suspended for violating of this Code. P

3900.4 No person shall operate as a caterer without a Food Protection Manager Certificate and a Department-Issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card in accordance with § 203. P

3900.5 An applicant for a license as a caterer shall provide the Department with information on the:

(a) Sources of the food as specified in Chapter 7;

(b) Type and volume of food to be sold or otherwise provided;

(c) Transport containers capable of maintaining proper temperatures in accordance with Chapters 7 through 13 that will be used in transporting and holding potentially hazardous food;

(d) A current copy of the applicant’s catering license;

(e) A copy of the applicant’s Food Protection Manager Certification and Department-Issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card in accordance with § 203; and

(f) A current inspection report of the licensed food establishment used as the applicant’s base of operation as specified in § 3901.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3901 CATERERS ─ BASE OF OPERATION

3901.1 Each caterer shall have as its base of operations a currently licensed and inspected food establishment that shall comply with provisions of this Code, except that a facility holding a license as a residential kitchen shall not serve as the base of operation for a caterer. P

3901.2 A caterer whose base of operation is a food establishment located outside the District shall provide the Department with current copies of the food establishment’s license and inspection report prior to serving meals in the District.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3902 CATERERS ─ NOTIFICATION TO THE DEPARTMENT

3902.1 Each caterer shall give written notice to the Department on a form that the Department will provide either prior to or within seventy-two (72) hours after serving food other than from its own food establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 3903 CONDITIONS OF LICENSE RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF CATERERS

3903.1 All caterers shall comply with § 700 and all applicable provisions of this Code, including but not limited to the following:

(a) Section 200, Responsibility ─ Assignment & Qualification of Person in Charge; P

(b) Section 201, Knowledge ─ Person in Charge; P

(c) Section 202, Duties ─ Person in Charge;

(d) Section 203, Certification and District-Issued ID Requirements ─ Food Protection Manager, Person in Charge;

(e) Section 3706, Department-issued Health Inspection Certificate, including any plans or standards approved or imposed as part of the issuance of the Health Inspection Certificate;

(f) Chapter 3, Food Employee/Applicant Health;

(g) Chapter 4, Personal Cleanliness of Food Employees;

(h) Section 712, Specifications for Receiving ─ Ice; P

(i) Section 807, Preventing Contamination from Ice Used as Exterior Coolant ─ Prohibited as an Ingredient;

(j) Section 809, Preventing Contamination from Equipment and Utensils ─ Food Contact with Equipment and Utensils; P

(k) Section 810, Preventing Contamination from Utensils ─ In-Use Utensils, Between-Use Storage;

(l) Section 812, Preventing Contamination from Wiping Cloths ─ Use Limitation;

(m) Section 816, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage;

(n) Section 817, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Storage, Prohibited Areas;

(o) Section 818, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Vended Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food), Original Container;

(p) Section 819, Preventing Contamination from the Premises ─ Food Preparation;

(q) Section 821, Preventing Contamination by Consumers ─ Condiments, Protection;

(r) Section 906, Reheating ─ For Hot Holding; P

(s) Section 1005, Temperature and Time Control ─ Potentially Hazardous Food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food) Hot and Cold Holding; P

(t) Section 1009, Time as a Public Health Control; P

(u) Section 1536, Acceptability ─ Food Equipment, Certification and Classification;

(v) Section 4402, Access to premises and records;

(w) Sections 4302 – 4304, Application Procedure – Form of Submission, Qualifications and Responsibilities of Applicants, and Contents of the Application; and

(x) Chapter 34, Operational Supplies and Applications of Poisonous or Toxic Materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A40 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS

25-A DCMR § 4000 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS ─ CODE APPLICABILITY

4000.1 Catered establishments that receive food from a licensed caterer or licensed food establishment shall:

(a) Obtain a valid Food Establishment License as specified in § 4300.1, which shall exhibit proper notations as specified in §§ 4002 through and 4004; and

(b) Post a valid Certificate of Occupancy, a current license, and a current inspection report in a location within the food establishment that is conspicuous to consumers as specified in §§ 4306.3 and 4310.2;

4000.2 Catered establishments shall maintain a current copy of its contract with the licensed caterer or licensed food establishment on the premises for review by the Department, including but not limited to the following documentation: P

(a) The name, address, and hours of operation of the licensed caterer or licensed food establishment; P

(b) Current copies of the caterer’s license or food establishment’s license and inspection reports issued by the Mayor as specified in § 4300.1; P

(c) Current copies of the caterer’s license or food establishment’s license, and inspection reports, issued to the caterer or food establishment by the responsible licensing agency of another state or municipality where the caterer or food establishment is incorporated; P

(d) Copies of the caterer’s or food establishment’s food protection manager certification recognized by the Department as specified in § 203.1; P

(e) Copies of current District-issued Certified Food Managers Identification Cards as specified in § 203.3 P ; and

(f) Copies of the catered establishments’ contract with the licensed caterer or licensed food establishment shall also document:

(1) Number of individuals to be served;

(2) Food sources as specified in Chapter 7;

(3) Food safety assurance protocols;

(4) Menu production and serving schedules;

(5) Equipment to be used, including but not limited to utensils, linens, and temperature measuring devices in accordance with Chapters 7 through 22;

(6) Food transport containers capable of maintaining proper temperatures in accordance with Chapters 7 through 13 that will be used in transporting and holding potentially hazardous food;

(7) Delivery and routing information; and

(8) Copies of the caterer’s or food establishment’s District-licensed Pesticide Operator contract, District-licensed trash or solid waste contract, and District-licensed sewage or liquid waste transport contract, where applicable. P

4000.3 Catered establishments shall comply with the requirements of this chapter and Chapters 41 through 49, and shall be exempt from Chapter 42.

4000.4 If a catered establishment also prepares and serves potentially hazardous foods (time/ temperature control for safety food) on the premises, it shall comply with all applicable provisions of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4001 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS ─ STORAGE OF POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/ TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD)

4001.1 Catered establishments shall provide an approved refrigerator where potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) shall be stored. The food shall not remain stored in the transport containers until served. Potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) temporarily kept in the transport containers shall be maintained at proper temperatures in accordance with Chapters 7 through 13. P

4001.2 If milk is served, it shall be served in original individual commercially filled containers received from the distributor, from an approved bulk milk dispenser, or poured from a commercially filled container of not more than one gallon (1 gal.) capacity which, when not in use, shall be immediately refrigerated. P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4002 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS ─ RECEIPT OF TRANSPORTED INDIVIDUALLY PORTIONED SERVINGS

4002.1 When a catered establishment receives food that is prepared elsewhere and is transported hot or cold in individually portioned and protected servings, it shall have on the premises the following: P

(a) A valid food establishment license with the notation “Catered Food Establishment – Receiving Transported Individually Portioned Servings, Serving Only;”

(b) A certified food protection manager on site during periods in which food is received and served;

(c) A copy of the contract with the caterer who is providing the food;

(d) A hand sink with running water or chemically treated towelettes;

(e) A mop sink located within the establishment;

(f) Approved food transport containers for hot or cold foods; and

(g) A thermometer and log for recording the temperatures of food upon receipt.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4003 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS ─ RECEIPT OF HOT OR COLD TRANSPORTED READY-TO-SERVE FOODS IN BULK CONTAINERS

4003.1 When a catered establishment receives and distributes hot or cold food that is prepared elsewhere and transported ready-to-serve in bulk containers, it shall have on the premises following: P

(a) A valid food establishment license with the notation “Catered Food Establishment –Receiving Hot or Cold Transported Ready-to-Serve Foods in Bulk Containers, Serving Only;”

(b) A certified food protection manager on site during periods in which food is received and served;

(c) A copy of the contract with the caterer who is providing the food;

(d) A hand sink with hot and cold or tempered running water;

(e) A mop sink located within the establishment;

(f) A single compartment general-purpose sink;

(g) A formica work surface or an equivalently durable table or counter surface;

(h) Hot water generation and distribution systems sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the establishment pursuant to § 2305;

(i) Approved food transport containers for hot or cold foods; and

(j) A thermometer and log for recording the temperatures of food upon receipt.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4004 CATERED ESTABLISHMENTS ─ REHEATING TRANSPORTED COLD FOODS RECEIVED IN BULK CONTAINERS

4004.1 When a catered establishment reheats food that is prepared elsewhere and is transported cold in bulk containers, it shall have on the premises the following: P

(a) A valid food establishment license with the notation “Catered Food Establishment – Reheating Transported Cold Foods Received in Bulk Containers, Serving Only;”

(b) A certified food protection manager on site during periods in which food is received, reheated, and served;

(c) A copy of the contract with the caterer who is providing the food;

(d) A hand sink with hot and cold or tempered running water;

(e) A mop sink located within the establishment;

(f) A single compartment general-purpose sink;

(g) A formica work surface or equivalently durable table or counter surface;

(h) Hot water generation and distribution systems sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the establishment pursuant to § 2305;

(i) Approved food transport containers for hot or cold foods;

(j) An oven or microwave oven; and

(k) A thermometer and log for recording the temperatures of food upon receipt.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A41 CODE APPLICABILITY

25-A DCMR § 4100 USE FOR INTENDED PURPOSE ─ PUBLIC HEALTH PROTECTION

4100.1 The Department shall use this Code to promote the safeguarding of public health and ensure that food is safe, and not adulterated, misbranded, or falsely advertised when offered to the consumer.

4100.2 In enforcing the provisions of this Code, the Department shall assess existing facilities or equipment that were in use before the effective date of this Code based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the facilities or equipment are in good repair and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition;

(b) Whether food-contact surfaces comply with Chapter 14;

(c) Whether the capacities of cooling, heating, and holding equipment are sufficient to comply with § 1600;

(d) Whether existing operating systems, equipment, and fixtures comply with this Code; and

(e) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the operating systems, equipment, fixtures, or refrigeration equipment will be replaced as specified in § 4310.8.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4101 PREVENTING HEALTH HAZARDS ─ PROVISION FOR CONDITIONS NOT ADDRESSED

4101.1 If necessary to protect against public health hazards or nuisances, the Department may impose specific requirements in addition to the requirements contained in this Code that are authorized pursuant to An Act To authorize the Commissioners of the District of Columbia to make regulations to prevent and control the spread of communicable and preventable diseases, approved August 11, 1939 (53 Stat. 1408; D.C. Official Code § 7-131 (2008 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)).

4101.2 The Department shall document the conditions that necessitate the imposition of additional requirements and the underlying public health rationale. The documentation shall be provided to a license applicant or licensee and a copy shall be maintained in the Department's file for the food establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4102 VARIANCES ─ CRITERIA, MODIFICATIONS AND WAIVERS

4102.1 The Department may grant a variance from the provisions of this Code, as provided in § 4102.2.

4102.2 The Department may grant a variance if all of the following conditions are met, except as provided in § 4102.3:

(a) The variance was requested in the manner prescribed by § 4103; Pf

(b) The variance will have no adverse effect on public health, safety, or the environment; Pf

(c) The alternative measures to be taken, if any, are equivalent to or superior to those prescribed by this Code; Pf and

(d) Strict compliance with the provisions of this Code would impose an undue burden on the applicant if the variance were not granted.

4102.3 A variance shall not be granted for or from:

(a) Chapter 3, Food Employee/Applicant Health; Pf

(b) Chapter 4, Personal Cleanliness of Food Employees; Pf

(c) Chapter 5, Hygienic Practices of Employees and Food Employees; Pf

(d) Sections 3210 through 3214, Physical Facilities – Controlling Pests; Removing Dead or Trapped Birds, Insects, Rodents, and Other Pests; Storing Maintenance Tools; Maintaining Premises, Unnecessary Items and Litter; and Prohibiting Animals; Pf

(e) Chapter 33, Certifications, Labeling and Identification of Poisonous or Toxic Materials; Chapter 34, Operational Supplies and Applications of Poisonous or Toxic Materials; and Chapter 35, Stock and Retail Sale of Poisonous or Toxic Materials; Subtitle G, Poisonous or Toxic Materials; Pf and

(f) Chapter 37 Mobile Structures & Temporary Stands; Chapter 38, Residential Kitchens in Bed and Breakfast Operations; Chapter 39, Caterers; Chapter 40, Catered Establishments; and Subtitle H, Special Requirements. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4103 VARIANCES ─ APPLICATION, JUSTIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION

4103.1 A variance shall be requested in writing and be accompanied by the appropriate fee.

4103.2 A request for a variance shall contain the following information, which shall be retained in the Department's file on the food establishment:

(a) The specified provision(s) of this Code from which the variance is requested;

(b) The reasons why the requirements of the provision(s) cannot be met;

(c) Alternative measures that will be taken to ensure a comparable degree of protection to public health, safety, and the environment if a variance is granted;

(d) Whether a HACCP Plan, as specified in § 4202 is involved that includes information specified under § 4205 that is relevant to the variance request;

(e) The length of time for which the variance is requested; and

(f) A statement that the party applying for the variance will agree to comply with the terms of any variance, if one is granted.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4104 VARIANCES ─ ATTACHMENT OF CONDITIONS

4104.1 In granting a variance, the Department may attach conditions that it determines are needed to protect the public health, safety and the environment.

4104.2 If the Department grants a variance as specified in § 4102, or a HACCP Plan is otherwise required as specified in § 4202, the licensee shall:

(a) Comply with the HACCP Plan and procedures submitted and approved as the basis for the variance; P and

(b) Maintain, and provide to the Department upon request, records specified in §§ 4205.1(d) and (e) that demonstrate the following are routinely used:

(1) Procedures for monitoring critical control points; Pf

(2) The actual monitoring of the critical control points; Pf

(3) Verifications of the effectiveness of an operation or process; Pf and

(4) Necessary corrective actions if there is failure at a critical control point. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4105 VARIANCES ─ EFFECT OF ALTERNATIVE MEASURES OR CONDITIONS

4105.1 Alternative measures or conditions described in a variance shall have the force and effect of law.

4105.2 If a licensee violates any alternative measures or conditions described in a variance, the licensee shall be subjected to the enforcement actions and penalties provided in this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4106 VARIANCES ─ NOTIFICATION OF DECISION TO GRANT, DENY, OR CHANGE CONDITIONS

4106.1 The Department shall notify the applicant in writing of its decision to grant or deny the variance.

4106.2 If a variance is granted, the notification shall specify the period of time for which the variance shall be effective and the alternative measures or conditions, if any, the applicant shall meet.

4106.3 A licensee to whom a variance has been issued shall notify the Department in writing within thirty (30) calendar days of a material change in the conditions upon which the variance was granted.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4107 VARIANCES ─ RENEWAL

4107.1 A request for the renewal of a variance shall be submitted to the Department in writing thirty (30) calendar days before its expiration date.

4107.2 Renewal requests shall contain the information specified in § 4103.

4107.3 The Department shall renew a variance if the food establishment continues to satisfy the criteria specified in § 4102 or the conditions set forth in § 4104 and demonstrates compliance with the alternative measures or conditions imposed at the time the original variance was approved.

4107.4 A variance may not be renewed if there has been a material change in the conditions upon which the variance was granted or the licensee failed to comply with the approved variance. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4108 VARIANCES ─ DENIAL, REVOCATION, OR REFUSAL TO RENEW

4108.1 The Department shall notify the applicant in writing of the denial, revocation or refusal to renew a variance if it determines that the criteria in § 4102 or the conditions in § 4104 are not met.

4108.2 The written notification denying, revoking, or refusing to renew a variance shall set out the applicant’s right to a hearing in accordance with Chapter 48.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A42 PLAN SUBMISSION AND APPROVAL

25-A DCMR § 4200 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ WHEN REQUIRED

4200.1 A license applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) The construction of a food establishment; Pf

(b) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a food establishment; Pf or

(c) Major renovation, remodeling, or alteration of a food establishment or a change of type of food establishment or food operation as specified in §§ 4304.3 through 4304.9(f) the Department determines that plans and specifications are necessary to ensure compliance with this Code. Pf

4200.2 Plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee, shall be submitted at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a food establishment.

4200.3 A license applicant or licensee operating at mass gathering or special event food stands and retail food vehicles, mobile facilities, or carts is not required to submit plans and specifications.

4200.4 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of this Code, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or licensee within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

4200.5 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4201 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ CONTENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS

4201.1 Based on the type of operation, type of food preparation, and foods prepared, the plans and specifications for a food establishment, including a food establishment specified in § 4202, shall include the following information to demonstrate conformance with this Code:

(a) Intended menu;

(b) Anticipated volume of food to be stored, prepared, and sold or served;

(c) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, construction materials, and finish schedules;

(d) Proposed equipment types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions, performance capacities, and installation specifications;

(e) A complete set of elevations and drawings for all custom fabricated equipment;

(f) A functional flow plan indicating how food will be handled;

(g) Evidence that standard procedures that ensure compliance with the requirements of this Code are developed or are being developed;

(h) Evidence of an established food safety program such as an employee training manual, and standard operating procedures that ensure compliance with this Code; and

(i) Other information that may be required before the Department may approve proposed plans for the construction, conversion, or modification, including but not limited to approvals by other District agencies.

4201.2 Used equipment shall be equivalent to the standards specified in Chapters 14 through 22 and approved by the Department before use.

4201.3 The Department shall approve the submitted plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of this Code. The Department shall report its findings to the licensee within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the submitted plans are received.

4201.4 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply with the Department's recommendations or this Code, or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4202 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ TYPES OF ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A HACCP PLAN

4202.1 The following activities require a license applicant or licensee to prepare a HACCP plan:

(a) A variance is being sought to serve raw or partially cooked animal foods, except whole muscle intact beef, without meeting the requirements of § 900.3;

(b) A variance is required as specified in § 1010 for specialized processing;

(c) A variance is required as specified in § 1522.2 for operating and maintaining molluscan shellfish tanks;

(d) A variance is required as specified in § 1011 for reduced oxygen packaging;

(e) The Department determines that a food preparation or processing method requires a variance based on a plan submitted as specified in § 4201, or an inspectional finding, or a variance request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4203 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ WHEN MUST A HACCP PLAN BE SUBMITTED

4203.1 A license applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department for approval a properly prepared HACCP Plan as specified in § 4205 and the relevant provisions of this Code:

(a) At the time of the license application and plan review, if a HACCP is required as specified by law; or

(b) At the time of the license application and plan review, if the Department determines that a HACCP Plan is required as specified in §§ 900.3(b), 1522.2, or 4202.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4204 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ COMPLIANCE WITH HACCP PLAN

4204.1 Before engaging in an activity that requires a HACCP Plan, a license applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department for approval a properly prepared HACCP Plan as specified in § 4205 and the relevant provisions of this Code if:

(a) Submission is required according to law;

(b) A variance is required as specified in §§ 900.3, 1010, or 1522.2;

(c) The Department determines that a food preparation or processing method requires a variance based on a plan submittal specified in § 4201, an inspectional finding, or a variance request.

4204.2 A license applicant or licensee shall have properly prepared HACCP Plan as specified in § 1011.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4205 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS ─ CONTENTS OF A HACCP PLAN

4205.1 For a food establishment that is required in §§ 4202 and 4203 to have a HACCP Plan, the plan and specifications shall indicate:

(a) A categorization of the types of potentially hazardous foods (time/ temperature control for safety foods) that are specified in the menu including, but not limited to, soups and sauces, salads, and bulk, solid foods such as meat roasts or other foods that are specified by the Department; Pf

(b) A flow diagram by specific food or category type identifying critical control points and providing information on the following:

(1) Ingredients, materials, and equipment used in the preparation of that food; Pf and

(2) Formulations or recipes that delineate methods and procedural control measures that address the food safety concerns involved; Pf

(c) A food employee and supervisory training plan that addresses food safety concerns involved; Pf

(d) A statement of standard operating procedures for the plan under consideration, including clearly identifying:

(1) Each critical control point; Pf

(2) The critical limits for each critical control point; Pf

(3) The method and frequency for monitoring and controlling each critical control point by the food employee designated by the person in charge; Pf

(4) The method and frequency for the person in charge to routinely verify that the food employee is following standard operating procedures and monitoring critical control points; Pf

(5) Actions to be taken by the person in charge if the critical limits for each critical control point are not met; Pf and

(6) Records to be maintained by the person in charge to demonstrate that the HACCP Plan is properly operated and managed; Pf and

(e) Additional scientific data or other information, as required by the Department, supporting the determination that food safety is not compromised by the proposal. Pf

4205.2 For a food establishment that is required in §§ 4202.1(e) and 4203 to have a HACCP plan, the plan must be prepared as specified under § 1011 as indicated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4206 CONFIDENTIALITY ─ TRADE SECRETS

4206.1 The Department shall treat as confidential information that meets the criteria specified in law for a trade secret and is contained in the plans and specifications submitted as specified in §§ 4201 and 4205.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4207 CONSTRUCTION, INSPECTION AND APPROVAL ─ PRE- OPERATIONAL INSPECTIONS

4207.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify that the food establishment is constructed and equipped in accordance with the approved plans and approved modifications of those plans, has established standard operating procedures as specified in § 4201.1(g), and is in compliance with the law and this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A43 LICENSE TO OPERATE

25-A DCMR § 4300 LICENSE REQUIREMENT ─ PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION

4300.1 No person shall operate a food establishment without a valid license to operate issued by the Mayor. Pf

4300.2 No person shall operate a food establishment with an expired license. Pf

4300.3 No person shall operate a food establishment with a suspended license. Pf

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4301 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ PERIOD FOR SUBMISSION

4301.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a food establishment or the expiration date of the current license for an existing facility.

4301.2 Licenses shall cover one (1) or two (2) year periods as provided by District law.

4301.3 Fees shall be prorated for licenses issued after the beginning of the license period.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4302 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ FORM OF SUBMISSION

4302.1 An applicant shall submit a written application for a license on a form the Department will provide.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4303 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF APPLICANTS

4303.1 To qualify for a license, an applicant shall:

(a) Be an owner of the food establishment or an officer of the legal ownership;

(b) Comply with §§ 4302 through 4304 and all other requirements of this Code;

(c) Agree to allow access to the food establishment and to provide required information, as specified in § 4402; and

(d) Pay the applicable licensing fees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4304 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION

4304.1 An application shall include the name, birth date, mailing address, telephone number, and signature of the person applying for the license and the name, mailing address, and location of the food establishment.

4304.2 An application shall include information specifying whether an association, corporation, individual, partnership, or other legal entity owns the food establishment.

4304.3 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment is mobile or stationary and temporary or permanent.

4304.4 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment prepares, offers for sale, or serves potentially hazardous food:

(a) Only to order upon a consumer's request;

(b) In advance in quantities based on projected consumer demand and discards food that is not sold or served at an approved frequency; or

(c) Using time as the public health control as specified in § 1009.

4304.5 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment prepares potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) in advance using a food preparation method that involves two (2) or more steps which may include combining potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food) ingredients, cooking, cooling, reheating, hot or cold holding, freezing, or thawing.

4304.6 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment prepares food as specified in § 4304.5 for delivery to and consumption at a location off the premises of the food establishment where it is prepared.

4304.7 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment prepares food under § 4304.5 for service to a highly susceptible population.

4304.8 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment prepares only food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food).

4304.9 An application shall include a statement specifying whether the food establishment does not prepare, but offers for sale only prepackaged food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety food).

4304.10 An application shall include the name, title, address, and telephone number of the person directly responsible for the food establishment.

4304.11 An application shall include the name, title, address, and telephone number of the person who functions as the immediate supervisor of the person specified in § 4304.10 such as the zone, district, or regional supervisor.

4304.12 An application shall include the names, titles, and addresses of:

(a) The persons comprising the legal ownership as specified in § 4304.2 including the owners and officers; and

(b) The local resident agent if one is required based on the type of legal ownership.

4304.13 An application shall include a statement signed by the applicant that attests to the accuracy of the information provided in the application, and affirms that the applicant will:

(a) Comply with this Code; and

(b) Allow the Department access to the establishment as specified in § 4402 and to the records specified in §§ 717 and 2416, and § 4205.1(d)(6).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4305 ISSUANCE ─ NEW, CONVERTED, OR REMODELED ESTABLISHMENTS

4305.1 For food establishments that are required to submit plans as specified in § 4200, the Department shall issue a license to the applicant after:

(a) A properly completed application is submitted;

(b) The required fee is submitted;

(c) The required plans, specifications, and information are reviewed and approved; and

(d) A preoperational inspection as specified in § 4207 shows that the establishment is built or remodeled in accordance with the approved plans and specifications and that the establishment is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4306 ISSUANCE REQUIREMENT ─ NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTING

4306.1 The food establishment shall provide notice of opening to the Department at least fourteen (14) calendar days before the opening date.

4306.2 A food establishment shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least fourteen (14) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

4306.3 All licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, and current inspection reports shall be conspicuously posted within the food establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4307 ISSUANCE ─ EXISTING ESTABLISHMENTS, LICENSE RENEWAL, AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

4307.1 The Department may renew a license for an existing food establishment or may issue a license to a new owner of an existing food establishment after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed, and approved, the fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the establishment is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4308 ISSUANCE ─ DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE, NOTICE

4308.1 If an application for a license to operate is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for the license denial;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s right to appeal and the process and time frames for appeal as prescribed in Chapter 48.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4309 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

4309.1 The Department shall notify each license applicant how to obtain a copy of this Code so that the license applicant is aware of compliance requirements and the conditions of license retention as specified in § 4310.

4309.2 Failure to provide the information specified in § 4309.1 shall not prevent the Department from taking authorized action or seeking remedies if the licensee fails to comply with this Code or an order, warning, or directive from the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4310 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE

4310.1 Upon acceptance of the license issued by the Department, the licensee, in order to retain the license, shall comply with §§ 4310.2 through 4310.12.

4310.2 The licensee shall post a current license, valid Certificate of Occupancy, and a current inspection reports in a location within the food establishment that is conspicuous to consumers as specified in § 4306.3.

4310.3 The licensee shall comply with the provisions of this Code including the conditions of a granted variance as specified in § 4105 and approved plans as specified in § 4201.

4310.4 If a food establishment is required in § 4104 to operate under a HACCP Plan, the licensee shall comply with the plan as specified in § 4203.

4310.5 The licensee shall immediately contact the Department to report an illness of a food employee or conditional employee as specified in § 301.

4310.6 The licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard may exist as specified in § 4408.

4310.7 The licensee shall allow representatives of the Department access to the food establishment as specified in § 4402.

4310.8 The licensee shall replace existing operating systems, equipment, or fixtures approved for use before the effective date of this Code as specified in § 4100, with facilities and equipment that comply with this Code, except as specified in § 4310.9 if:

(a) The Department directs the replacement of existing operating systems, equipment, or fixtures because the operating systems, equipment, or fixtures constitute a public health hazard or nuisance or no longer comply with the criteria upon which the operating systems, equipment, or fixtures were accepted;

(b) The Department directs the replacement of the operating systems, equipment, or fixtures when there is a change of ownership; or

(c) The licensee replaces the operating systems, equipment, or fixtures in the normal course of operation.

4310.9 The licensee shall comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, notices, orders, warnings, and other directives issued by the Department in regard to the licensee's food establishment or in response to community emergencies.

4310.10 The licensee shall accept notices issued and served by the Department according to law.

4310.11 The licensee shall be subject to the administrative, civil, injunctive, and criminal remedies, authorized by An Act Relating to the adulteration of foods and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898, (30 Stat. 246; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101, et seq. (2009 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)), for failure to comply with this Code or a directive of the Department, including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, notices, orders, warnings, and other directives.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4311 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ LICENSES NOT TRANSFERABLE

4311.1 A license shall not be transferred from one person to another person, from one food establishment to another, or from one type of operation to another if the food operation changes from the type of operation stated in the application, as specified in §§ 4304.3 through 4304.9, and the change in operation is not approved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A44 INSPECTION AND CORRECTION OF VIOLATIONS

25-A DCMR § 4400 FREQUENCY ─ RISK-BASED INSPECTION SCHEDULE

4400.1 The Department shall inspect a food establishment based on a written risk-based inspection schedule that is uniformly applied throughout the District. The Department shall determine, by telephone or other means, that the establishment, its management and the nature of its food operation are not changed.

4400.2 The Department shall characterize each food establishment, according to the following risks, for the purpose of inspection frequency:

(a) HIGH-RISK #5: Extensive handling of raw ingredients. Food processing at the retail level (such as, smoking and curing; reduced oxygen packaging for extended shelf-life);

(b) HIGH-RISK #4: Extensive handling of raw ingredients. Preparation processes include the cooking, cooling, and reheating of potentially hazardous foods. A variety of processes require hot and cold holding of potentially hazardous foods. Food processes include advanced preparation for next-day service. This category would also include those facilities whose primary service population is immune-compromised;

(c) MODERATE-RISK #3: Extensive handling of raw ingredients. Preparation process includes the cooking, cooling, and reheating of potentially hazardous foods. A variety of processes require hot and cold holding of potentially hazardous food. Advance preparation for next-day service is limited to two (2) or three (3) items. Retail food operations include deli and seafood departments, establishments doing food processing at retail;

(d) MODERATE-RISK #2: Limited menu (one (1) or two (2) main items)). Pre-packaged raw ingredients are cooked or prepared to order. Retail food operations exclude deli or seafood departments. Raw ingredients require minimal assembly. Most products are cooked/prepared and served immediately. Hot and cold holding of potentially hazardous foods is restricted to single meal service. Preparation processes requiring cooking, cooling, and reheating are limited to one (1) or two (2) potentially hazardous foods; and

(e) LOW-RISK #1: Primarily prepackaged not potentially hazardous foods. Limited preparation of hot dogs and frankfurters; and mobile ice cream operations.

4400.3 The Department may increase the interval between inspections if the food establishment is fully operating under an approved and validated HACCP Plan as specified in §§ 4104.2 and 4205.

4400.4 The Department may inspect a food establishment less frequently if the establishment's operation involves only coffee service and other unpackaged or prepackaged food that is not potentially hazardous such as carbonated beverages and snack foods such as chips, nuts, popcorn, and pretzels.

4400.5 The Department shall periodically inspect throughout its license period a temporary food establishment that prepares, sells, or serves unpackaged potentially hazardous food and that:

(a) Has improvised rather than permanent facilities or equipment for accomplishing functions such as handwashing, food preparation and protection, food temperature control, warewashing, providing drinking water, waste retention and disposal, and insect and rodent control; or

(b) Has inexperienced food employees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4401 FREQUENCY ─ PERFORMANCE AND RISK-BASED FACTORS

4401.1 Within the parameters specified in § 4400, the Department shall prioritize, and conduct more frequent inspections based upon its assessment of a food establishment's history of compliance with this Code and the establishment's potential as a vector of foodborne illness by evaluating:

(a) Past performance, for nonconformance with this Code or HACCP Plan requirements that are priority items or priority foundation items;

(b) Past performance, for numerous or repeat violations of this Code or HACCP Plan requirements that are core items;

(c) Past performance, for complaints investigated and found to be valid;

(d) The hazards associated with the particular foods that are prepared, stored, or served;

(e) The type of operation including the methods and extent of food storage, preparation, and service;

(f) The number of people served; and

(g) Whether the population served is a highly susceptible population.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4402 ACCESS AND COMPETENCY OF INSPECTORS ─ RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL A MISDEMEANOR

4402.1 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose of, and an intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with this Code, the person in charge shall allow access to the Department during the food establishment's hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department, for one (1) or more of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the food establishment is in compliance with this Code;

(b) To examine and sample the food; and

(c) To obtain information, and examine records on the premises relating to food purchased, received, or used by the food establishment.

4402.2 If a person denies access to the Department, the Department shall inform the person that:

(a) The licensee is required to allow access to the Department as specified in § 4402.1;

(b) Access is a condition of the acceptance and retention of a food establishment license to operate as specified in § 4310.7;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

4402.3 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in § 4402.1, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in § 4402.2, and the person in charge continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on an inspection report form.

4402.4 If denied access to a food establishment for an authorized purpose and after complying with § 4402.2, the Department may issue, or apply for the issuance of, an inspection order to gain access as provided by District law.

4402.5 An authorized representative of the Department who inspects a food establishment or conducts plan review for compliance with this Code shall have the knowledge, skills, and ability to adequately perform the required duties.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4403 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

4403.1 The Department shall designate the form for each food establishment inspection.

4403.2 The Department shall document on an inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the food establishment's legal identity, street and mailing addresses, type of establishment and the nature of its operations as specified in § 4304, inspection date, and other information such as type of water supply and sewage disposal, status of the license, and personnel certificates that may be required; and

(b) Specific factual observations of volatile conditions or other deviations from this Code that require correction by the licensee including:

(1) Failure of the person in charge to demonstrate the knowledge of foodborne illness prevention, application of HACCP principles, and the requirements of this Code specified in § 201;

(2) Failure of food employees, conditional employee, and the person in charge to report or demonstrate their knowledge of their responsibility to report a disease or medical condition as specified in §§ 300 and 303.1;

(3) Nonconformance with priority items or priority foundation items of this Code;

(4) Failure of the appropriate food employees to demonstrate their knowledge of, and ability to perform in accordance with, the procedural, monitoring, verification, and corrective action practices required by the Department as specified in § 4104;

(5) Failure of the person in charge to provide records required by the Department for determining conformance with a HACCP Plan as specified in § 4205.1(d)(6); and

(6) Nonconformance with critical limits of a HACCP Plan.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4404 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

4404.1 The Department shall specify on the inspection report form the time frame for correction of the violations as specified in §§ 4410 and 4412.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4405 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

4405.1 At the conclusion of the inspection and according to this Code, the Department shall provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee or to the person in charge, and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4406 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

4406.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspectional findings as specified in § 4405 that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee's obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt is noted in the inspection report and conveyed to the Department's historical record for the food establishment.

4406.2 The Department shall make a final request that the person in charge sign an acknowledgment receipt of inspection findings.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4407 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ PUBLIC INFORMATION, RECORDS RETENTION

4407.1 The Department shall keep and maintain a record of each inspection report, complaint, inspector’s sample reports, license suspension, and other correspondence made of any food establishment within the District for a period of one (1) year as an active file. After one (1) year, records are deemed inactive for a period of two (2) additional years and shall be destroyed at the end of the two (2) year inactive period, except as specified in § 4407.2.

4407.2 In the case of an audit and or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit and/or investigation has been completed.

4407.3 The Department shall treat the inspection report as a public document and shall make it available for disclosure to a person who requests it as provided in the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-501, et seq. (2011 Repl.)), except as provided in § 4206.

4407.4 The Department shall maintain the following information:

(a) Total number of licensed food establishments by category;

(b) Number of yearly inspections by category;

(c) Number of reinspections by category;

(d) Number of hearings;

(e) Number of license suspensions;

(f) Number of license revocations;

(g) Number of foodborne illness complaints investigated (including the number of cases involving more than two (2) persons and the total number of persons involved);

(h) Number of general complaints investigated;

(i) Number and types of variances issued;

(j) Total number of sanitarians; and

(k) Other information the Department may deem necessary.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4408 IMMINIENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING

4408.1 A licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department whenever any of the following conditions occur:

(a) Operating a food establishment with extensive fire damage that affects the establishment’s ability to operate in compliance with this Code; P

(b) Operating a food establishment with a flood or serious flood damage that affects the establishment’s ability to operate in compliance with this Code; P

(c) Operating a food establishment with an extended interruption of electrical services that affects the establishment’s ability to operate in compliance with this Code; P

(d) Operating a food establishment with an interruption of water service resulting in insufficient capacity to meet water demands throughout the establishment; P

(e) Operating a food establishment with a sewage backup; P

(f) Misuse of poisonous or toxic materials; P

(g) Onset of an apparent foodborne illness outbreak; P

(h) Operating a food establishment with gross insanitary occurrence or condition or other circumstances that may endanger public health including but not limited to an infestation of vermin; P

(i) Operating without a valid Certificate of Occupancy; P

(j) Failing to minimize the presence of insects, rodents, or other pests on the premises in violation of § 3210.1(a) through (d); P or

(k) The Department determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in § 4402.1(a) through (c) the existence of any other condition which endangers the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to: P

(1) Operating a food establishment without a license in violation of § 4300.1; P

(2) Operating a food establishment with an expired license in violation of § 4300.2; P

(3) Operating a food establishment with a suspended license in violation of §§ 4300.3 and 4718; P

(4) Failure of licensee to employ a full-time person-in-charge who is a certified food protection manager recognized by the Department in violation of §§ 203.1 and 203.3; P

(5) Failure of licensee to employ a full-time person-in-charge who is a certified food protection manager recognized by the Department and who is present at the food establishment during all hours of operation in violation of §§ 200.3, 200.4, and 203; P

(6) Failure of licensee to employ a full-time person-in-charge who is a certified food protection manager recognized by the Department and who is able to demonstrate knowledge in violation of § 201; P

(7) Selling, exchanging or delivering, or having in his or her custody or possession with the intent to sell or exchange, or expose, or offer for sale or exchange, any article of food which is adulterated in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-101 (2009 Repl.); P

(8) Operating a food establishment with no hot water in violation of § 2305; P

(9) Operating with incorrect hot or cold holding temperatures for potentially hazardous foods that do not comply with this Code and that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of Chapter 10; P

(10) Operating a food establishment with six (6) or more critical violations that cannot be corrected on site during the course of the inspection; P

(11) Failing to hire a D.C. licensed Pesticide Operator/contractor in violation of § 3210.2; P

(12) Failing to allow access to the Department’s representatives during the food establishment’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department in violation of § 4402.1; P

(13) Hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-108 (2009 Repl.); P or

(14) Failing to designate a non-smoking area in a restaurant with a capacity of 50 or more in violation of D.C. Official Code §§ 7- 1703.01(a) or (b) (2008 Repl.). P

(l) The Department shall also determine through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in § 4402.1(a) through (c) the existence of additional conditions which endanger the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to: P

(1) Operating as a food vendor without a license in violation of § 3700.1;

(2) Operating as a food vendor with an expired license in violation of § 3700.2; P

(3) Operating as a food vendor with a suspended license in violation of §§ 3700.3 and 4718; P

(4) Operating as a food vendor without a Food Protection Manager Certificate and a DOH-Issued Certified Food Protection Manager Identification Card in violation of §§ 203 and 3700.2; P

(5) Operating a mobile food unit without a valid Health Inspection Certificate issued by the Department in violation of § 3706.1; P

(6) Possessing, preparing or vending any food requiring further processing from its original state aboard a mobile food unit without meeting the requirements of §§ 3700.6 and 3701, and this Code; P

(7) Operating a depot, commissary or service support facility that services a mobile food unit without a valid license to operate issued by the Mayor in violation of §§ 3700.7 and 4300.1; P

(8) Operating a depot, commissary or service support facility that services a mobile food unit with a license that has been suspended for violations of this chapter and applicable provisions of this Code; P

(9) Using a deep fryer or other cooking equipment that requires a hood suppression system, except with the written approval of the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department; P

(10) Possessing, preparing, selling, offering to sale, or giving away any food requiring further processing from its original state without the submission of a HACCP Plan, Parasite Destruction Letter, or Risk Control Plan depending on the food and/or process as requested by the Department; P

(11) Operating a mobile food unit without a current motor vehicle registration that is conspicuously displayed on the mobile food unit in violation of § 3713.1(h). P

(12) Selling, exchanging or delivering, or having in his or her custody or possession with the intent to sell or exchange, or expose, or offer for sale or exchange, any article of food which is adulterated in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-101 (2009 Repl.); P

(13) Operating a mobile food unit, depot, commissary or service support facility that services a mobile food unit with no hot water in violation of § 2305; P

(14) Operating with incorrect hot or cold holding temperatures for potentially hazardous foods that do not comply with this Code and that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of Chapter 10; P or

(15) Hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-108 (2009 Repl.). P

(m) The Department shall also determine through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in § 4402.1(a) through (c) the existence of additional conditions which endanger the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to: P

(1) Operating as a caterer without a license in violation of § 3900.1;

(2) Operating as a caterer with an expired license in violation of § 3900.2; P

(3) Operating as a caterer with a suspended license in violation of §§ 3900.3 and 4718; P

(4) Failure of caterer to use transport containers capable of maintaining proper temperatures in accordance with Chapters 6 through 13 when transporting and holding potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food); P

(5) Failure of catered establishment that receives food from a licensed caterer or licensed food establishment to obtain a “Food Establishment License” with the proper licensure notations as specified in §§ 4000.1(a), 4002.1(a), 4003.1(a), 4004.1(a), and 4300.1 through 4300.3; P

(6) Failure of catered establishment to maintain a current copy of its contract with the licensed caterer or licensed food establishment on the premises for review by the Department as specified in §§ 4000.2(a) through (f); P

(7) Failure of catered establishment that prepares and serves potentially hazardous foods (time/ temperature control for safety food) on the premise to comply with this chapter and all applicable provisions of this Code;

(8) Failure of catered establishment that prepares and serves potentially hazardous foods (time/ temperature control for safety food) on the premises to comply with this chapter and all applicable provisions of this Code;

(9) Failure of catered establishment to remove potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) from transport containers and store in an approved refrigerator until served;

(10) Failure of catered establishment to maintain potentially hazardous food (time/ temperature control for safety food) kept in the transport containers at proper temperatures in accordance with Chapters 6 through 13; P

(11) Failure of catered establishment to serve milk in original individual commercially filled containers received from the distributor, or from an approved bulk milk dispenser, or poured from a commercially filled container of not more than one gallon (1 gal.) capacity;

(12) Failure of catered establishment to immediately refrigerate milk served in original individual commercially filled containers received from the distributor, or from an approved bulk milk dispenser, or poured from a commercially filled container of not more than one gallon (1 gal.) capacity when not in use. P

(13) Failure of catered establishment to have a certified food protection manager on site during periods in which food is received and served; P

(14) Selling, exchanging or delivering, or having in his or her custody or possession with the intent to sell or exchange, or expose, or offer for sale or exchange, any article of food which is adulterated in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-101 (2009 Repl.); P

(15) Operating a catered establishment with no hot water in violation of § 2305; P

(16) Operating a catered establishment with incorrect hot or cold holding temperatures for potentially hazardous foods that do not comply with this Code and that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of Chapter 10; P

(17) Failing to allow access to Department representatives during the food establishment’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department in violation of § 4402.1; P or

(18) Hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty in violation of D.C. Official Code § 48-108 (2009 Repl.). P

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4409 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD OR VIOLATIONS OF PRIORITY ITEMS OR PRIORITY FOUNDATION ITEMS ─ RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

4409.1 If operations are discontinued as specified in § 4408, or because the operation was cited with six (6) or more violations of priority items, or of priority foundation items, or a combination thereof, which could not be corrected while the inspector is on site during the course of the inspection, or otherwise according to applicable D.C. laws and regulations, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department before resuming operations as specified in § 4413.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4410 VIOLATIONS OF PRIORITY ITEMS OR PRIORITY FOUNDATION ITEMS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

4410.1 A licensee at the time of an inspection shall correct a violation of a priority item or priority foundation item of this Code and implement corrective actions for a HACCP Plan provision that is not in compliance with its critical limit, except as specified in § 4410.2.

4410.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to or specify a longer time frame, not to exceed five (5) calendar days after the inspection, for the licensee to correct a violation of a priority item or priority foundation item of this Code or HACCP Plan deviations.

4410.3 Violations of this section may subject a licensee to an embargo order pursuant to § 4702, a condemnation order pursuant to § 4709, summary suspension of license pursuant to § 4714, revocation or suspension of license pursuant to § 4719, civil penalties pursuant to § 4720, and judicial remedies pursuant to § 4722.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4411 VIOLATIONS OF PRIORITY ITEMS OR PRIORITY FOUNDATION ITEMS ─ VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

4411.1 After observing at the time of inspection a correction of a violation of a priority item or priority foundation item or deviation, the Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on the inspection report.

4411.2 After receiving notification that the licensee has corrected a violation of a priority item or priority foundation item or HACCP Plan deviation, or at the end of the specified period of time as stated in § 4410.2, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in the Department's records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4412 VIOLATIONS OF CORE ITEMS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

4412.1 The licensee shall correct core items by a date and time agreed to or specified by the Department but no later than fourteen (14) calendar days after the inspection, except as specified in § 4412.2.

4412.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in § 4412.1 if the licensee submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance.

4412.3 Violations of this section may subject a licensee to revocation or suspension of license pursuant to § 4719, civil penalties pursuant to § 4720, and judicial remedies pursuant to § 4722.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4413 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

4413.1 If a license is suspended pursuant to § 4714, Summary License Suspension or § 4719, License Revocation or Suspension because of violations of this Code, the licensee shall:

(a) Correct all violations cited in the Notice of Summary Suspension before requesting a reinspection;

(b) Submit a written request for reinspection;

(c) Pay the required reinspection fee; and

(d) Contact the Department to schedule a reinspection.

4413.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the food establishment within three (3) calendar days of receipt of the request.

4413.3 A food establishment shall not resume operation or remove from public view any warning or most recent sanitation inspection results until such time as the Department has reinspected the food establishment and certified that it is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4414 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

4414.1 If a license is suspended pursuant to section 4714, Summary License Suspension or section 4719, License Revocation or Suspension because of violations of this Code, the licensee shall submit a written request for reinspection.

4414.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the food establishment within three (3) calendar days of receipt of the request.

4414.3 A food establishment shall not resume operation or remove from public view any warning or most recent sanitation inspection results until such time as the Department has reinspected the food establishment and certified that it is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 6184, 6359 (July 5, 2002).

25-A45 PREVENTION OF FOODBORNE DISEASE TRANSMISSION BY FOOD EMPLOYEE

25-A DCMR § 4500 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ OBTAINING INFORMATION, PERSONAL HISTORY OF ILLNESS, MEDICAL EXAMINATION, AND SPECIMEN ANALYSIS

4500.1 The Department shall, when it has probable cause to believe that a food employee or conditional employee has transmitted a disease; may be infected with a disease in a communicable form that is transmissible through food; may be carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through food; or is affected with a boil, an infected wound, or acute respiratory infection:

(a) Secure a confidential medical history of the food employee or conditional employee suspected of transmitting disease or making other investigations as deemed appropriate; and

(b) Require appropriate medical examinations, including collection of specimens for laboratory analysis, of a suspected food employee or conditional employee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4501 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION OF FOOD EMPLOYEE OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE

4501.1 Based on the findings of an investigation related to a food employee or conditional employee who is suspected of being infected or diseased, or a carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through food, the Department may issue an order to the suspected food employee or conditional employee or licensee instituting one (1) or more of the following control measures:

(a) Restricting the food employee or conditional employee;

(b) Excluding the food employee or conditional employee; or

(c) Closing the food establishment by summarily suspending a license to operate in accordance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4502 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION ORDER WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED, INFORMATION REQUIRED IN ORDER

4502.1 Based on the findings of the investigation as specified in § 4500 and to control disease transmission, the Department may issue an order of restriction or exclusion to a suspected food employee or the licensee without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a hearing if the order:

(a) States the reasons for the restriction or exclusion that is ordered;

(b) States the evidence that the food employee or licensee shall provide in order to demonstrate that the reasons for the restriction or exclusion are eliminated;

(c) States that the suspected food employee or the licensee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request as provided in this Code; and

(d) Provides the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4503 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ REMOVAL OF EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS

4503.1 The Department shall release a food employee, or conditional employee from restriction or exclusion according to law and the conditions specified in § 307.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A46 NOTICES

25-A DCMR § 4600 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROPER METHODS

4600.1 A notice issued in accordance with this Code shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) A Department representative, a law enforcement officer, or person authorized to serve a civil process personally services the notice and service is made to the licensee, the person in charge, or person operating a food establishment without a license;

(b) The Department sends the notice to the last known home or business address of the licensee or person operating a food establishment without a license in accordance with § 205 of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05 (2011 Supp.)), or by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) For civil infraction penalties, the notice is provided by the Department in accordance with 16 DCMR § 3102.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4601 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION, EMBARGO, CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

4601.1 An employee restriction or exclusion order, embargo order, condemnation order, or a summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in § 4600.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the food establishment and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the licensee or the owner or custodian of the food, as appropriate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4602 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ WHEN NOTICE IS EFFECTIVE

4602.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt or if service is made as specified in § 4601.1(b), at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4603 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

4603.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a receipt, certificate of mailing or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee, the person operating a food establishment without a license to operate, or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A47 REMEDIES

25-A DCMR § 4700 CRITERIA FOR SEEKING REMEDIES ─ CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY

4700.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of this Code if a person operating a food establishment or food employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license to operate a food establishment as specified in § 4300;

(b) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in § 4310;

(c) Allows serious or repeat Code violations to remain uncorrected beyond time frames for correction approved, directed, or ordered by the Department as specified in §§ 4410 and 4412;

(d) Fails to comply with a Department order issued as specified in § 4501 concerning a food employee or conditional employee suspected of having a disease transmissible through food by an infected person;

(e) Fails to comply with an embargo or condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(f) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter; or

(g) Fails to comply with an order issued as a result of an administrative hearing.

4700.2 The Department may simultaneously use one (1) or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4701 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EXAMINING, SAMPLING, AND TESTING FOOD

4701.1 The Department may collect, examine sample, and test food, without cost, as necessary to determine compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4702 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF FOOD

4702.1 The Department may embargo, forbid the sale of, or cause to be destroyed, any food that:

(a) May be unsafe, adulterated, or not honestly presented;

(b) Is not prepared, processed and handled, packaged, transported, or stored in compliance with this Code;

(c) Originated from an unapproved source;

(d) Is not labeled according to law, or if raw molluscan shellfish, is not tagged or labeled as specified in §§ 713.2 and 714.4; or

(e) Is otherwise not in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4703 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, CONTENTS

4703.1 The embargo order notice shall:

(a) State that food subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the food establishment, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the food under the embargo order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Code and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the food subject to the embargo order by the common name, the label information, a container description, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with Chapter 48, which does not stay the Department’s imposition of the embargo;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction of the food if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4704 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OF FOOD

4704.1 The Department shall securely place an official tag or label on the food or containers or otherwise conspicuously identify food subject to the embargo order.

4704.2 The tag or other method used to identify a food that is the subject of an embargo order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in § 4703 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4705 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, FOOD MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

4705.1 A food placed under an embargo order may not be used, sold, served, or moved from the establishment by any person, except as specified in § 4705.2.

4705.2 The Department may allow the licensee the opportunity to store the food in an area of the food establishment if the food is protected from subsequent deterioration and the storage does not restrict operations of the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4706 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG

4706.1 Only the Department may remove embargo order tags, labels, or other identification from food subject to an embargo order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4707 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, DESTROYING OR DENATURING FOOD

4707.1 If an embargo order is sustained pursuant to a hearing or if a timely request for a hearing is not filed, the Department may order the licensee or other person who owns or has custody of the food to bring the food into compliance with this Code or to destroy or denature the food under the Department's supervision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4708 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EMBARGO ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

4708.1 The Department may issue an embargo order to a licensee or to a person who owns or controls the food, as specified in § 4702.1 without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a hearing on the embargo order.

4708.2 The licensee shall have a right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of receiving an embargo order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the embargo action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4709 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, AND LINENS

4709.1 The Department may condemn and cause to be removed any equipment, utensils or linens found in a food establishment, the use of which does not comply with this Code, or that is being used in violation of this Code, or that because of dirt, filth, extraneous matter, insects, corrosion, open seams, or chipped or cracked surfaces is unfit for use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4710 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

4710.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, utensils, or linens subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the food establishment, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, utensils, or linens under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Code and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, utensils, or linens subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the label or manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with Chapter 48, which request does not stay the Department’s imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction, replacement or removal of the equipment, utensils or linens if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4711 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, AND LINENS

4711.1 The Department shall place a tag or other identification to indicate the condemnation of equipment, utensils, or linens that do not meet the requirements of this Code.

4711.2 The tag or other method used to identify equipment, utensils, or linens that are the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in § 4710 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4712 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG

4712.1 No person shall remove the tag except under the direction of the Department as specified in § 4712.2.

4712.2 The Department shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other identification from equipment, utensils, and linens if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee notifies the Department that the equipment, utensils and linens have been modified to meet the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) or NSF equivalent standards and the requirements of this Code and after the Department has conducted a re-inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4713 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

4713.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, utensils or linens as specified in § 4709.1 without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a hearing on the condemnation order.

4713.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of receiving a Department condemnation order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy- two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy- two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the condemnation action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4714 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY LICENSE SUSPENSION CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

4714.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a food establishment if it determines through an inspection, or examination of employees, food, food source, records, or other means as specified in this Code, that an imminent health hazard exists, or that the food establishment has been cited for six (6) or more violations of priority items, or of priority foundation items, or a combination thereof, and the food establishment is unable to correct them while the inspector is on site during the inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4715 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

4715.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the food establishment license is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Code that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the licensee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with § 4716. The licensee’s request does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension notice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4716 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

4716.1 The Department may summarily suspend a person's license as specified in § 4714 by providing written notice as specified in § 4601 of the summary suspension to the licensee or person in charge, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a hearing.

4716.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of receiving the Department’s summary suspension notice. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the summary suspension action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4717 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIMEFRAME FOR REINSPECTION

4717.1 After receiving a written request from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exists, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the food establishment for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days during which the Department's office is open to the public.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4718 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

4718.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist and elimination of the cited conditions has been confirmed by the Department through re-inspection and other means, as appropriate.

4718.2 A license that has been summarily suspended shall be reinstated if the Department determines that the public health hazard or nuisance cited in the summary suspension order no longer exists. The Department shall provide the licensee or person in charge with a notice of reinstatement.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4719 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ LICENSE REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION

4719.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued for a food establishment pursuant to An Act Relating to the adulteration of foods and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898, (30 Stat. 246; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101, et seq. (2009 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)). When there is a history of repeated violations or where a license has been previously suspended, the Mayor may revoke a license, upon a showing of a subsequent violation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4720 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CIVIL PENALTIES, CIVIL FINES, AND NOTICES OF INFRACTIONS

4720.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any food establishment, owner, or person in charge for violation of any provision of this Code.

4720.2 The Department may impose penalties for violations of any provision of this Code not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with this Code shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with An Act Relating to the adulteration of foods and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898, (30 Stat. 246; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101, et seq. (2009 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)).

4720.3 The Department may impose civil fines, penalties, and fees as alternative sanctions for violations of any provision of this Code pursuant to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, (Civil Infractions Act) effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1801.01, et seq. (2007 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)).

4720.4 Civil fines or penalties imposed pursuant to § 4720.2 in an amount exceeding the Civil Infractions Schedule of Fines authorized by § 4720.3 shall be limited to egregious violations or flagrant violations involving gross negligence or carelessness, or violations involving the transmission of communicable diseases through foods that do not meet the criminal penalty standards in § 4721.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4721 JUDICIAL ─ CRIMINAL PENALTIES, INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, AND IMPRISONMENT

4721.1 Any person who knowingly violates any provision of this Code shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000), imprisonment not to exceed one (1) year or both for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with this Code shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with An Act Relating to the adulteration of foods and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898, (30 Stat. 246; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101, et seq. (2009 Repl. & 2011 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4722 JUDICIAL - CRIMINAL PENALTIES, INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, IMPRISONMENT

4722.1 Any person who knowingly violates any provision of this Code shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000), imprisonment not to exceed one (1) year or both for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with this Code shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with the Food Regulation Amendment Act of 2002, effective May 2, 2002 (D.C. Law 14-116; D.C. Official Code §§ 48-101 et seq.).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003), incorporating by reference the text of Proposed Rulemaking published at 49 DCR 6184, 6370 (July 5, 2002).

25-A48 HEARING ADMINISTRATION

25-A DCMR § 4800 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ NOTICE REQUEST FOR HEARING, BASIS AND TIME FRAME

4800.1 A person who receives a notice of hearing for an administrative remedy as specified in Chapter 47 and elects to respond to the notice shall file a response to the notice within seven (7) calendar days after service.

4800.2 A licensee subject to an adverse administrative action who wishes to challenge the action shall submit a written request for a hearing to the Department within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of notice of adverse action.

4800.3 A hearing request does not stay the Department's restriction or exclusion of food employees or conditional employees specified in §§ 4501 to 4503, an embargo order as specified in § 4702, a condemnation order as specified in § 4709, or the imposition of a summary suspension as specified in § 4714.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4801 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION – CONTENTS OF A RESPONSE TO HEARING NOTICE, OR HEARING REQUEST

4801.1 A response to a hearing notice shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement as to whether the respondent waives the right to a hearing;

(c) A statement of defense, mitigation, or explanation concerning any allegation of fact if any;

(d) A request to the Department for a settlement of the proceeding by consent agreement, (if the Department provides this opportunity); and

(e) The name and address of the respondent’s or requester’s legal counsel, if any.

4801.2 A request for hearing shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement of defense, mitigation, denial, or explanation concerning each allegation of fact; and

(c) The name and address of the respondent’s or requester’s legal counsel, if any.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 4802 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION, TIMELINESS

4802.1 The Department shall afford a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours after receiving a written request for a hearing from:

(a) A person who is excluded by the Department from working in a food establishment as specified in §§ 4501 to 4503;

(b) A licensee or person whose food is subject to an embargo order as specified in §§ 4702 to 4708; or a condemnation order as specified in §§ 4709 through 4713;

(c) A licensee whose license is summarily suspended as specified in §§ 4714 to 4718; or

(d) A licensee whose license is suspended or revoked as specified in § 4719.

4802.2 A licensee or person who submits a request for a hearing as specified in § 4801.2 may waive the expedited hearing in a written request to the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A49 JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-A DCMR § 4900 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

4900.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code § 2-510 (2011 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-A50 [DELETED]

25-A DCMR § 5000 FEES

5000.1 The following fees are applicable to Certified Food Protection Managers and Certified Limited Food Protection Managers:

Description of Services: Fees:

New Food Manager Identification $ 35.00

Card (Valid for a 3-year period)

Renewal of Food Manager Identification $ 35.00

Card (Valid for a 3-year period)

Lost Identification Card Replacement $ 15.00

5000.2 The following fees are applicable to Health Inspections Certificates for Mobile Food Vendors:

Description of Services: Fees:

Health Inspection Certificate $ 100.00

(Food Carts) (Valid for 6 months) (every 6 mos.)

Lost Health Inspection Certificate $ 15.00

(Food Carts)

5000.3 The following fees are applicable to Food Establishment Plan Reviews:

Description of Services: Fees:

Plan Review - Type A (Carryout or capacity of 25 seats or less, or a market with 3,000 sq. ft. or less of gross floor area)

$100.00

Plan Review - Type B

(26 to 75 seats, or a market with more than 3,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area but less than 10,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area)

$200.00

Plan Review - Type C

(76 or more seats, or a market with more than 10,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area)

$300.00

Plan Review - Equipment Replacement $ 70.00

5000.4 The following fees are applicable to Compliance Re-inspections after Closures for violations of Title 25 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (Food Code):

Description of Services: Fees:

Compliance Re-inspection

During business hours (9:00 a.m. - 4:40 p.m.)

$100.00 (per inspection)

Compliance Re-inspection

After business hours or on the weekend

$400.00 (per inspection)

5000.5 The following fees are applicable to Requests for Variances from a required provision of Title 25 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (Food Code):

Description of Services: Fees:

Processing a Variance Request $200.00

5000.6 The following fees are applicable to HACCP Plan Reviews as determined by risk levels identified in Section 4400.2 of Title 25 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (Food Code):

Description of Services: Fees:

Moderate Risks (#2 and #3) Establishments $ 75.00

High Risks (#4 and #5) Establishments $125.00

Food Processors $200.00

5000.7 All fees shall be paid by certified check, money order, business check, or personal check made payable to the “District of Columbia Treasurer.”

History

  • SOURCE: June 2, 2006 5000.1 to 5000.2 replaced by 5000.1 to 5000.7 at 53 DCR 4454; July 22, 2005 5000 to 5000.2 new at 52 DCR 6839.

25-A99 DEFINITIONS

25-A DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).
25-A DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1 The following terms and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Accredited program – consists of the following:

(a) A food protection manager certification program accredited by the Conference for Food Protection Standards for Accreditation of Food Protection Manager Certification Programs;

(b) Refers to the certification process and is a designation based upon an independent evaluation of factors such as the sponsor’s mission; organizational structure; staff resources; revenue sources; policies; public information regarding program scope, eligibility requirements, recertification, discipline and grievance procedures; and test development and administration; and

(c) Does not refer to training functions or educational programs.

Additive (Color) – has the meaning stated in § 201(t) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, approved June 25, 1938 (52 Stat. 1040; 21 U.S.C. §§ 301, et seq.) (Federal Food Act), and 21 C.F.R. § 70.3(f).

Additive (Food) – has the meaning stated in § 201(s) of the Federal Food Act, and 21 C.F.R. § 170.3(e)(1).

Adulterated food – has the meaning stated in § 402 of the Federal Food Act.

Approved – acceptable to the Department of Health or other regulatory authority based on a determination of conformity with principles, practices, and generally recognized standards that protect public health.

Asymptomatic – includes but is not limited to the following:

(a) Without obvious symptoms; not showing or producing indications of a disease or other medical condition, such as an individual infected with a pathogen but not exhibiting or producing any signs or symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, or jaundice; or

(b) Not showing symptoms because symptoms have resolved or subsided, or because symptoms never manifested.

aw – water activity which is a measure of the free moisture in a food, is the quotient of the water vapor pressure of the substance divided by the vapor pressure of pure water at the same temperature, and is indicated by the symbol aw.

Balut – an embryo inside a fertile egg that has been incubated for a period sufficient for the embryo to reach a specific stage of development after which it is removed from incubation before hatching.

Bainmaries – a hot water-heated, food holding table.

Bed and breakfast operation – a facility where breakfast is included in the rent and is the only meal offered.

Beverage – a liquid for drinking, including water.

Bottled drinking water – water that is sealed in bottles, packages, or other containers and offered for sale for human consumption, including bottled mineral water.

Calrod unit – an electric heating element.

Casing – a tubular container for sausage products made of either natural or artificial (synthetic) material.

Catered establishment – a facility that receives food from a licensed caterer or other licensed food establishment including but not limited to public schools, chartered schools, private schools, child development centers, adult day care establishments, nursing homes, schools, community residential establishments, or other institutions.

Caterer – any person who prepares food intended for individual portion service, transports and serves it at another location, or who prepares and serves food at a food establishment, other than one for which he or she holds a license, for service at a single meal, party, or similar gathering.

Certificate – a document issued by the Department, or another jurisdiction or private vendor that is accepted by the Department, which demonstrates that the person identified on the certificate has been determined to be a “certified food protection manager” or a “certified limited food protection manager.”

Certification number – a unique combination of letters and numbers assigned by a shellfish control authority to a molluscan shellfish dealer according to the provisions of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Certified Food Protection Manager – food professional, trained and certified by an accredited program approved or provided by the Department, who meets specific food safety knowledge standards as to handling raw ingredients and the cooking, cooling and reheating of potentially hazardous foods in food establishments.

Child development center – as defined in the Child Development Facilities Regulations (29 DCMR Chapter 3).

Child development home – as defined in the Child Development Facilities Regulations (29 DCMR Chapter 3).

CIP – cleaned in place by the circulation or flowing by mechanical means through a piping system of a detergent solution, water rinse, and sanitizing solution onto or over equipment surfaces that require cleaning, such as the method used, in part, to clean and sanitize a frozen dessert machine; but does not include the cleaning of equipment such as band saws, slicers, or mixers that are subjected to in place manual cleaning without the use of a CIP system.

Code of Federal Regulations – the compilation of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies of the federal government that is published annually by the U.S. Government Printing Office; and contains FDA rules in 21 C.F.R., USDA rules in 7 C.F.R. and 9 C.F.R., EPA rules in 40 C.F.R., and Wildlife and Fisheries rules in 50 C.F.R.

Commingle – consists of the following

(a) Combining shellstock harvested on different days or from different growing areas as identified on the tag or label; or

(b) Combining shucked shellfish from containers with different container codes or different shucking dates.

Comminuted – reduced in size by methods including chopping, flaking, grinding, or mincing, and includes fish or meat products that are reduced in size and restructured or reformulated such as gefilte fish, gyros, ground beef, and sausage, and a mixture of two (2) or more types of meat that have been reduced in size and combined, such as sausages made from two (2) or more meats.

Community residential facility – as defined in the “Health-Care and Community Residence Facility, Hospice and Home Care Licensure Act of 1983”, effective February 24, 1984 (D.C. Law 5-48; D.C. Official Code § 44-501 (2005 Repl. & 2011 Supp.).

Condemnation order – an administrative restriction or exclusion on the use of specific equipment, utensils or linens.

Conditional employee – a potential food employee to whom a job offer is made, conditional on responses to subsequent medical questions or examinations designed to identify potential food employees who may be suffering from a disease that can be transmitted through food.

Confirmed disease outbreak – a foodborne disease outbreak in which laboratory analysis of appropriate specimens identifies a causative agent and epidemiological analysis implicates the food as the source of the illness.

Consumer – a person, who is a member of the public, takes possession of food, is not functioning in the capacity of an operator of a food establishment or food processing plant, and does not offer the food for resale.

Core item – is:

(a) A provision in this Code that is not designated as a priority item or a priority foundation item; and

(b) An item that usually relates to general sanitation, operational controls, sanitation standard operating procedures (SSOPs), facilities or structures, equipment design, or general maintenance.

Counter-mounted equipment – equipment that is not portable and is designed to be mounted off the floor on a table, counter, or shelf.

Critical control point – a point or procedure in a specific food system where loss of control may result in an unacceptable health risk.

Critical limit – the maximum or minimum value to which a physical, biological, or chemical parameter must be controlled at a critical control point to minimize the risk that the identified food safety hazard may occur.

Cut leafy greens – fresh leafy greens whose leaves have been cut, shredded, sliced, chopped, or torn. The term “leafy greens” includes iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, leaf lettuce, butter lettuce, baby leaf lettuce (for example, immature lettuce or leafy greens), escarole, endive, spring mix, spinach, cabbage, kale, arugula, and chard. The term “leafy greens” does not include herbs such as cilantro or parsley.

Dealer – a person who is authorized by a shellfish control authority for the activities of shellstock shipper, shucker-packer, repacker, reshipper, or depuration processor of molluscan shellfish according to the provisions of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Department – Department of Health.

Director – the Director of the Department of Health or his or her designee.

Disclosure – a written statement that clearly identifies the animal-derived foods which are, or can be ordered, raw, undercooked, or without otherwise being processed to eliminate pathogens, or items that contain an ingredient that is raw, undercooked, or without otherwise being processed to eliminate pathogens.

Drinking water – water that meets 40 C.F.R. part 141 − National Primary Drinking Water Regulations standards and is traditionally known as “potable water,” and includes the term "water," except where the term used connotes that the water is not potable, such as "boiler water," "mop water," "rainwater," "wastewater," and "nondrinking water.”

Easily movable – portable; mounted on casters, gliders or rollers; or provided with a mechanical means to safely tilt a unit of equipment for cleaning; and having no utility connection, a utility connection that connects quickly, or a flexible utility connection line of sufficient length to allow the equipment to be moved for cleaning of the equipment and adjacent area.

Egg – consists of the following:

(a) The shell egg of avian species such as chicken, duck, goose, guinea, quail, ratites, or turkey.

(b) Egg does not include:

(1) A balut;

(2) The egg of a reptile species such as alligator; or

(3) An egg product.

Egg product – consists of the following:

(a) All, or a portion of, the contents found inside eggs separated from the shell and pasteurized in a food processing plant, with or without added ingredients, intended for human consumption, such as dried, frozen, or liquid eggs; and

(b) Does not include food which contains eggs only in a relatively small proportion such as cake mixes.

Embargo order – an administrative restriction or exclusion on the distribution of food or food products.

Employee – the license holder, person in charge, food employee, person having supervisory or management duties, person on the payroll, family member, volunteer, person performing work under contractual agreement, or other person working in a food establishment.

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) – E. coli which causes hemorrhagic colitis, meaning bleeding enterically or bleeding from the intestine. The term is typically used in association with E. coli that have the capacity to produce Shiga Toxins and to cause attaching and effacing lesions in the intestine. EHEC is a subset of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC, whose members produce additional virulence factors. Infections with EHEC may be asymptomatic but are classically associated with bloody diarrhea (hemorrhagic colitis) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) or thrombolic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Examples of serotypes of EHEC include: E. coli O157:H7; E. coli O157:NM; E. coli O26:H11; E. coli O145:NM; E. coli O103:H2; or E. coli O111:NM. See also Shiga Toxin-producing E. coli.

EPA – the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Equipment – an article that is used in the operation of a food establishment, such as a freezer, grinder, hood, ice maker, meat block, mixer, oven, reach-in refrigerator, scale, sink, slicer, stove, table, temperature measuring device for ambient air, vending machine, or warewashing machine but does not include items used for handling or storing large quantities of packaged foods that are received from a supplier in a cased or overwrapped lot, such as hand trucks, forklifts, dollies, pallets, racks, and skids.

Exclude – to prevent a person from working as an employee in a food establishment or entering a food establishment as an employee.

FDA – the United States Food & Drug Administration.

Federal Food Act – the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, approved June 25, 1938 (52 Stat. 1040; 21 U.S.C. §§ 301, et seq.).

Fish – fresh or saltwater finfish, crustaceans, and other forms of aquatic life (including alligator, frog, aquatic turtle, jellyfish, sea cucumber, and sea urchin and the roe of such animals) other than birds or mammals, and all mollusks, if such animal life is intended for human consumption including an edible human food product derived in whole or in part from fish, including fish that have been processed in any manner.

Food – a raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice beverage, or ingredient used or intended for use in whole or in part for human consumption, or chewing gum.

Foodborne disease outbreak – the occurrence of two (2) or more cases of a similar illness resulting from the ingestion of a common food.

Food-contact surface – a surface of equipment or a utensil with which food normally comes into contact or a surface of equipment or a utensil from which food may drain, drip, or splash into a food or onto a surface normally in contact with food.

Food employee – an individual working with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces. This could include the owner, individual having supervisory or management duties, person on payroll, family member, volunteer, person performing work under contractual agreement, or any other person working in a food establishment or catered establishment. In health care facilities, this includes those who set up trays for patients to eat, feed or assist patients in eating, give oral medications or give mouth or denture care. In child development facilities and long term care facilities, which are licensed food establishments, this includes those who prepare food for clients to eat, feed or assist clients in eating or give oral medications.

Food establishment –

(a) Includes but is not limited to an operation that stores, prepares, packages, serves, vends food directly to the consumer, or otherwise provides food for human consumption such as:

(1) A restaurant, grocery store, convenience store, bakery, delicatessen, hotel or bed and breakfast operation where food is provided;

(2) A satellite or catered feeding location;

(3) A catering operation where the operation provides food directly to a consumer or to a conveyance used to transport people such as trains or airplanes;

(4) A market; vending location; conveyance used to transport people such as trains or airplanes; institution; or food bank;

(5) An operation that relinquishes possession of food to a consumer directly, or indirectly through a delivery service such as home delivery of grocery orders or restaurant takeout orders, or delivery service that is provided by common carriers;

(6) An element of the operation such as a transportation vehicle or a central preparation facility that supplies a vending location or satellite feeding location licensed by the Mayor;

(7) An operation that is conducted in a mobile, stationary, temporary, or permanent facility or location; where consumption is on or off the premises; and regardless of whether there is a charge for the food; and

(8) All restaurants, coffee shops, cafeterias, short-order cafés, luncheonettes, soda fountains, and all other eating and drinking establishments operated within the District of Columbia on premises owned or held under lease by the government of the United States or any federal department or agency, irrespective of whether such establishments are operated by the United States or any federal department or agency or by any other person, firm, association, or corporation, and also irrespective of whether such establishments are operated for profit or otherwise. See Chapter 613 of An Act To Extend the health regulations of the District of Columbia to Government restaurants within the District of Columbia, approved December 20, 1944 (58 Stat. 826; D.C. Official Code § 7-2701(a) (2008 Repl.)).

(b) But does not include:

(1) An establishment that offers only prepackaged foods that are not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety) foods;

(2) A produce stand that only offers whole, uncut, fresh fruits and vegetables;

(3) A food processing plant, including those that are located on the premises of a food establishment;

(4) A kitchen in a private home where only food that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for safety) food, is prepared for sale or service at a function such as a religious or charitable organization's bake sale where the consumer is informed by a clearly visible placard at the sales or service location that the food is prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to regulation and inspection by the Department;

(5) An area where food that is prepared as specified in Paragraph (4) of this definition is sold or offered for human consumption;

(6) A kitchen in a private home, including a child development home; a community residential home; or a bed-and-breakfast operation that prepares and offers food to guests if the home is owner occupied, the number of available guest bedrooms do not exceed three (3), breakfast is the only meal offered, the number of guests served does not exceed nine (9), and the consumer is informed by statements contained in published advertisements, mailed brochures, and placards posted at the registration area that the food is prepared in a kitchen that is not regulated and inspected by the Department;

(7) A private home that receives catered or home-delivered food;

(8) A private club, or a church, which serves occasional meals at not more than twenty-four (24) events during a twelve (12) month period; and

(9) United States Senate and House of Representative’s restaurants, as set forth in Chapter 613 of An Act To Extend the health regulations of the District of Columbia to Government restaurants within the District of Columbia, approved December 20, 1944 (58 Stat. 826; D.C. Official Code § 7-2701(b) (2008 Repl.).

Food processing plant – a commercial operation that manufactures, packages, labels, or stores food for human consumption, and provides food for sale or distribution to other business entities such as food processing plants or food establishments.

Game animal –

(a) An animal, the products of which are food, that is not classified as livestock, sheep, swine, goat, horse, mule, or other equine in 9 C.F.R. § 301.2 (Definitions) or as poultry as fish.

(b) Includes mammals such as reindeer, elk, deer, antelope, water buffalo, bison, rabbit, squirrel, opossum, raccoon, nutria, or muskrat, and nonaquatic reptiles such as land snakes.

(c) But does not include ratites.

Grade A standards – the requirements of the United States Public Health Service/FDA "Grade A Pasteurized Milk Ordinance" and "Grade A Condensed and Dry Milk Ordinance" with which certain fluid and dry milk and milk products comply.

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Plan – a written document that delineates the formal procedures for following the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point principles developed by the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods.

Handwashing sink – a lavatory, a basin or vessel for washing, a wash basin, or a plumbing fixture especially placed for use in personal hygiene and designed for the washing of hands; and includes an automatic handwashing facility.

Hazard – a biological, chemical, or physical property that may cause an unacceptable consumer health risk.

Hermetically sealed container – a container that is designed and intended to be secure against the entry of microorganisms and, in the case of low acid canned foods, designed and intended to maintain the commercial sterility of its contents after processing.

Highly susceptible population – persons who are more likely than other people in the general population to experience foodborne disease because they are:

(a) Immune-compromised, preschool age children, or older adults; and

(b) Obtaining food at a facility that provides services including custodial care, health care, assisted living, or nutritional or socialization services, such as a child or adult day care center, kidney dialysis center, hospital, nursing home, or senior center.

Imminent health hazard – a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is sufficient evidence to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury.

Injected – manipulating a meat to which a solution has been introduced into its interior by processes that are referred to as "injecting," "pump marinating," or "stitch pumping”.

Juice – consists of the following:

(a) The aqueous liquid expressed or extracted from one (1) or more fruits or vegetables, purées of the edible portions of one (1) or more fruits or vegetables, or any concentrates of such liquid or purée.

(b) But does not include, for purposes of HACCP, liquids, purées, or concentrates that are not used as beverages or ingredients of beverages.

Kitchenware – food preparation and storage utensils.

License – a government authorization to operate a food establishment.

Licensee – a person who is legally responsible for the operation of the food establishment, such as the owner, the owner's agent, or other person, and who possesses the government authorization to operate a food establishment.

Linens – fabric items such as cloth hampers, cloth napkins, tablecloths, wiping cloths, and work garments including cloth gloves.

Major food allergen –

(a) Consists of the following:

(1) Milk, egg, fish (such as bass, flounder, cod, and including crustacean shellfish such as crab, lobster, or shrimp), tree nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts), wheat, peanuts, and soybeans; and

(2) A food ingredient that contains protein derived from a food, as specified in Subparagraph (a)(1) of this definition.

(b) Does not include:

(1) Any highly refined oil derived from a food specified in Subparagraph (a)(1) of this definition and any ingredient derived from such highly refined oil; or

(2) Any ingredient that is exempt under the petition or notification process specified in Inventory of Petitions Received under 21 U.S.C. § 343(w)(6) for Exemption from Food Allergen Labeling June 13, 2006.

Mass gathering – an actual or reasonably anticipated assembly of one thousand five hundred (1,500) or more persons that will continue, or may reasonably be expected to continue, for more than eight (8) consecutive hours and that is held in an open space or temporary structure especially constructed, erected, or assembled for the gathering.

Meat – the flesh of animals used as food including the dressed flesh of cattle, swine, sheep, or goats and other edible animals, except fish, poultry, and wild game animals as specified under § 706.3 and 706.4 that is offered for human consumption.

Mechanically tenderized – consists of the following:

(a) Manipulating meat with deep penetration by processes which may be referred to as “blade tenderizing,” “jaccarding,” “pinning,” “needling,” or using blades, pins needles or any mechanical device.

(b) But does not include processes by which solutions are injected into meat.

mg/L – milligrams per liter, which is the metric equivalent of parts per million (ppm).

Mobile food unit – a structure used to vend food from public space such as a stand, truck, push cart, tow unit, including structures that use propane fuel or an electric generator.

Molluscan shellfish – any edible species of fresh or frozen oysters, clams, mussels, and scallops or edible portions thereof, but does not mean any scallop product that consists only of the shucked adductor muscle.

Non-Continuous cooking – consists of the following:

(a) The cooking of food in a food establishment using a process in which the initial heating of the food is intentionally halted so that it may be cooled and held for complete cooking at a later time prior to sale or service.

(b) But does not include cooking procedures that only involve temporarily interrupting or slowing an otherwise continuous cooking process.

Packaged – bottled, canned, cartoned, securely bagged, or securely wrapped, whether packaged in a food establishment or a food processing plant, but does not include a wrapper, carry-out box, or other nondurable container used to containerize food with the purpose of facilitating food protection during service and receipt of the food by the consumer.

Patio – terrace, courtyard, veranda, deck, by whatsoever name called, is an extension of a food establishment’s dining area.

Person – an association, a corporation, individual, partnership, trustee, government, or governmental subdivision or agency, or other legal entity.

Person in charge – the individual present at a food establishment who is responsible for the food service operation.

Personal care items – items or substances that may be poisonous, toxic, or a source of contamination and are used to maintain or enhance a person’s health, hygiene, or appearance, including medicines, first aid supplies, cosmetics, toiletries, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

pH – the symbol for the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration, which is a measure of the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution. Values between zero (0) and seven (7) indicate acidity and values between seven (7) and fourteen (14) indicate alkalinity. The value for pure distilled water is seven (7), which is considered neutral.

Physical facilities – the structure and interior surfaces of a food establishment, including accessories such as soap and towel dispensers and attachments such as light fixtures and heating or air conditioning system vents.

Plumbing fixture – a receptacle or device that is permanently or temporarily connected to the water distribution system of the premises and demands a supply of water from the system or discharges used water, waste materials, or sewage directly or indirectly to the drainage system of the premises.

Plumbing system – the water supply and distribution pipes; plumbing fixtures and traps; soil, waste, and vent pipes; sanitary and storm sewers and building drains, including their respective connections, devices, and appurtenances within the premises; and water-treating equipment.

Poisonous or toxic materials – substances not intended for ingestion that are included in four (4) categories:

(a) Cleaners and sanitizers, including cleaning and sanitizing agents and agents such as caustics, acids, drying agents, polishes, and other chemicals;

(b) Pesticides except sanitizers, including insecticides and rodenticides;

(c) Substances necessary for the operation and maintenance of the establishment including nonfood grade lubricants and personal care items that may be deleterious to health; or

(d) Substances that are not necessary for the operation and maintenance of the establishment and are on the premises for retail sale, including petroleum products and paints.

Potentially hazardous food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food) – any of the following:

(a) A food that requires time/temperature for safety (TCS) to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation; and

(b) Foods that include:

(1) An animal food that is raw or heat-treated; a plant food that is heat- treated or consists of raw seed sprouts, cut melons, cut leafy greens, cut tomatoes or mixtures of cut tomatoes that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation, or garlic-in-oil mixtures that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation; and

(2) Except as specified in Subparagraph (c)(4) of this definition, a food that because of the interaction of its Aw and pH values is designated as Product Assessment Required (PA) in Table A or B of this definition:

Table A. Interaction of pH and Aw for control of spores in food heat-treated to destroy Vegetative cells and subsequently packaged

Aw values

pH values

4.6 or less

4.6 – 5.6

5.6

≤0.92

Non-PHF*/non-

TCS food**

Non-PHF/non-

TCS food

Non-PHF/non-

TCS food

0.92 - .95

Non-PHF/non-

TCS food

Non-PHF/non-

TCS food

PA***

0.95

Non-PHF/non-

TCS food

PA

PA

  • PHF means Potentially Hazardous Food

** TCS Food means Time/Temperature Control For Safety Food

*** PA means Product Assessment required

Table B. Interaction of pH and Aw for control of vegetative cells and spores in food not heat-treated but not packaged

Aw values

pH values

< 4.2

4.2 – 4.6

4.6 – 5.0

5.0

< 0.88

non-PHF*/non-

TCS food**

non-PHF/

non-TCS food

non-PHF/

non- TCS food

non-PHF/

non –TCS food

0.88 – 0.90

non-PHF/

non-TCS food

non-PHF/

non-TCS food

non-PHF/

non-TCS food

PA***

0.90 – 0.92

non-PHF/non-

TCS food

non-PHF/

non-TCS food

PA

PA

0.92

non-PHF/non-

TCS food

PA

PA

PA

  • PHF means Potentially Hazardous Food

** TCS Food means Time/Temperature Control For Safety Food

*** PA means Product Assessment required

(c) Potentially hazardous food (Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food) does not include:

(1) An air-cooled hard-boiled egg with shell intact, or an egg with shell intact that is not hard-boiled, but has been pasteurized to destroy all viable salmonellae;

(2) A food in an unopened hermetically sealed container that is commercially processed to achieve and maintain commercial sterility under conditions of non-refrigerated storage and distribution;

(3) A food that because of its pH or Aw value, or interaction of Aw and pH values, is designated as a non-PH/non-TCS food in Table A or B of this definition;

(4) A food that is designated as Product Assessment Required (PA) in Table A or B of this definition and has undergone a Product Assessment showing that the growth or toxin formation of pathogenic microorganisms that are reasonably likely to occur in that food is precluded due to:

(A) Intrinsic factors including added or natural characteristics of the food such as preservative, antimicrobials, humectants, acidulants, or nutrients;

(B) Extrinsic factors including environmental or operational factors that affect the food such as packaging, modified atmosphere such as reduced oxygen packaging, shelf life and use, or temperature range of storage and use; or

(C) A combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors; or

(d) A food that does not support the growth or toxin formation of pathogenic microorganisms in accordance with one of the sections specified in Subparagraphs (c)(1) through (c)(4) of this definition even though the food may contain a pathogenic microorganism or chemical or physical contaminant at a level sufficient to cause illness or injury.

Poultry – any domesticated bird such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, or guineas, ratites, or squabs, whether live or dead, as defined in 9 C.F.R. § 381.1 − Poultry Products Inspection Regulations Definitions, Poultry; and any migratory waterfowl or game bird, pheasant, partridge, quail, grouse, or pigeon, whether live or dead, as defined in 9 C.F.R. § 362.1 − Voluntary Poultry Inspection, Definitions.

Premises – the physical facility, its contents, and the contiguous land or property under the control of the licensee, or the physical facility, its contents, and the land or property if the facilities and contents are under the control of the licensee and may impact food establishment personnel, facilities, or operations, and a food establishment is only one (1) component of a larger operation such as a health care facility, hotel, motel, school, including public schools, chartered schools, private schools, recreational camp, or prison.

Primal cut – a basic, major cut into which carcasses and sides of meat are separated, including, but not limited to, beef round, pork loin, lamb flank, or veal breast.

Priority item – consists of the following:

(a) A provision in this Code whose application contributes directly to the elimination, prevention or reduction to an acceptable level, of hazards associated with foodborne illness or injury when there is no other provision that more directly controls the hazard;

(b) Items with a quantifiable measure to show control of hazards such as cooking, reheating, cooling, and handwashing; and

(c) An item that is denoted in this Code with a superscript P- P.

Priority foundation item – consists of the following:

(a) A provision in this Code where the application supports, facilitates or enables one (1) or more priority items;

(b) An item that requires the purposeful incorporation of specific actions, equipment or procedures by industry management to attain control of risk factors that contribute to foodborne illness or injury such as personnel training, infrastructure or necessary equipment, HACCP plans, documentation or recordkeeping, and labeling; and

(c) An item that is denoted in this Code with a superscript Pf- Pf.

Public water system – has the meaning stated in 40 C.F.R. § 141 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

Pull date – the date after which the food may not be sold, unless isolated and prominently labeled as being beyond the last date on which the food should be sold without a significant risk of spoilage, loss of palatability if stored by the consumer after that date and in the manner which the food can reasonably be expected to be stored.

Ratite – a flightless bird such as an emu, ostrich, or rhea.

Ready-to-eat food –

(a) Food that is:

(1) In a form that is edible without additional preparation to achieve food safety that has been prepared according to one of the following: § 900.1 or § 900.2; § 901.1, or § 903, or as specified in § 900.4; or

(2) A raw or partially cooked animal food and the consumer is advised as specified in § 900.3(a); or

(3) Prepared in accordance with a variance that is granted as specified in § 900.3(c), and

(b) Notwithstanding Subparagraph (a), ready-to-eat food may receive additional preparation for palatability or aesthetic, epicurean, gastronomic, or culinary purposes.

(c) Ready-to-eat food also includes:

(1) Raw animal food that is cooked as specified in § 900 or § 901, or frozen as specified in § 903;

(2) Raw fruits and vegetables that are washed as specified in § 806;

(3) Fruits and vegetables that are cooked for hot holding, as specified in § 902;

(4) All potentially hazardous food (time/temperature control for safety food) that is cooked to the temperature and time required for the specific food as specified in Chapter 9 and cooled as specified § 1003;

(5) Plant food for which further washing, cooking, or other processing is not required for food safety, and from which rinds, peels, husks, or shells, if naturally present are removed;

(6) Substances derived from plants such as spices, seasonings, and sugar;

(7) A bakery item such as bread, cakes, pies, fillings, or icings for which further cooking is not required for food safety;

(8) The following products that are produced in accordance with USDA guidelines and that have received a lethality treatment for pathogens: dry, fermented sausages, such as dry salami or pepperoni; salt-cured meat and poultry products, such as prosciutto ham, country cured ham, and Parma ham; and dried meat and poultry products, such as jerky or beef sticks; and

(9) Foods manufactured as specified in 21 C.F.R. part 113, Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers.

Reduced oxygen packaging – the reduction of the amount of oxygen in a package by mechanically evacuating the oxygen; displacing the oxygen with another gas or combination of gases; or otherwise controlling the oxygen content in a package to a level below that normally found in the surrounding atmosphere, twenty-one percent (21%) oxygen, and a process as specified in this definition that involves a food for which Clostridium botulinum or Listeria monosytogenes require control in the final packaged form and includes any of the following:

(a) Vacuum packaging, in which air is removed from a package of food and the package is hermetically sealed so that a vacuum remains inside the package, such as sous vide;

(b) Modified atmosphere packaging, in which the atmosphere of a package of food is modified so that its composition is different from air but the atmosphere may change over time due to the permeability of the packaging material or the respiration of the food. Modified atmosphere packaging includes reduction in the proportion of oxygen, total replacement of oxygen, and an increase in the proportion of other gases such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen;

(c) Controlled atmosphere packaging, in which the atmosphere of a packaged food is modified so that until the package is opened, its composition is different from air, and continuous control of that atmosphere is maintained, such as by using oxygen scavengers or a combination of total replacement of oxygen, non-respiring food, and impermeable packaging material;

(d) Cook chill packaging, in which cooked food is hot filled into impermeable bags which have the air expelled and are then sealed or crimped closed. The bagged food is rapidly chilled and refrigerated at temperatures that inhibit the growth of psychotropic pathogens; or

(e) Sous vide packaging, in which raw or partially cooked food is placed in a hermetically sealed, impermeable bag, cooked in the bag, rapidly chilled, and refrigerated at temperatures that inhibit the growth of psychotropic pathogens.

Refuse – solid waste not carried by water through the sewage system.

Regulatory authority – the local, state, or federal enforcement body or authorized representative having jurisdiction over the food establishment.

Residential kitchen – a kitchen in an owner-occupied home.

Restriction – Limits on the activities of a food employee so that there is no risk of transmitting a disease that is transmissible through food, including prohibiting the food employee from working with exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, linens, or wrapped single-service or single-use articles.

Restricted egg – any check, dirty egg, incubator reject, inedible, leaker, or loss as defined in 9 C.F.R. § 590.5 – Terms defined, eggs

Restricted use pesticide – a pesticide product that contains the active ingredients specified in 40 C.F.R. § 152.175 − Pesticides classified for restricted use, and that is limited to use by or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator.

Risk – the likelihood that an adverse health effect will occur within a population as a result of a hazard in a food.

Risk factors – improper practices or procedures, which have been identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through epidemiological data as the most prevalent contributing factors of foodborne illness or injury. Risk factors include any of the following:

(a) Poor personal hygiene;

(b) Food from unsafe source;

(c) Inadequate cooking;

(d) Improper holding temperatures; and

(e) Contaminated equipment.

Safe material – any of the following:

(a) An article manufactured from or composed of materials that may not reasonably be expected to result, directly or indirectly, in their becoming a component or otherwise affecting the characteristics of any food;

(b) An additive that is used as specified in § 409; or

(c) Any other material that is not an additive and that is used in conformity with applicable regulations of the FDA.

Sanitization – the application of cumulative heat or chemicals on cleaned food contact surfaces that, when evaluated for efficacy, is sufficient to yield a reduction of five (5) logs, which is equal to a ninety-nine and nine hundred - ninety-nine thousandths of a percent (99.999%) reduction of representative disease microorganisms of public health importance.

Sealed – free of cracks or other openings that allow for the entry or passage of moisture.

Service animal – an animal such as a guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Servicing area – an operating base location to which a mobile food establishment or transportation vehicle returns regularly for such things as discharging liquid or solid wastes, refilling water tanks and ice bins, and where food, food equipment, and supplies for the business are stored.

Sewage – liquid waste containing animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution and may include liquids containing chemicals in solution.

Shellstock – raw, in-shell molluscan shellfish.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) – any E. coli capable of producing Shiga toxins (also called verocytotoxins or “Shiga-like” toxins). Examples of serotypes of STEC include both O157 and non-O157 E. coli. Also see Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli.

Shucked shellfish – molluscan shellfish that have one (1) or both shells removed.

Single-service articles – tableware, carry-out utensils, and other items such as bags, containers, placemats, stirrers, straws, toothpicks, and wrappers that are designed and constructed for one-time, one-person use after which they are intended for discard.

Single-use articles – utensils and bulk food containers designed and constructed to be used once and discarded, including, but not limited to, wax paper, butcher paper, plastic wrap, formed aluminum food containers, jars, plastic tubs or buckets, bread wrappers, pickle barrels, ketchup bottles, and number ten (10) cans that do not meet the materials, durability, strength, and cleanability specifications in §§1400, 1500 and 1502 for multiuse utensils.

Slacking – the process of moderating the temperature of a food such as allowing a food to gradually increase from a temperature of -23oC (-10o F) to -4o C (25o F) in preparation for deep-fat frying or to facilitate even heat penetration during the cooking of previously block-frozen food such as shrimp.

Smooth – any of the following:

(a) A food-contact surface having a surface free of pits and inclusions with a cleanability equal to or exceeding that of one hundred (100) grit number three (3) stainless steel;

(b) A nonfood-contact surface of equipment having a surface equal to that of commercial grade hot-rolled steel free of visible scale; and

(c) A floor, wall, or ceiling having an even or level surface with no roughness or projections that renders it difficult to clean.

Snack – any non-potentially hazardous foods and pre-packaged foods that do not require preparation.

Tableware – eating, drinking, and serving utensils for table use, such as flatware including forks, knives, and spoons; hollowware including bowls, cups, serving dishes, tumblers, and plates.

Temperature measuring device – a thermometer, thermocouple, thermistor, or other device that indicates the temperature of food, air, or water.

Temporary food establishment – a food establishment that operates for a period of no more than fourteen (14) consecutive days in conjunction with a single event or celebration.

USDA – the United States Department of Agriculture.

Utensil – a food-contact implement or container used in the storage, preparation, transportation, dispensing, sale, or service of food including kitchenware or tableware that is multiuse, single-service, or single-use; gloves used in contact with food; temperature sensing probes of food temperature measuring devices; and probe-type price or identification tags used in contact with food.

Variance – a written document the Department issues which authorizes a modification or waiver of one (1) or more requirements of this Code if, in the Department’s opinion, a health hazard or nuisance will not result from the modification or waiver.

Vending machine – a self-service device, that upon insertion of a coin, paper currency, token, card, or key, or by optional manual operation, dispenses unit servings of food in bulk or in packages without the necessity of replenishing the device between each vending operation.

Vending machine location – the room, enclosure, space, or area where one (1) or more vending machines are installed and operated and includes the storage areas and areas on the premises that are used to service and maintain the vending machines.

“V” type threads – a non-sanitary, non-cleanable industrial thread.

Warewashing – the cleaning and sanitizing of utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment.

Whole-muscle, intact beef – whole muscle beef that is not injected, mechanically tenderized, reconstructed, or scored and marinated, from which beef steaks may be cut.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 50 DCR 4394 (June 6, 2003); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 59 DCR 13690 (November 30, 2012).

25-B FOOD PROCESSING OPERATIONS CODE

25-B1 TITLE, INTENT, SCOPE

25-B DCMR § 100 TITLE - FOOD PROCESSING OPERATIONS CODE

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Food Processing Operations Code, hereinafter referred to as "this Code."

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 101 INTENT - FOOD SAFETY, SANITATION

101.1 The purpose of this Code is to provide food safety and sanitation requirements for food processing operations. These requirements will safeguard public health by:

(a) Ensuring that food products are safe and unadulterated as defined in section 402(a)(3) and (4) of the Federal Food Act and section 3 of An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898 (30 Stat. 248; D.C. Official Code § 48-103);

(b) Protecting the consuming public from products that have been produced under unsanitary conditions; and

(c) Ensuring that shellfish is processed in a safe and sanitary manner

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 102 SCOPE - STATEMENT

102.1 This Code establishes definitions; sets quality control standards for personnel, health, sanitary operations, equipment, facilities, and food processing methods; provides for the issuance of licenses and certifications, inspections, and employee restrictions; and provides for enforcement through suspension and revocation of licenses and certifications, embargo and condemnation of foods and equipment, and fines and penalties.

102.2 Subtitle H of this Code establishes a shellfish safety and sanitation program that regulates shellfish processing procedures and facilities; product labeling of shellfish; storage, handling and packing of shellfish; shellfish shipment in interstate commerce; and shellfish dealers pursuant to the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP).

102.3 Certain provisions of this Code are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is more likely to contribute to food contamination, illness, or an environmental health hazard. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

102.4 Certain provisions of this Code are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to contribute to food contamination, illness, or environmental degradation. A part that is denoted in the Code without an asterisk (*) after the headnote is a noncritical item. A part designated as a critical item may have a provision within the part designated as a noncritical item. This is indicated by a superscripted letter "N" following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING

25-B DCMR § 200 SUPERVISORS - QUALIFICATION, ASSIGNMENT & POSTING*

200.1 The licensee shall ensure that supervisors meet the training, certification, and registration requirements in this chapter and in the federal regulations identified in this chapter.

200.2 The licensee shall ensure that supervisors responsible for preventing sanitation failures or food contamination have an educational background or experience, or a combination thereof, in FDA and USDA good manufacturing practice for the safe manufacturing, processing, and packing processes of acidified foods and thermally processed low-acid foods in hermetically sealed containers.

200.3 The licensee shall ensure that supervisors involved in thermal processing systems, acidification, and container closure evaluation programs for low- acid and acidified canned foods are certified by an FDA and USDA approved institution.

200.4 The licensee shall ensure that supervisors who are certified as specified in section 200.3 are also registered with the FDA as qualified food canning supervisors.

200.5 The licensee shall ensure that all food employees involved in acidification, ph control, heat treatment, or other critical factors of a food processing operation are under the direct supervision of a person who:

(a) Has satisfactorily completed the required training specified in section 200.2 and the following federal regulations:

(1) 9 CFR 318.310 - Personnel and training;

(2) 9 CFR 381.310 - Personnel and training;

(3) 21 CFR 108.25 (f) - Acidified foods;

(4) 21 CFR 108.35 (g) - Thermal processing of low-acid foods packaged in hermetically sealed containers;

(5) 21 CFR 113.10 - Personnel;

(6) 21 CFR 114.10 - Personnel; and

(b) Has received training in food-handling techniques, food protection principles, personal hygiene, and plant sanitation practices as specified in section 200.7.

200.6 Supervisors who are certified and registered with the FDA as required under sections 200.3 and 200.4 shall supervise only in areas in which they are certified. A food processing operation shall have supervisors certified in all relevant food processing activities on the premises at all times when such activities are being conducted.

200.7 Supervisors who are certified and registered with the FDA as required under sections 200.3 and 200.4 shall be knowledgeable in the following areas:

(a) The relationship between the prevention of foodborne disease and the personal hygiene of a food employee;

(b) The responsibility of supervisors for preventing the transmission of foodborne disease by a food employee who has an illness or medical condition that may cause a foodborne disease;

(c) Symptoms associated with the diseases that are transmissible through food;

(d) The relationship between the prevention of foodborne illness and the management and control of the following:

(1) Cross contamination;

(2) Hand contact with ready-to-eat foods;

(3) Handwashing; and

(4) Maintaining the food processing operation in a clean condition and in good repair;

(e) The correct procedures for cleaning and sanitizing equipment, utensils and food-contact surfaces;

(f) Poisonous or toxic materials identification and the procedures necessary to ensure that these materials are safely stored, dispensed, used, and disposed of in accordance with applicable District law;

(g) Important processing points in the food processing operation from purchasing through sale or service;

(h) The principles and details of an HACCP plan, if used or required by District or federal laws or regulations or under an agreement between the Department and the licensee; and

(i) Water source identification and measures to be taken to ensure that water sources remain protected from contamination, such as providing protection from backflow and precluding the creation of cross- connections.

200.8 Documentation that a supervisor is certified and registered with the FDA as required under sections 200.3 and 200.4 shall be conspicuously posted in the food processing operation next to the food processing operation's District- issued license. This documentation shall be removed when the individual is no longer employed on-site by the food processing operation.

200.9 All supervisors of food processing operations required to be certified and registered by the FDA under section 200.3 and 200.4 shall obtain an identification card, issued by the Department, which shall be renewed every two (2) years.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 201 DUTIES - SUPERVISORS

201.1 Supervisors shall ensure that persons unnecessary to plant operations are not allowed in areas used for food operations, except that brief visits and tours may be authorized by supervisors if steps are taken to ensure that exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials are protected from contamination.

201.2 Supervisors shall ensure that food employees and other persons, such as delivery and maintenance persons and pesticide applicators, entering areas used for food operations comply with this Code.

201.3 Supervisors shall ensure that food employees are effectively cleaning their hands by routinely monitoring the employees' handwashing to ensure compliance with sections 401, 402, and 403.

201.4 Supervisors shall ensure that food employees are visibly observing food and food shipments as they are received to determine that they are from approved sources, delivered at the required temperatures, protected from contamination, unadulterated, honestly presented, and accurately labeled by routinely monitoring the employees' observations and periodically evaluating food and food shipments upon their receipt, storage, handling, packing, transportation, sale, and distribution.

201.5 Supervisors shall ensure that food employees are properly sanitizing cleaned multiuse equipment and utensils before they are reused, through routine monitoring of solution temperature and exposure time for hot water sanitizing, and chemical concentration, pH, temperature, and exposure time for chemical sanitizing.

201.6 Supervisors shall take every reasonable measure and precaution to ensure compliance with 21 CFR 110.10 - Personnel, and this Code, and that food employees are properly trained in food safety as it relates to their assigned duties.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B3 EMPLOYEE HEALTH

25-B DCMR § 300 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - RESPONSIBILITY OF FOOD EMPLOYEES AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES TO REPORT SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS*

300.1 The licensee shall require food employees and conditional employees to report to their supervisors, in accordance with this section, information about their health and activities as they relate to diseases that are transmissible through food.

300.2 A food employee or conditional employee shall report the information in a manner that allows the supervisor to reduce the risk of foodborne disease transmission, including providing necessary additional information, such as the date of onset of symptoms of an illness or of a diagnosis without symptoms.

300.3 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to his or her supervisor when he or she has any of the following symptoms:

(a) Vomiting;

(b) Diarrhea;

(c) Jaundice;

(d) Sore throat with fever; or

(e) A lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and is:

(1) On the hands or wrists, unless an impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall protects the lesion and a single-use glove is worn over the impermeable cover;

(2) On exposed portions of the arms, unless the lesion is protected by an impermeable cover; or

(3) On other parts of the body, unless the lesion is covered by a dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage.

300.4 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to his or her supervisor if he or she has an illness diagnosed by a licensed physician due to:

(a) Norovirus;

(b) Hepatitis A virus;

(c) Shigella spp.;

(d) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli; or

(e) Salmonella Typhi.

300.5 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to his or her supervisor if he or she had a previous illness, diagnosed by a licensed physician, within the past three (3) months due to Salmonella Typhi, without having received antibiotic therapy.

300.6 A food employee or conditional employee shall report to his or her supervisor if he or she has been exposed to, or is the suspected source of, a confirmed disease outbreak involving one of the diseases specified in section 300.4, because the food employee or conditional employee:

(a) Consumed or prepared food implicated in the outbreak;

(b) Consumed food at an event prepared by a person who is infected or ill with the disease;

(c) Was exposed by attending or working in a setting where there is a confirmed disease outbreak;

(d) Is living in the same household as an individual who works in or attends a setting where there is a confirmed disease outbreak, and the employee has knowledge of that person's exposure; or

(e) Is living in the same household as an individual diagnosed with an illness and has knowledge of the diagnosis.

300.7 A food employee or conditional employee shall make the report required under section 300.6 if the exposure was to:

(a) Norovirus and the most recent exposure occurred within the past forty- eight (48) hours;

(b) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli, or Shigella spp. and the most recent exposure occurred within the past three (3) days;

(c) Salmonella Typhi and the most recent exposure occurred within the past fourteen (14) days; or

(d) Hepatitis A virus and the most recent exposure occurred within thirty (30) days.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 301 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - RESPONSIBILITY OF SUPERVISOR TO REPORT SPECIFIC ILLNESS OF FOOD EMPLOYEE TO THE DEPARTMENT

301.1 A supervisor shall notify the Department when a food employee is:

(a) Jaundiced; or

(b) Diagnosed with an illness due to a pathogen specified in section 300.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 302 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - RESPONSIBILITY OF SUPERVISOR TO PROHIBIT A CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE WITH A SPECIFIC ILLNESS FROM BECOMING A FOOD EMPLOYEE

302.1 A supervisor shall ensure that a conditional employee who exhibits or reports a symptom, or reports a diagnosed illness as specified in sections 300.3 through 300.5, is prohibited from becoming a food employee until the conditional employee satisfies the requirements for reinstatement associated with specific symptoms or diagnosed illnesses specified in section 307.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 303 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - RESPONSIBILITY OF SUPERVISOR TO EXCLUDE OR RESTRICT ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES*

303.1 A supervisor shall ensure that a food employee who exhibits or reports a symptom or who reports a diagnosed illness as specified in sections 300.3 through 300.5 is:

(a) Excluded as specified in sections 305, except as provided in section 307; or

(b) Restricted as specified in section 306, except as provided in section 307.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 304 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION RESPONSIBILITY OF FOOD EMPLOYEES TO COMPLY WITH EXCLUSIONS OR RESTRICTIONS

304.1 A food employee shall comply with:

(a) An exclusion imposed pursuant to section 305, unless reinstated pursuant to section 307; or

(b) A restriction imposed pursuant to section 306, unless reinstated pursuant to section 307.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 305 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - CONDITIONS REQUIRING EXCLUSION OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

305.1 A supervisor shall exclude a food employee from a food processing operation if the food employee is:

(a) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea; or

(b) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea and diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus, Shigella spp., or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli.

305.2 A supervisor shall exclude a food employee who is:

(a) Jaundiced and the onset of jaundice occurred within the last seven (7) calendar days, unless the food employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician specifying that the jaundice is not caused by hepatitis A virus or other fecal-orally transmitted infection;

(b) Diagnosed with an infection from hepatits A virus within fourteen (14) calendar days after the onset of any illness symptoms, or within seven (7) calendar days after the onset of jaundice; or

(c) Diagnosed with an infection from hepatitis A virus without developing symptoms.

305.3 A supervisor shall exclude a food employee who is diagnosed with an infection from Salmonella Typhi, or reports a previous infection with Salmonella Typhi within the past three (3) months without having received antibiotic therapy.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 306 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION - CONDITIONS REQUIRING RESTRICTION OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES

306.1 If a food employee is diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus, Shigella spp., or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli, and is asymptomatic, a supervisor shall restrict the food employee.

306.2 If a food employee is ill with symptoms of acute onset of sore throat with fever, a supervisor shall restrict the food employee.

306.3 A supervisor shall restrict a food employee who is infected with a skin lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and not properly covered as specified in section 300.3(e).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 307 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION RESPONSIBILITY OF SUPERVISOR TO REMOVE, ADJUST, OR RETAIN EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS OF ILL FOOD EMPLOYEES*

307.1 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was excluded under section 305.1(a) for being symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea if the food employee:

(a) Is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours; or

(b) Provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the symptom is from a noninfectious condition.

307.2 If a food employee was diagnosed with an infection from Norovirus and excluded under section 305.1(b), a supervisor may restrict the food employee after he or she has been asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours, and may reinstate the food employee after the conditions for reinstatement specified in sections 307.6 have been met.

307.3 If a food employee was diagnosed with an infection from Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli and excluded under section 305.1(b), a supervisor may restrict the food employee after he or she has been asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours, and may reinstate the food employee after the conditions for reinstatement specified in sections 307.7 have been met; or

307.4 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was excluded due to jaundice or a diagnosis of hepatitis A under section 305.2 if the supervisor obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The food employee has been jaundiced for more than seven (7) calendar days;

(b) The anicteric food employee has had symptoms other than jaundice for more than fourteen (14) calendar days; or

(c) The food employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee is free of a hepatitis A virus infection.

307.5 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was excluded for Salmonella Typhi under section 305.3 if

(a) The supervisor obtains approval from the Department; and

(b) The food employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee is free from Salmonella Typhi infection.

307.6 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was excluded under section 305.1(b) or restricted under section 306.1 or 307.2 for Norovirus if the supervisor obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The excluded or restricted employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee is free of Norovirus infection;

(b) The food employee was restricted after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea resolved, and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the food employee became asymptomatic; or

(c) The food employee was restricted and did not develop symptoms and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the food employee was diagnosed.

307.7 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was excluded under section 305.1(b) or restricted under section 306.1 or 307.3 for Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli if the supervisor obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The excluded or restricted food employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee is free of a Shigella spp. or Entrohemorrahgic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli infection based on test results showing two (2) consecutive negative stool specimen cultures that are taken:

(1) Not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours after discontinuance of antibiotics, and

(2) At least twenty-four (24) hours apart;

(b) The food employee was restricted after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea resolved, and more than seven (7) calendar days have passed since the food employee became asymptomatic; or

(c) The food employee was restricted and did not develop symptoms and more than seven (7) calendar days have passed since the food employee was diagnosed.

307.8 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was restricted under section 306.2 for sore throat with fever if the food employee provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the food employee meets one (1) of the following conditions:

(a) Has received antibiotic therapy for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection for more than twenty-four (24) hours;

(b) Has at least one negative throat specimen culture for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection; or

(c) Is otherwise determined by a licensed physician to be free of a Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection.

307.9 A supervisor may reinstate a food employee who was restricted as specified in section 306.3 if the skin, infected wound, cut, or pustular boil is properly covered with one (1) of the following:

(a) An impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall and a single-use glove over the impermeable cover if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the hand, finger, or wrist;

(b) An impermeable cover on the arm if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the arm; or

(c) A dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage if the infected wound or pustular boil is on another part of the body.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B4 PERSONAL CLEANLINESS AND HYGIENIC PRACTICES OF FOOD EMPLOYEES

25-B DCMR § 400 HANDS AND ARMS - CLEAN CONDITION*

400.1 Food employees shall keep their hands and exposed portions of their arms clean.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 401 HANDS AND ARMS - CLEANING PROCEDURE*

401.1 Except as specified in section 401.4, food employees shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms, including surrogate prosthetic devices for hands or arms, for at least twenty (20) seconds, using a cleaning compound in a handwashing sink that is equipped as specified in sections 1402 and 1900 through 1906.

401.2 Food employees shall use the following cleaning procedure in the order stated to clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms, including surrogate prosthetic devices for hands and arms:

(a) Rinse under clean, running warm water;

(b) Apply an amount of cleaning compound recommended by the cleaning compound manufacturer;

(c) Rub together vigorously for at least ten (10) to fifteen (15) seconds while:

(1) Paying particular attention to removing soil from underneath the fingernails during the cleaning procedure, and

(2) Creating friction on the surfaces of the hands and arms or surrogate prosthetic devices for hands and arms, finger tips, and areas between the fingers;

(d) Thoroughly rinse under clean, running warm water;

(e) Immediately follow the cleaning procedure with thorough drying using a method specified in section 1903; and

(f) Sanitize hands when appropriate in addition to, but not in place of, the proper handwashing methods.

401.3 To avoid recontaminating their hands or surrogate prosthetic devices, food employees may use disposable paper towels or similar clean barriers when touching surfaces such as manually operated faucet handles on a handwashing sink or the handle of a restroom door.

401.4 If approved and capable of removing the types of soils encountered in the food operations involved, food employees may use an automatic handwashing facility to clean their hands or surrogate prosthetic devices.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 402 HANDS AND ARMS - WHEN TO WASH*

402.1 Food employees shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms as specified in section 401 immediately before working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials, and:

(a) After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean, exposed portions of arms;

(b) After using the toilet room;

(c) After coughing, sneezing, using a handkerchief or disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating, or drinking;

(d) After handling soiled surfaces, equipment, or utensils;

(e) During food preparation, as often as necessary to remove soil and contamination and to prevent cross-contamination when changing tasks;

(f) After each absence from the work station;

(g) Immediately before touching ready-to-eat food or food-contact surfaces;

(h) When switching between working with raw food and working with ready-to-eat food;

(i) Before donning gloves for working with food; and

(j) After engaging in other activities that contaminate the hands.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 403 HANDS AND ARMS - WHERE TO WASH

403.1 Food employees shall clean their hands in a handwashing sink or approved automatic handwashing facility and shall not clean their hands in a sink used for food preparation or warewashing, or in a service sink or a curbed cleaning facility used for the disposal of mop water or similar liquid waste.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 404 HANDS AND ARMS - HAND ANTISEPTICS

404.1 A hand antiseptic used as a topical application, a hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip, or a hand antiseptic soap shall:

(a) Comply with one of the following:

(1) Be an approved drug that is listed in the FDA publication Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations based on safety and effectiveness; or

(2) Have active antimicrobial ingredients that are listed in the FDA monograph for OTC (over-the-counter) Health-Care Antiseptic Drug Products as an antiseptic handwash;

(b) Comply with one of the following:

(1) Have components that are exempt from the requirements of being listed in the federal food additive regulations as specified in 21 CFR 170.39- Threshold of regulation for substances used in food-contact articles;

(2) Comply with and be listed in 21 CFR Part 178- Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants: Production Aids, and Sanitizers; or

(3) Comply with and be listed in 21 CFR Part 182 - Substances Generally Recognized as Safe, 21 CFR Part 184 - Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe, or 21 CFR Part 186 - Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe; and

(c) Be applied only to hands that are cleaned as specified in section 401.

404.2 If a hand antiseptic or a hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip does not meet the criteria specified in section 404.1(b), use shall be:

(a) Followed by thorough hand rinsing in clean water before hand contact with food or by the use of gloves; or

(b) Limited to employees working in situations that involve no direct contact with food by the bare hands.

404.3 A hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip shall be maintained clean and at a strength equivalent to at least one hundred parts per million of chlorine (100 ppm chlorine) or twenty-five parts per million of iodine (25 ppm iodine) and changed every four (4) hours while in use.

404.4 A hand antiseptic solution used as a hand dip or a hand sanitizing station shall be provided and properly positioned and maintained in all food operations where food would normally undergo washing, cleaning, cooking or other processing activities.

404.5 Food employees shall have ready access to hand sanitizing stations when returning from toilet facilities, handwashing facilities, lunch and breaks, and whenever necessary while working.

404.6 Food operations shall provide at least one (1) hand sanitizing station:

(a) Inside entryways of food processing areas; and

(b) On each side of food processing tables, lines and equipment where food is being manipulated by hand; and

(c) For every ten (10) food employees at food processing tables, lines and equipment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 405 HANDS AND ARMS - FINGERNAIL MAINTENANCE

405.1 All persons working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food- contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials shall keep their fingernails trimmed, filed, and maintained so that the edges and surfaces are cleanable and not rough.

405.2 Unless wearing intact gloves in good repair, a food employee may not wear fingernail polish or artificial fingernails when working with exposed food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 406 HANDS AND ARMS - JEWELRY PROHIBITION

406.1 Persons working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials shall not wear jewelry, including medical information jewelry on their arms and hands, except for a plain ring such as a wedding band.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 407 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION- OUTER CLOTHING, CLEAN CONDITION

407.1 All persons working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials shall wear clean and protective clothing that is:

(a) Clean at the start of the work shift;

(b) Changed when the clothing becomes so soiled during the course of the work shift that contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food- contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials becomes imminent; and

(c) Suitable to the specific food processing operation for protection against the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 408 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION - EATING, DRINKING, USING TOBACCO, FOREIGN SUBSTANCES*

408.1 Persons working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials shall not eat, drink, chew gum, or use any form of tobacco, except in designated areas where food, food processing equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces or food-packing materials are not exposed, and where equipment or utensils are not washed or stored.

408.2 All persons working in direct contact with food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials shall take all necessary precautions to protect against the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials with microorganisms or foreign substances including, but not limited to, the following:

(a) Perspiration;

(b) Hair;

(c) Cosmetics;

(d) Tobacco;

(e) Chemicals; or

(f) Medicines applied to the skin.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 409 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION - DISCHARGES FROM THE EYES, NOSE, AND MOUTH*

409.1 Food employees experiencing persistent sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose that causes a discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth shall not work with exposed food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 410 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION - HAIR RESTRAINTS, EFFECTIVENESS

410.1 Food employees shall wear clean and effective hair restraints, such as hairnets or beard nets, if appropriate, and clothing that covers body hair and is designed and worn to effectively keep hair from contacting exposed food, clean equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packing materials. Hats, caps, scarves or other head covers are acceptable if the hair is contained to protect from contamination. Hair spray and tying back the hair in a ponytail are not effective hair restraints.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 411 FOOD CONTAMINATION PREVENTION - ANIMALS, PROHIBITION ON HANDLING*

411.1 Food employees shall not care for or handle animals that may be present in the food processing operation, such as patrol dogs, or service animals that are allowed as specified in section 2012.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B5 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL LAWS

25-B DCMR § 500 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL LAWS

500.1 The most current versions of the following federal regulations are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) 7 CFR 57.200 - Part 57 - Inspection of Eggs (Egg Products Inspection Act), Subpart A - Regulations Governing the Inspection of Eggs, Records and related requirements;

(b) 9 CFR 317.24 - Part 317 - Labeling, Marking Devices, and Containers, Subpart A - General, Packaging Materials;

(c) 9 CFR 317.345 - Part 317 - Labeling, Marking Devices, and Containers, Subpart B - Nutrition Labeling, Guidelines for voluntary nutrition labeling of single ingredient, raw products;

(d) 9 CFR 318.310 - Part 318 - Entry into Official Establishments: Reinspection and Preparation of Products, Subpart G - Canning and Canned Products, Personnel and training;

(e) 9 CFR 381.310 - Part 381 - Poultry Products Inspection Regulations, Subpart X - Canning and Canned Products, Personnel and training;

(f) 9 CFR 590.200 - Part 590 - Inspection of Eggs and Egg Products (Egg Products Inspection Act), Records and related requirements;

(g) 9 CFR 590.905 - Part 590 - Inspection of Eggs and Egg Products (Egg Products Inspection Act), Importation of restricted eggs or eggs containing more restricted eggs than permitted in the official standards for U.S. Consumer Grade B;

(h) 16 CFR 502.3 - Part 502 - Regulations Under Section 5(C) of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act, Prohibited acts;

(i) 21 CFR 1.225 - Part 1 - General Enforcement Regulations, Subpart H - Registration of Food Facilities, Who must register under this subpart?;

(j) 21 CFR 7.3 - Part 7 - Enforcement Policy, Subpart A - General Provisions, Definitions;

(k) 21 CFR 7.42 - Part 7 - Enforcement Policy, Subpart C - Recalls (Including Product Corrections) - Guidance on Policy, Procedures, and Industry Responsibilities, Recall strategy;

(l) 21 CFR 11.10 - Part 11 - Electronic Records; Electronic Signatures, Subpart B - Electronic Records, Controls for closed systems;

(m) 21 CFR 101.3 - Part 101 - Food Labeling, Subpart A - General Provisions, Identity labeling of food in packaged form;

(n) 21 CFR 107.230 - Part 107 - Infant Formula, Subpart E - Infant Formula Recalls, Elements of an infant formula recall;

(o) 21 CFR 108.25 (f) - Part 108 - Emergency Permit Control, Subpart B - Specific Requirements and Conditions for Exemption From or Compliance With an Emergency Permit, Acidified foods;

(p) 21 CFR 108.35 (g) - Part 108 - Emergency Permit Control, Subpart B - Specific Requirements and Conditions for Exemption From or Compliance With an Emergency Permit, Thermal processing of low- acid foods packaged in hermetically sealed containers;

(q) 21 CFR 110.5 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart A - General Provisions, Current good manufacturing practice;

(r) 21 CFR 110.10 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart A - General Provisions, Personnel;

(s) 21 CFR 110.20 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart B - Buildings and Facilities, Plant and grounds;

(t) 21 CFR 110.35 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart B - Buildings and Facilities, Sanitary operations;

(u) 21 CFR 110.37 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart B - Building and Facilities, Sanitary facilities and controls;

(v) 21 CFR 110.40 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart C - Equipment, Equipment and utensils;

(w) 21 CFR 110.80 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart E - Production and Process Controls, Processes and controls;

(x) 21 CFR 110.93 - Part 110 - Current Good Manufacturing Practice in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food, Subpart E - Production and Process Controls, Warehousing and distribution;

(y) 21 CFR 113.5 - Part 113 - Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers, Subpart A - General Provisions, Current good manufacturing practice;

(z) 21 CFR 113.10 - Part 113 - Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers, Subpart A - General Provisions, Personnel;

(aa) 21 CFR 113.100 - Part 113 - Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers, Subpart F - Records and Reports, Processing and production records;

(bb) 21 CFR 114.5 - Part 114 - Acidified Foods, Subpart A - General Provisions, Current good manufacturing practice;

(cc) 21 CFR 114.10 - Part 114 - Acidified Foods, Subpart A - General Provisions, Personnel;

(dd) 21 CFR 114.100 -Part 114 - Acidified Foods, Subpart F - Records and Reports, Records;

(ee) 21 CFR 115.50 - Part 115 - Shell Eggs, Refrigeration of shell eggs held for retail distribution;

(ff) 21 CFR Part 123 - Fish and Fishery Products;

(gg) 21 CFR 129.1 - Part 129 - Processing and Bottling of Bottled Drinking Water, Subpart A - General Provisions, Current good manufacturing practice;

(hh) 21 CFR 130.10 - Part 130 - Food Standards: General, Subpart A - General Provisions, Requirements for foods named by use of a nutrient content claim and a standardized term;

(ii) 21 CFR 161.130 - Part 161 - Fish and Shellfish, Subpart B - Requirements for Specific Standardized Fish and Shellfish, Oysters;

(jj) 21 CFR 165.110 - Part 165 - Beverages, Subpart B - Requirements for Specific Standardized Beverages, Bottled water;

(kk) 21 CFR 170.19 - Part 170 - Food Additives, Subpart A - General Provisions, Pesticide chemicals in processed foods;

(11) 21 CFR 170.22 - Part 170 - Food Additives, Subpart B - Food Additive Safety, Safety factors to be considered;

(mm) 21 CFR Part 170.30 - Part 170 - Food Additives, Subpart B - Food Additive Safety, Eligibility for classification as generally recognized as safe (GRAS);

(nn) 21 CFR 170.39- Part 170 - Food Additives, Subpart B - Food Additive Safety, Threshold of regulation for substances used in food- contact articles

(oo) 21 CFR 173.310 - Part 173 - Secondary Direct Food Additives Permitted in Food for Human Consumption, Subpart D - Specific Usage Additives, Boiler water additives;

(pp) 21 CFR 173.315 - Part 173 - Secondary Direct Food Additives Permitted in Food for Human Consumption, Subpart D - Specific Usage Additives, Chemicals used in washing or to assist in the peeling of fruits and vegetables;

(qq) 21 CFR 174.5 - Part 174 - Indirect Food Additives: General, General provisions applicable to indirect food additives;

(rr) 21 CFR 174.6 - Part 174 - Indirect Food Additives: General, Threshold of regulation for substances used in food-contact articles;

(ss) 21 CFR Part 175 - Indirect Food Additives: Adhesives and Components of Coatings;

(tt) 21 CFR Part 176 - Indirect Food Additives: Paper and Paperboard Components;

(uu) 21 CFR Part 177 - Indirect Food Additives: Polymers;

(vv) 21 CFR Part 178 - Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Production Aids, and Sanitizers;

(ww) 21 CFR 178.1010 - Part 178 - Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Production Aids, and Sanitizers, Subpart B - Substances Utilized to Control the Growth of Microorganisms, Sanitizing solutions;

(xx) 21 CFR 178.3570 - Part 178 - Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Production Aids, and Sanitizers, Subpart D - Certain Adjuvants and Production Aids, Lubricants with incidental food contact;

(yy) 21 CFR Part 181 - Prior-Sanctioned Food Ingredients;

(zz) 21 CFR 181.22 - Part 181 - Prior-Sanctioned Food Ingredients, Subpart B - Specific Prior-Sanctioned Food Ingredients, Certain substances employed in the manufacture of food-packaging materials;

(aaa) 21 CFR Part 182 - Substances Generally Recognized as Safe;

(bbb) 21 CFR Part 184 - Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe;

(ccc) 21 CFR Part 186 - Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe;

(ddd) 40 CFR Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations;

(eee) 40 CFR 142.2 - Part 142 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations Implementation, Subpart A — General Provisions, Definitions;

(fff) 40 CFR 152.170 - Part 152 - Pesticide Registration and Classification Procedures, Subpart I - Classification of Pesticides, Criteria for restriction to use by certified applicators.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B6 FOOD REQUIREMENTS

25-B DCMR § 600 CONDITION OF FOOD*

600.1 Food and food ingredients processed in a food processing operation shall be:

(a) Safe for human consumption;

(b) Clean;

(c) Free of spoilage;

(d) From an approved source; and

(e) Generally recognized as safe (GRAS).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 601 ADULTERATED FOOD

601.1 Adulterated food shall not be offered as food to human beings.

601.2 Adulterated food that is not for rework to ensure safety, wholesomeness, and proper labeling shall be:

(a) Destroyed or diverted to non-food uses; and

(b) When within a food processing operation, stored only in a designated area, as specified in section 1912, that is:

(1) Separated from all other food, equipment, utensils, food- contact surfaces, food-packaging materials, and food operations; and

(2) Conspicuously marked as an area for distressed merchandise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 602 IMPORTED MANUFACTURED OR PROCESSED FOOD

602.1 Manufacturers, processors, and packers that import food for human consumption into the District, or operators of storage facilities that hold food for human or animal consumption in the District shall be registered with the FDA in accordance with 21 CFR 1.225 - Who must register under this subpart?

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B7 UNIT PROCESSING OPERATIONS, PROCESSING FOOD FOR SAFETY

25-B DCMR § 700 PRODUCTION AND PROCESS CONTROLS

700.1 Food shall be manufactured, processed, and packaged in accordance with this chapter.

700.2 Acidified foods shall be manufactured, processed, and packaged in a manner that prevents adulteration in accordance with 21 CFR 114.5 - Current good manufacturing practice.

700.3 Thermally processed low-acid foods shall be manufactured, processed and packaged so as to meet the criteria referenced in 21 CFR 113.5 - Current good manufacturing practice.

700.4 Records and reports shall be completed and maintained for acidified foods in accordance with 21 CFR 114.100 - Records; and for low acid foods in accordance with 21 CFR 113.100 - Records.

700.5 If a processor makes an electronic record of pH with respect to acidified foods by connection of the pH meter to a computer or by manually keying the pH values into a computer as the primary record, then that record shall be subject to 21 CFR 11.10 - Controls for closed systems.

700.6 Complete records covering all aspects of the establishment of the process and associated incubation tests for acidified foods shall be prepared and permanently retained by the person or organization making the determination.

700.7 Records that document compliance with this chapter shall be:

(a) Maintained on site; and

(b) Available for inspection by the Department in accordance with section 3200.2(d).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 701 RAW MATERIALS AND OTHER INGREDIENTS

701.1 General production and processing of raw materials and other food ingredients shall be conducted so as to meet the criteria referenced in 21 CFR 110.5 - Current good manufacturing practice.

701.2 The handling and storage of raw materials and other ingredients and rework shall be performed in accordance with 21 CFR 110.80(a) - Processes and controls.

701.3 The control of contaminants in raw materials and other food ingredients shall be accomplished in accordance with 21 CFR 110.80(a) - Processes and controls.

701.4 Food shall contain only approved food additives or additives that are within permissible limits as specified in 21 CFR 170.19 - Pesticide chemicals in processed foods; 21 CFR 170.22 - Safety factors to be considered; 21 CFR 170.30 - Eligibility for classification as generally recognized as safe (GRAS); 21 CFR Part 181 - Prior Sanctioned Food Ingredients; 21 CFR Part 182 - Substances Generally Recognized as Safe; 21 CFR Part 184 - Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe; or 21 CFR Part 186 - Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 702 SHELL EGGS AND EGG PRODUCTS

702.1 All persons engaged in the business of transporting, shipping, receiving any eggs or egg products, or holding such articles so received, and all egg handlers, shall maintain records on a form provided by the Department showing the receipt, delivery, sale, movement, and disposition of all eggs and egg products in accordance with 7 CFR Part 57.200 - Records and related requirements; 9 CFR 590.905 - Importation of restricted eggs or eggs containing more restricted eggs than permitted in the official standards for U.S. Consumer Grade B; and 21 CFR 115.50 - Refrigeration of shell eggs held for retail distribution.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 703 FISH AND FISHERY PRODUCTS

703.1 Fish and fishery products shall be processed in accordance with the requirements referenced in 21 CFR Part 123 - Fish and Fishery Products, and subtitle H of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 704 HACCP PLAN REQUIREMENTS

704.1 When a food processing operation is required under section 3002 to submit an HACCP Plan to the Department, the plan and specifications shall contain:

(a) A flow diagram by specific food processing method identifying critical control points and providing information on the following:

(1) Ingredients, materials, and equipment used in the food production; and

(2) Formulations that delineate methods and procedural control measures used to address the food safety concerns involved;

(b) A food employee and supervisory training plan that addresses food safety issues;

(c) A statement of standard operating procedures for the plan under consideration, including clearly identifying:

(1) Each critical control point;

(2) The critical limits for each critical control point;

(3) The method and frequency for monitoring and controlling each critical control point by the food employee designated by supervisory personnel;

(4) The method and frequency for supervisors to routinely verify that the food employee is following standard operating procedures and monitoring critical control points;

(5) Actions to be taken by supervisors if the critical limits for each critical control point are not met; and

(6) Records to be maintained by supervisors to demonstrate that the HACCP Plan is properly operated and managed.

704.2 A HACCP Plan required under section 3002 shall comply with the requirements of section 801.2 or chapter 25, as applicable, and this section.

704.3 The HACCP Plan shall be signed and dated, either by the most responsible individual on site at the food processing operation, or by a higher-level official of the licensee or dealer. This signature shall signify that the licensee or dealer has accepted the HACCP Plan for implementation.

704.4 The HACCP Plan shall be signed and dated upon:

(a) Initial acceptance;

(b) Any modification; and

(c) Verification of the HACCP Plan.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B8 PACKAGING FOOD AND FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS

25-B DCMR § 800 PACKAGING FOOD - SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

800.1 A certified supervisor shall ensure that food packaging is:

(a) Designed and installed to maintain food safety and integrity;

(b) Made from materials that:

(1) Are safe;

(2) Are appropriate for the intended use;

(3) Will not migrate to or be absorbed by food; and

(4) Comply with the FDA requirements stated in 21 CFR 174.5 - General provisions applicable to indirect food additives; 21 CFR 174.6 - Threshold of regulation for substances used in food- contact articles; 21 CFR 178.1010 - Sanitizing solutions; and 21 CFR 178.3570 - Lubricants with incidental food contact; and

(c) Evaluated before use for characteristics that may impact the food, such as permeability to:

(1) Water and water vapor;

(2) Oxygen; and (3) Other gases.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 801 PACKAGING FOOD - REQUIREMENTS

801.1 A food processing operation that packages food using a reduced oxygen packaging method, with Clostridium botulinum identified as the target organism for destruction in the final packaged form shall in addition to modifying the oxygen content use at least two (2) of the following barriers: refrigeration, pH, or water activity to control the growth and toxin formation of Clostridium botulinum.

801.2 A food processing operation that packages food using a reduced oxygen packaging method with Clostridium botulinum identified as a microbiological hazard in the final packaged form, shall have a HACCP plan that complies with the requirements of section 704 and:

(a) Contains a flow diagram by specific food or category type identifying critical control points and providing information on the following:

(1) Ingredients, materials, and equipment used in the preparation of that food; and

(2) Formulations or recipes that delineate methods and procedural control measures that address the food safety concerns involved;

(b) Contains a statement of standard operating procedures for the plan that clearly identifies the following:

(1) Each critical control point;

(2) The critical limits for each critical control point;

(3) The method and frequency for monitoring and controlling each critical control point by the food employee designated by a supervisor;

(4) The method and frequency for supervisors to routinely verify that the food employee is following standard operating procedures and monitoring critical control points;

(5) Action to be taken by supervisors if the critical limits for each critical control point are not met; and

(6) Records to be maintained by supervisors to demonstrate that the HACCP plan is properly operated and managed;

(c) Identifies the food to be packaged;

(d) Limits the food packaged to a food that does not support the growth of Clostridium botulinum because it meets with one (1) of the following criteria:

(1) Has an aw of ninety-one hundredths (0.91) or less;

(2) Has a pH of four and six tenths (4.6) or less;

(3) Is a meat or poultry product cured at a food processing operation regulated by the USDA and is received in an intact package; or

(4) Is a food with a high level of competing organisms, such as raw meat or raw poultry;

(e) Specifies methods for maintaining food at forty-one degrees (41° F) (five degree Centigrade (5° C)) or below;

(f) Describes how the packages shall be prominently and conspicuously labeled on the principal display panel in bold type on a contrasting background, with instructions to:

(1) Maintain the food at forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41° F) (five degree Centigrade (5° C)) or below; and

(2) Discard the food if within fourteen (14) calendar days of its packaging it is not sold for consumption;

(g) Limits the shelf life to no more than fourteen (14) calendar days from packaging to consumption or the original manufacturer's "sell by" or "use by" date, whichever occurs first;

(h) Includes operational procedures that prohibit contacting food with bare hands;

(i) Includes operational procedures that identify a designated area and the method by which:

(1) Physical barriers or methods of separation of raw foods and ready-to-eat foods minimize cross contamination; and

(2) Access to the processing equipment is restricted to responsible trained personnel familiar with the potential hazards of the operation;

(j) Delineates cleaning and sanitization procedures for food-contact surfaces; and

(k) Describes the training program that ensures that the individual responsible for the reduced oxygen packaging operation understands the:

(1) Concepts required for a safe operation;

(2) Equipment and facilities; and

(3) Procedures specified under sections 801.2(b) and 801.2(h) - (j).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B9 FOOD MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS; STORAGE; TRANSPORTATION

25-B DCMR § 900 FOOD MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS - GENERAL PROVISIONS

900.1 Food manufacturing operations shall be conducted in accordance with 21 CFR 110.80 (b) - Processes and controls.

900.2 Food that can support the rapid growth of undesirable microorganisms, particularly those of public health significance, shall be held in a manner that prevents the food from becoming adulterated by maintaining cold, potentially hazardous foods at forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41° F) (five degree Centigrade (5° C)) or below, except when the food is received and stored at temperatures specified in another law, such as laws governing milk, molluscan shellfish, and shell eggs.

900.3 Frozen foods shall be maintained in a frozen state and stored at thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit (32° F) (zero degrees Centigrade (0° C)) or below.

900.4 Frozen foods shall not be refrozen after having been thawed unless the products are to be further processed by the processor, as necessary to control microbial growth.

900.5 Frozen foods during transportation shall remain frozen and at thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit (32° F) (zero degrees Centigrade (0° C)) or below.

900.6 Foods refrigerated during transportation shall be at forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41° F) (five degree Centigrade (5° C)) or below unless a federal aw law governing the food's distribution applies, such as temperature requirements for shellfish or shell eggs.

900.7 The licensee of a food processing operation shall report to the Department within twenty-four (24) hours after receiving positive test results, any microbiological test or other laboratory analysis that shows the likelihood that any ready-to-eat food produced by that operator contains pathogenic organisms, undeclared allergens, or other health hazards. The licensee may report orally, electronically, or in writing.

900.8 A licensee is not required to report test results if

(a) A product code or production date identifies the ready-to-eat food lot number; and

(b) The licensee has not sold or distributed any of the food represented by the product code or production lot number.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 901 FOOD MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS - ICE

901.1 When ice is used as an ingredient or in contact with food, it shall be made from water that is safe and meets the quality standards specified in section 1303. Ice shall be used only if it has been manufactured in accordance with this Code.

901.2 When ice is used as an ingredient or in contact with food, it shall be processed, handled, packed, and held under sanitary conditions in accordance with the criteria referenced in 21 CFR 110.5 — Current good manufacturing practices.

901.3 Ice used in the processing of food shall be protected from contamination during its manufacture, storage, transportation and use by taking necessary precautions which include but are not limited to ensuring that:

(a) Storage bins and containers of water are covered;

(b) All storage and packaging containers, including ice house or storage room contact surfaces, are sanitary, readily cleanable, and do not impart deleterious materials to the ice. Wooden totes shall not be used to transport or hold ice;

(c) Scoops, shovels and other utensils used in the handling of ice are in a sanitary condition, properly stored, readily cleanable, and do not impart deleterious materials to the ice;

(d) The ice does not come into contact with floor areas where foot traffic is possible; and

(e) Equipment used to manufacture ice is in a sanitary condition, readily cleanable and does not impart any deleterious or other foreign substances to the ice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 902 FOOD MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS - BOTTLED DRINKING WATER AND BEVERAGES

902.1 Bottled drinking water and beverages shall be processed in accordance with the criteria referenced in 21 CFR 129.1 - Current good manufacturing practice and 21 CFR 165.110 - Bottled water.

902.2 Bottled drinking water, manufactured, used, or sold, shall meet the requirements of the criteria referenced in 21 CFR 129.1 - Current good manufacturing practice and 21 CFR 165.110 - Bottled water.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 903 FOOD MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS - STORAGE AND TRANSPORATION - CONTROL OF CONTAMINATION

903.1 Storage and transportation of finished food shall be performed as stated in federal law, specifically 21 CFR 110.93 - Warehousing and distribution.

903.2 Potentially hazardous foods shall be transported at the temperatures specified in sections 900.2 through 900.6, and as required under subtitle H of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B10 FOOD LABELING

25-B DCMR § 1000 FOOD LABELING

1000.1 Food packaged or stored in a food processing operation shall be labeled in accordance with 21 CFR 101.3 - Identity labeling of food in packaged form, and 9 CFR 317.345 - Guidelines for voluntary nutrition labeling of single ingredient, raw product.

1000.2 Labels shall include all information required by federal laws, except when exemptions exist, such as those documented in section 403(Q)(3)-(5) of the Federal Food Act, 21 CFR 101.3 - Identity labeling of food in packaged form, and 9 CFR 317.345 - Guidelines for voluntary nutrition labeling of single ingredient, raw product.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1001 LABELING - STANDARDS OF IDENTITY

1001.1 Packaged food shall comply with the standard of identity requirements in 21 CFR 130.10 - Requirements for foods named by use of a nutrient content claim and a standardized term.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1002 LABELING - ACCURATE REPRESENTATION

1002.1 Food shall be labeled and offered for human consumption in a way that does not mislead or misinform the consumer.

1002.2 Food or color additives, colored overwraps, or lights may not be used to misrepresent the true appearance, color, or quality of the food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1003 FOOD LABELING - FOOD EXEMPT IN TRANSIT FOR COMPLETION PURPOSES

1003.1 Food which is, in accordance with the practice of the trade, to be processed, labeled, or repacked in substantial quantities at an establishment other than the establishment where it was originally processed or packed, is exempt from the affirmative labeling requirements of this chapter, while it is in transit from the one establishment to the other, if such transit is made in good faith for such completion purposes only; but it is otherwise subject to all the applicable provisions of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1004 BOTTLED WATER LABELING STANDARDS

1004.1 All bottled water must conform to applicable federal labeling laws and state labeling laws in the jurisdiction in which the bottled water plant operates, and be labeled in compliance with the following standards:

(a) Mineral water may be labeled "mineral water". Bottled water to which minerals are added shall be labeled so as to disclose that minerals are added, and may not be labeled "natural mineral water";

(b) Spring water may be labeled "spring water" or "natural spring water";

(c) Water containing carbon dioxide that emerges from the source and is bottled directly with its entrapped gas or from which the gas is mechanically separated and later reintroduced at a level not higher than naturally occurring in the water may bear on its label the words "naturally carbonated" or "naturally sparkling";

(d) Bottled water that contains carbon dioxide other than that naturally occurring in the source of the product shall be labeled with the words "carbonated", "carbonation added", or "sparkling" if the carbonation is obtained from a natural or manufactured source;

(e) Well water may be labeled "well water" or "natural well water";

(f) Artesian water may be labeled "artesian water" or "natural artesian water";

(g) Purified water may be labeled "purified water" and the method of preparation shall be stated on the label, except that purified water produced by distillation may be labeled as "distilled water";

(h) Drinking water may be labeled "drinking water";

(i) The use of the word "spring" or any derivative of "spring" other than in a trademark, trade name, or company name, to describe water that is not spring water is prohibited; and

(j) Supplemental printed information and graphics may appear on the label but shall not imply properties of the product or preparation methods that are not factual.

1004.2 Bottled soft drinks, soda, or seltzer products commonly recognized as soft drinks and identified on the product identity panel with a common or usual name other than one of those specified in section 9901 are exempt from the requirements of this section.

1004.3 Water that is not in compliance with the requirements of this section shall not be identified, labeled, or advertised as "artesian water", "bottled water", "distilled water", "natural water", "purified water", "spring water", or "well water".

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B11 RECALL PROCEDURES

25-B DCMR § 1100 GENERAL PROVISIONS

1100.1 Food processing operations shall develop and implement written recall procedures in accordance with 21 CFR 7.42 - Recall strategy, and 21 CFR 107.230 - Elements of an infant formula recall.

1100.2 Shellfish dealers shall develop and implement written procedures for conducting recalls of adulterated and misbranded shellfish products in accordance with 21 CFR 7.42 - Recall strategy.

1100.3 Recall procedures shall include timely notification to the Department of the following information:

(a) The situation requiring the recall; and

(b) The consignees or distributors who received the affected product, and the effective removal or correction of the affected product.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B12 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES AND FOOD-PACKAGING MATERIALS

25-B DCMR § 1200 EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS - DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, DURABILITY AND STRENGTH

1200.1 All food processing equipment, utensils, and fixtures shall be designed and constructed of such material and workmanship to be durable, cleanable, and properly maintained in accordance with 21 CFR 110.40 - Equipment and utensils, and the requirements in this chapter.

1200.2 The design, construction, and use of equipment and utensils shall preclude the adulteration of food with lubricants, fuel, metal fragments, contaminated water, or any other contaminants.

1200.3 Food processing equipment and utensils that are certified or classified for sanitation either by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International, the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) shall be deemed in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1201 EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS - DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, DURABILITY AND STRENGTH, FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES*

1201.1 Food temperature measuring devices shall not have sensors or stems constructed of glass, except that thermometers with glass sensors or stems that are encased in a shatterproof coating such as candy thermometers may be used.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1202 EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS - CLEANING

1202.1 Equipment and utensils used in food processing shall be cleaned as frequently as necessary to protect against contamination of food as follows:

(a) Food-contact surfaces of equipment and utensils used for manufacturing or holding low moisture food shall be in a dry, clean and sanitary condition at the time of use. When the food-contact surfaces are wet cleaned, they shall be sanitized and thoroughly dried before subsequent use.

(b) In wet processing, when cleaning is performed to protect against the introduction of microorganisms into food, food-contact surfaces of equipment and utensils shall be cleaned and sanitized before use and after any interruption during which the food-contact surfaces may have become contaminated.

(c) Where equipment and utensils are used in a continuous production operation, food-contact surfaces of the equipment shall be cleaned and sanitized as necessary to prevent contamination.

(d) Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment used in food processing operations shall be cleaned as frequently as necessary to protect against contamination of food.

(e) Sanitizing agents shall be effective and safe under conditions of use. Any facility, procedure, or machine is acceptable for cleaning and sanitizing equipment and utensils if it is established that the facility, procedure, or machine will routinely render equipment and utensils clean and sanitized.

(f) Chemical sanitizers and other chemical antimicrobials applied to food- contact surfaces shall meet the requirements specified in 21 CFR 178.1010 - Sanitizing solutions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1203 EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS - STORAGE, PREVENTING CONTAMINATION

1203.1 Equipment and utensils used in the processing of foods, such as knives, scrapers, scoops, shovels, cutters, and other hand tools and equipment shall be place or stored in a manner that prevents food contact surfaces from physical, biological or chemical contamination.

1203.2 Cleaned and sanitized portable equipment and utensils shall be stored in a location and manner that protects food-contact surfaces from contamination.

1203.3 Food contact equipment and utensils shall not be stored in the following manner

(a) In contact with the floor, dirty equipment frames, or other unsanitary nonfood contact surfaces;

(b) In contact with containers of nonpotable water (other than sterilizing solutions); or

(c) In contact with other contaminants.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1204 EQUIPMENT - TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, ACCURACY

1204.1 Food temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Celsius or dually scaled in Celsius and Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus one degree Centigrade (±1° C)) (plus or minus two degrees Fahrenheit (± 2° F)) in the intended range of use.

1204.2 Food temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus two degrees Fahrenheit (±2 ° F) (plus or minus one degree Centigrade (±1° C)) in the intended range of use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1205 EQUIPMENT - TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, AMBIENT AIR AND WATER, ACCURACY

1205.1 Ambient air and water temperature measuring devices that are scaled in Celsius or dually scaled in Celsius and Fahrenheit shall be designed to be easily readable and accurate to plus or minus one and one half degrees Centigrade (±1.5 ° C) (thirty-four and seven tenths degrees Fahrenheit (± 34.7 ° F)) in the intended range of use.

1205.2 Ambient air and water temperature measuring devices that are scaled only in Fahrenheit shall be accurate to plus or minus three degrees Fahrenheit (±3 ° F) (plus or minus two degrees Centigrade (±2 ° C)) in the intended range of use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1206 EQUIPMENT - FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICES, ACCURACY, INSTALLATION*

1206.1 Each freezer and refrigeration unit, including vehicles used to store, hold or transport food shall be fitted with an indicating thermometer, temperature measuring device or temperature recording device so installed as to show the temperature accurately within the compartment and shall be fitted with an automatic control for regulating temperature or with an automatic alarm system to indicate a significant temperature change in a manual operation.

1206.2 The licensee shall.

(a) Record the temperature shown by each measuring device installed in the unit, with the date on which the temperature reading was taken. Temperature shall be monitored and recorded at least weekly.

(b) Retain and have available for inspection the temperature records for the last six (6) months.

1206.3 The amount of food stored in a refrigerator or frozen food storage unit shall not exceed the designed capacity of that unit.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1207 EQUIPMENT - REFRIGERATED UNITS, CONTROLS, TEMPERATURES

1207.1 Every operator of a refrigerated unit operation shall provide a complete temperature control system with adequate capacity and accurate and reliable controls for the maintenance of the following uniform temperatures of the various refrigerated units under extreme conditions of outside temperatures and under peak load conditions in the food processing operation. Unit temperatures shall be maintained as follows:

(a) Chill room: Air temperature shall be maintained at forty-one degrees Fahrenheit (41° F) (five degrees Centigrade (5 ° C)) or below with accuracy within three degrees Fahrenheit (3 ° F) (two degrees Centigrade (2 ° C)).

(b) Deep freezing room: Air temperature of a deep freezing room shall be maintained at minus ten degrees Fahrenheit (-10° F) (minus twenty- three degrees Centigrade (-23° C)) or below. When forced air circulation is employed, the maximum air temperature shall be maintained at zero degrees Fahrenheit (0 ° F) (minus seventeen degrees Centigrade (-17° C)) with a tolerance of ten degrees Fahrenheit (10 ° F) (minus twelve degrees Centigrade (-12° C)).

(c) Locker room: Air temperatures of a locker room shall be maintained at zero degrees Fahrenheit (0° F) (minus seventeen degrees Centigrade (-17° C)) with a tolerance of twelve degrees Fahrenheit (12° F) (minus eleven degrees Centigrade (-11° C)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1208 EQUIPMENT - PRESSURE MEASURING DEVICES, MECHANICAL WAREWASHING EQUIPMENT, COMPRESSED AIR

1208.1 Pressure measuring devices that display the pressures in the water supply line for the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse shall have increments of seven (7) kilopascals (1 pound per square inch) or smaller and shall be accurate to plus or minus fourteen (±14) kilopascals (±2 pounds per square inch) in the range indicated on the manufacturer's data plate.

1208.2 Compressed air or other gases mechanically introduced into food or used to clean food-contact surfaces or equipment shall be treated in such a way that food is not contaminated with unlawful indirect food additives.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1209 EQUIPMENT - GOOD REPAIR, COMPLIANCE

1209.1 All equipment shall be in good repair and shall be so installed and maintained as to facilitate the cleaning of the equipment and of all adjacent spaces between the equipment.

1209.2 Existing cooling, heating, or temperature holding equipment that does not comply with this Code shall be replaced as specified in sections 3108.7 and 3108.8.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1210 EQUIPMENT - GOOD REPAIR AND CALIBRATION, TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE MEASURING DEVICES

1210.1 Instruments and controls used for measuring, regulating, or recording temperatures, acidity, water activity, humidity, or other conditions that control or prevent the growth of undesirable microorganisms in food shall be accurate and adequately maintained, sufficient in number for their designated uses, and calibrated at the frequency recommended by the manufacturer of the device.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1211 FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES - CHARACTERISTICS*

1211.1 Food-contact surfaces shall be made of nontoxic and non-harmful materials and designed to withstand the environment of their intended use, the action of food, and, if applicable, cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents.

1211.2 Food-contact surfaces shall be corrosion-resistant when in contact with food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1212 FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES - CLEANABILITY*

1212.1 Food-contact surfaces shall be maintained to protect food from being contaminated by any source, including unlawful indirect food additives, by the following means:

(a) Seams and edges on food-contact surfaces shall be smoothly bonded or maintained so as to minimize accumulation of food particles, dirt, and organic matter and thus minimize the opportunity for growth of microorganisms.

(b) Equipment that is in the food processing or food-handling area that does not come into contact with food shall be so constructed that it can be maintained in a clean condition.

(c) Holding, conveying, and manufacturing systems, including gravimetric, pneumatic, closed, and automated systems, shall be of a design and construction that enables them to be maintained in an appropriate sanitary condition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1213 NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES - CLEANABILITY

1213.1 Nonfood-contact surfaces shall be free of unnecessary ledges, projections, and crevices, and designed and constructed to allow easy cleaning and to facilitate maintenance.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1214 FOOD-PACKAGING MATERIALS - DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, DURABILITY AND STRENGTH

1214.1 All food-packaging materials that are in direct contact with food shall be designed and constructed of material appropriate for their intended use in accordance with 21 CFR 181.22 - Certain substances employed in the manufacture of food-packaging materials and 9 CFR 317.24 - Packaging Materials. .

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1215 FOOD-PACKAGING MATERIALS - HANDLING AND STORAGE, PREVENTING CONTAMINATION

1215.1 Food packaging materials shall be stored in appropriate containers and locations, and shall be handled and disposed of in a manner that protects against contamination of food or food-contact surfaces.

1215.2 The food contact surfaces of food packaging materials shall be protected from potential sources of contamination during handling and storage by taking necessary precautions which include but are not limited to ensuring that:

(a) Boxes, liners and other primary containers are not stored on floors or other unsanitary surfaces;

(b) Top containers in a nested stack of lined or primary containers are inverted or otherwise protected;

(c) All single service containers, caps, roll stock, liner jars, bottles, jugs and other preformed containers are stored in closed sanitary tubes, wrappings, boxes or cartons prior to use;

(d) The forming, make-up or other package assembly is conducted in a manner that precludes contamination; and

(e) The handling of packaging material and containers prior to filling or wrapping is conducted so that they are not exposed to contamination by dust, foreign material or other contaminants.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B13 WATER

25-B DCMR § 1300 SOURCE - APPROVED SYSTEM*

1300.1 The only approved system for drinking water is the District of Columbia public water system.

1300.2 A food processing operation shall not obtain water for its operations from a water system that is not the District of Columbia public water system.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1301 SOURCE - SYSTEM FLUSHING AND DISINFECTION*

1301.1 A drinking water system shall be flushed and disinfected before being placed in service after construction, repair, or modification and after an emergency situation, such as a flood, that may introduce contaminants to the system.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1302 SOURCE - BOTTLED DRINKING WATER*

1302.1 Bottled drinking water used in a food processing operation shall be obtained from approved sources in accordance with 21 CFR 129.1 - Current good manufacturing practice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1303 QUALITY - STANDARDS*

1303.1 Water from a public water system or potable water shall meet the requirements of the applicable provisions of 40 CFR Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

1303.2 Potable water shall be used for drinking; cooking; washing of food, equipment, food contact surfaces, and utensils; and food preparation.

1303.3 Any steam used in a food processing operation or that comes in contact with food contact surfaces shall be free from additives or deleterious substances.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1304 QUALITY - NONDRINKING WATER*

1304.1 A nondrinking water or nonpotable water supply may be used only if its use is approved by the Department.

1304.2 Nondrinking water may be used for purposes unrelated to food processing including, but not limited to, air conditioning, nonfood equipment cooling, fire protection, irrigation, plant and equipment cleanup, and other sanitary purposes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1305 QUANTITY AND AVAILABILITY - CAPACITY*

1305.1 The water source and system shall be of sufficient capacity to meet the water demands of the food processing operation.

1305.2 Hot water generation and distribution systems shall be sufficient to meet the hot water demands throughout the food processing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1306 QUANTITY AND AVAILABILITY - PRESSURE

1306.1 Hot or cold water under pressure shall be provided to all fixtures, equipment, and nonfood equipment that are required to use hot or cold water.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1307 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION - SYSTEM

1307.1 Water shall be received from the source through the use of an approved public water main, or through one or more of the following, which shall be constructed, maintained, and operated according to the applicable provisions of 40 CFR Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards:

(a) Water transport vehicles; or

(b) Water containers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1308 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION - ALTERNATIVE WATER SUPPLY

1308.1 Water meeting the requirements specified in sections 1300 through 1307 shall be made available for a mobile facility, for a temporary food processing operation without a permanent water supply, and for a food processing operation with a temporary interruption of its water supply through:

(a) A supply of containers of commercially bottled drinking water;

(b) One or more closed portable water containers;

(c) An enclosed vehicular water tank;

(d) An on-premises water storage tank; or

(e) Piping, tubing, or hoses connected to an adjacent approved source.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B14 PLUMBING SYSTEM

25-B DCMR § 1400 MATERIALS - APPROVED MATERIALS, USE*

1400.1 A plumbing system and hoses conveying water shall be constructed and repaired with approved materials according to the ICC International Plumbing Code/2000 as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement/ 2003 (Title 12F of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations), and subsequent amendments, hereinafter referred to as the "Plumbing Code".

1400.2 A water filter shall be made of safe materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1401 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION - APPRO VED SYSTEM AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES*

1401.1 A plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, and installed according to the Plumbing Code.

1401.2 A plumbing system shall be of sufficient size and shall be designed, constructed, installed and maintained according to the Plumbing Code to:

(a) Carry sufficient quantities of water to required locations throughout the food processing operation;

(b) Properly convey sewage and liquid disposable waste from the food processing operation;

(c) Avoid constituting a source of contamination to food, potable water, food contact surfaces, equipment, utensils or food packaging materials, or creating any unsanitary condition; and

(d) Provide sufficient floor drainage to prevent excessive pooling of water or other disposable waste in all areas where floors are subject to flooding-type cleaning or where normal operations release or discharge water or other liquid waste on the floor.

1401.3 A plumbing fixture such as a handwashing facility, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable.N

1401.4 Each food processing operation shall be equipped with effective plumbing and sewage facilities and adequate accommodations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1402 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION - HANDWASHING SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW

1402.1 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms, shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100° F) (thirty-eight degrees Centigrade (38°C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

1402.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

1402.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

1402.4 An automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1403 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION - TOILETS AND URINALS

1403.1 Toilet facilities shall be provided in accordance with section 1908 and the Plumbing Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1404 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION - SERVICE SINKS

1404.1 Service sinks and curbed cleaning facilities shall be provided in accordance with section 1907 and the Plumbing Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1405 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION - BACKFLOW PREVENTION, AIR GAP*

1405.1 An air gap between the water supply inlet and the flood level rim of the plumbing fixture, equipment, or nonfood equipment shall be at least twice the diameter of the water supply inlet and may not be less than twenty-five millimeters (25 mm) or one inch (1 in).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1406 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION - BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, DESIGN STANDARD

1406.1 A backflow or backsiphonage prevention device installed on a water supply system shall meet American Society of Sanitary Engineering standards for construction, installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing for that specific application and type of device.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1407 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION - CONDITIONING DEVICE, DESIGN

1407.1 A water filter, screen, or other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be located to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning. A water filter element shall be of the replaceable type.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1408 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES - BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, WHEN REQUIRED*

1408.1 A plumbing system shall be installed to preclude backflow of a solid, liquid, or gas contaminant into the water supply system at each point of use at the food processing operation, including on a hose bibb if a hose is attached or on a hose bibb if a hose is not attached and backflow prevention is required by the Plumbing Code by:

(a) Providing an air gap as specified in section 1405; or

(b) Installing an approved backflow prevention device as specified in section 1406.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1409 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES - BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, CARBONATOR*

1409.1 If an air gap is not provided as specified in section 1405, a double check valve with an intermediate vent preceded by a screen of not less than one hundred (100) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25 4 mm) (100 mesh to 1 inch) shall be installed upstream from a carbonating device and downstream from any copper in the water supply line.

1409.2 A single or double check valve attached to the carbonator need not be of the vented type if an air gap or vented backflow prevention device has been otherwise provided as specified in section 1408.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1410 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE

1410.1 A backflow prevention device shall be located so that it may be serviced and maintained.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1411 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT - CONDITIONING DEVICE

1411.1 A water filter, screen, or other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be located to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1412 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - PROHIBITING A CROSS CONNECTION*

1412.1 A person shall not create a cross connection by connecting a pipe or conduit between the drinking water system and a nondrinking water system or a water system of unknown quality.

1412.2 The piping of a nondrinking water system shall be durably identified so that it is readily distinguishable from piping that carries drinking water.N

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1413 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - SCHEDULING INSPECTION AND SERVICE FOR A WATER SYSTEM DEVICE

1413.1 A device such as a water treatment device or backflow preventer shall be scheduled for inspection and service, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and as necessary to prevent device failure based on local water conditions. Records demonstrating inspection and service shall be maintained by supervisors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1414 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - WATER RESERVOIR OF FOGGING DEVICES, CLEANING*

1414.1 A reservoir that is used to supply water to a device such as a produce fogger shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications, or according to the procedures specified in section 1414.2, whichever is more stringent.

1414.2 Cleaning procedures shall include at least the following steps and shall be conducted at least once a week:

(a) Draining and complete disassembly of the water and aerosol contact parts;

(b) Brush-cleaning the reservoir, aerosol tubing, and discharge nozzles with a suitable detergent solution;

(c) Flushing the complete system with water to remove the detergent solution and particulate accumulation; and

(d) Rinsing by immersing, spraying, or swabbing the reservoir, aerosol tubing, and discharge nozzles with at least fifty (50) mg/L hypochlorite solution.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1415 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - SYSTEM MAINTAINED IN GOOD REPAIR*

1415.1 A plumbing system shall be:

(a) Repaired according to the Plumbing Code; and

(b) Maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B15 SEWAGE, OTHER LIQUID WASTE, AND RAINWATER

25-B DCMR § 1500 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY - DRAINAGE SYSTEM

1500.1 Food operation drainage systems, including grease traps, that convey sewage shall be designed, constructed and installed in accordance with the Plumbing Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1501 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVE-RYBACICFLOW PREVENTION*

1501.1 Except as specified in this section, a direct connection shall not exist between the sewage system and a drain originating from equipment in which food, potable water, portable equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials are placed.

1501.2 Section 1501.1 shall not apply to floor drains that originate in refrigerated spaces that are constructed as an integral part of the building.

1501.3 If allowed by the Plumbing Code, a warewashing machine may have a direct connection between its waste outlet and a floor drain when the machine is located within one and one-half meters (1.5m) or five feet (5 ft.) of a trapped floor drain and the machine outlet is connected to the inlet side of a properly vented floor drain trap.

1501.4 If allowed by the Plumbing Code, a warewashing or culinary sink may have a direct connection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1502 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY - GREASE TRAP

1502.1 A grease trap shall be easily accessible for cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1503 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVE-RYCONVEYING SEWAGE*

1503.1 Sewage shall be conveyed to the point of disposal through an approved sanitary sewage system or other system, including use of sewage transport vehicles, waste retention tanks, pumps, pipes, hoses, and connections that are constructed, maintained, and operated in accordance with the Plumbing Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1504 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY - REMOVING FOOD OPERATION WASTES

1504.1 Removal of liquid waste, including grease collections, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter. The licensee shall maintain a copy of the food processing operation's waste service contract on the premises of the food processing operation indicating approved waste servicing areas, and the:

(a) Name and address of the licensed sewage and liquid waste transport contractor;

(b) Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of sewage and liquid waste removal services provided under the contract.

1504.2 Sewage and other liquid wastes shall be removed from a food processing operation by a sewage transport vehicle in such a way that the waste does not constitute a source of contamination in areas where food is exposed, and in such a way that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1505 RETENTION, DRAINAGE, AND DELIVERY FLUSHING A WASTE RETENTION TANK

1505.1 A tank for liquid waste retention shall be thoroughly flushed and drained in a sanitary manner during the servicing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1506 DISPOSAL FACILITY - APPROVED SYSTEM*

1506.1 Sewage shall be disposed through an approved facility that is a public sewage treatment plant or an individual sewage disposal system that is sized, constructed, maintained, and operated according to the Plumbing Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1507 DISPOSAL FACILITIL OTHER LIQU ID WASTES AND RAINWATER

1507.1 Condensate drainage and other nonsewage liquids and rainwater shall be drained from point of discharge to disposal according to applicable District laws and regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B16 RECEPTACLES AND WASTE HANDLING UNITS

25-B DCMR § 1600 FACILITIES ON PREMISES - INDOOR STORAGE AREA

1600.1 If located within a food processing operation, storage areas for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall meet the requirements specified in section 1608.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1601 FACILITIES ON PREMISES - OUTDOOR STORAGE SURFACE

1601.1 An outdoor storage surface for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1602 FACILITIES ON THE PREMISES - OUTDOOR ENCLOSURE

1602.1 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1603 FACILITIES ON PREMISES - RECEPTACLES

1603.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables and for use with materials containing food residue shall be durable, cleanable, insect- and rodent-resistant, leakproof, nonabsorbent and maintained in good repair.

1603.2 Plastic bags and wet strength paper bags may be used to line receptacles for storage inside the food processing operation, or within closed outside receptacles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1604 FACILITIES ON PREMISES - OUTSIDE RECEPTACLES

1604.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables used with materials containing food residue and used outside the food processing operation shall be designed and constructed to have tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers.

1604.2 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse and recyclables such as an on-site compactor shall be installed so that accumulation of debris, insect, and rodent attraction and harborage are minimized, and effective cleaning is facilitated around and, if the unit is not installed flush with the base pad, under the unit.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1605 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES - STORAGE AREAS, ROOMS, AND RECEPTACLES

1605.1 An inside storage room and area, outside storage area and enclosure, and receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the refuse, recyclables, and returnables that accumulate.

1605.2 A receptacle shall be provided in each area of the food processing operation or premises where refuse is generated or commonly discarded, or where recyclables or returnables are placed.

1605.3 If disposable towels are used at handwashing sinks, a waste receptacle shall be located at each sink or group of adjacent sinks.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1606 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES - TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE, COVERED

1606.1 A toilet room used by females shall be provided with a covered receptacle for sanitary napkins.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1607 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES - CLEANING IMPLEMENTS AND SUPPLIES

1607.1 Except as specified in section 1607.2, suitable cleaning implements and supplies such as high-pressure pumps, hot water, steam, and detergent shall be provided as necessary for effective cleaning of receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables.

1607.2 If approved by the Department, off-premises-based cleaning services may be used if on-premises cleaning implements and supplies are not provided.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1608 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT - STORAGE AREAS, REDEEMING MACHINES, RECEPTACLES AND WASTE HANDLING UNITS

1608.1 An area designated for refuse, recyclables, returnables, and a redeeming machine for recyclables or returnables shall be located so that it is separate from food processing, storage and packaging areas and a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

1608.2 The location of receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance or interfere with the cleaning of adjacent space.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1609 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - STORAGE OF REFUSE, RECYCLABLES, AND RETURNABLES

1609.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be stored in receptacles or waste handling units so that they are inaccessible to insects and rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1610 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - AREAS, ENCLOSURES, AND RECEPTACLES, GOOD REPAIR

1610.1 Storage areas, enclosures, and receptacles for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1611 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - OUTSIDE STORAGE PROHIBITIONS

1611.1 Except as specified in section 1611.2, refuse receptacles not meeting the requirements specified in section 1603, such as receptacles that are not rodent-resistant, unprotected plastic bags and paper bags, or baled units that contain materials with food residue shall not be stored outside.

1611.2 Cardboard or other packaging material that does not contain food residue and is awaiting regularly scheduled delivery to a recycling or disposal site may be stored outside without being in a covered receptacle if it is stored so that it does not create a rodent harborage problem.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1612 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - COVERING RECEPTACLES

1612.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables located inside the food procession operation shall be kept covered after they are filled or if they contain food residue and are not in continuous use. If located outside the food processing operation, receptacles and units shall be kept covered with tight-fitting lids or doors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1613 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - USING DRAIN PLUGS

1613.1 Drains in receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall have drain plugs in place.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1614 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE REFUSE AREAS AND ENCLOSURES

1614.1 Storage areas and enclosures for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be kept clean, and maintained free of unnecessary items, as specified in section 2000.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1615 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - LOCATION

1615.1 Storage areas and enclosures for receptacles and waste handling equipment shall be located at a distance from the building that minimizes the entrance of pests and other vermin.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1616 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE - CLEANING RECEPTACLES

1616.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be thoroughly cleaned in a way that does not contaminate food, utensils, equipment, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials, and waste water shall be disposed of as specified in sections 1503 and 1504.

1616.2 Soiled receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to prevent them from developing a buildup of soil or becoming attractants for insects and rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1617 REMOVAL - FREQUENCY

1617.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be removed from the premises at a frequency that will minimize the development of objectionable odors and other conditions that attract or harbor insects and rodents and that protects against contamination of food, utensils, equipment, food-contact surfaces, food packaging materials, water supplies, and ground surfaces.

1617.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the facility's professional service contract which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its licensed trash or solid waste contractor;

(b) Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of trash or solid waste collection services provided under the contract.

1617.3 Trash or solid waste collection shall comply with title 21, chapter 7 of the DCMR.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1618 REMOVAL - RECEPTACLES OR VEHICLES

1618.1 Refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall be removed from the premises by way of:

(a) Portable receptacles that meet District law; or

(b) A transport vehicle that is maintained and operated according to District law.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B17 MATERIALS FOR CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIR OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-B DCMR § 1700 INDOOR AREAS - SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS

1700.1 Materials for indoor floor, wall, and ceiling surfaces under conditions of normal use shall be:

(a) Smooth, durable, and easily cleanable for areas where food operations are conducted;

(b) Closely woven and easily cleanable carpet for carpeted areas; and

(c) Nonabsorbent for areas subject to moisture, such as food processing areas, walk-in refrigerators, toilet rooms, and areas subject to flushing or spray cleaning methods.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1701 OUTDOOR AREAS - SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS

1701.1 The outdoor walking and driving areas shall be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or gravel, or other materials that have been effectively treated to minimize dust, facilitate maintenance, and prevent muddy conditions.

1701.2 Exterior surfaces of buildings shall be of weather-resistant materials, and shall comply with applicable District laws and regulations.

1701.3 Outdoor storage areas for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be constructed of materials specified in sections 1601 and 1602.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B18 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-B DCMR § 1800 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION - PHYSICAL FACILITIES

1800.1 Physical facilities shall be adequate in size, construction, and design to facilitate maintenance and the sanitary operation of the food processing operation in accordance with 21 CFR 110.20 - Plant and grounds, 21 CFR 110.35 - Sanitary operations, 21 CFR 110.37 - Sanitary facilities and controls, and this Code.

1800.2 The floor of every workroom shall be maintained, as far as practicable, in a dry condition. Where wet processes are used, drainage shall be maintained and false floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places shall be provided. Where practicable and appropriate, waterproof footgear shall be provided.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1801 CLEANABILITY - FLOORS, WALLS, AND CEILINGS

1801.1 Except as specified in section 1804, the floors, floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable, except that antislip floor coverings or applications may be used for safety reasons.

1801.2 To facilitate cleaning, floors, workrooms, and passageways shall be kept free from protruding nails, splinters, loose boards, and unnecessary holes and openings.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1802 CLEANABILITY - FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

1802.1 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed.

1802.2 Exposed utility service lines and pipes shall be installed so they do not obstruct or prevent cleaning of the floors, walls, or ceilings.

1802.3 Exposed horizontal utility service lines and pipes shall not be installed on the floor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1803 CLEANABILITY - FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTURES, COVED, AND ENCLOSED OR SEALED

1803.1 In food processing operations in which cleaning methods other than water flushing are used for cleaning floors, the floor and wall junctures shall be coved and closed to no larger than one millimeter (1 mm) or one thirty- second of an inch (1/32 in.).

1803.2 The floors in food processing operations in which water flush cleaning methods are used shall be provided with floor drains and be graded to drain. The floor and wall junctures shall be coved and sealed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1804 CLEANABILITY - FLOOR CARPETING, RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION

1804.1 A floor covering such as carpeting or similar material shall not be installed as a floor covering in food processing areas, walk-in refrigerators, warewashing areas, toilet room areas where handwashing sinks, toilets, or urinals are located, refuse storage rooms, or other areas where the floor is subject to moisture, flushing, or spray cleaning methods.

1804.2 If carpeting is installed as a floor covering in areas other than those specified in section 1804.1, it shall be:

(a) Securely attached to the floor with a durable mastic, by using a stretch and tack method, or by another similar method; and

(b) Installed tightly against the wall under the coving or installed away from the wall with a space between the carpet and the wall and with the edges of the carpet secured by metal stripping or some other means.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1805 CLEANABILITY - FLOOR COVERING, MATS AND DUCKBOARDS

1805.1 Mats and duckboards shall be designed to be removable and easily cleanable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1806 CLEANABILITY - WALL AND CEILING COVERINGS AND COATINGS

1806.1 Wall and ceiling covering materials shall be attached so that they are easily cleanable.

1806.2 Except in areas used only for dry storage, concrete, porous blocks, or bricks used for indoor wall construction shall be finished and sealed to provide a smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable surface.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1807 CLEANABILITY AND EXPOSURE - WALLS AND CEILINGS, ATTACHMENTS, STUDS, JOISTS, AND RAFTERS

1807.1 Except as specified in section 1807.2, attachments to walls and ceilings such as light fixtures, mechanical room ventilation system components, vent covers, wall mounted fans, decorative items, and other attachments shall be easily cleanable.

1807.2 In public areas, wall and ceiling surfaces and decorative items and attachments that are provided for ambiance need not meet the requirements of section 1807.1 if they are kept clean.

1807.3 Studs, joists, and rafters shall not be exposed in areas subject to moisture.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1808 FUNCTIONALITY - LIGHTING, INTENSITY

1808.1 The light intensity inside a food processing operation shall be:

(a) At least one hundred and eight (108) lux or ten (10) foot candles at a distance of seventy-five centimeters (75 cm) or thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor in walk-in refrigeration units and dry food storage areas and in other areas and rooms during periods of cleaning;

(b) At least two hundred and fifteen (215) lux or twenty (20) foot candles:

(1) Inside equipment such as reach-in and under-counter refrigerators; and

(2) At a distance of seventy-five centimeters (75 cm) or thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor in areas used for handwashing, warewashing, storage of equipment, utensil or food-packaging materials, and in toilet rooms; and

(c) At least five hundred and forty (540) lux or fifty (50) foot candles at the working surface of a food processing area where a food employee is working with food or working with utensils or equipment including knives, slicers, grinders, or saws where employee safety is a factor, and in areas used for warewashing.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1809 FUNCTIONALITY - LIGHT BULBS, PROTECTIVE SHIELDING

1809.1 Except as specified in section 1809.2, light bulbs shall be shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant in all areas where food is examined, processed, or stored, and where equipment or utensils are cleaned

.

1809.2 Shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant bulbs need not be used in areas used only for storing food in unopened packages, if:

(a) The integrity of the packages cannot be affected by broken glass falling onto them; and

(b) The packages are capable of being cleaned of debris from broken bulbs before the packages are opened.

1809.3 An infrared or other heat lamp shall be protected against breakage by a shield surrounding and extending beyond the bulb so that only the face of the bulb is exposed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1810 FUNCTIONALITY - VENTILATION, MECHANICAL

1810.1 All rooms shall have sufficient tempered make-up air and exhaust ventilation to keep them free of excessive heat, steam, condensation, vapors, obnoxious odors, smoke, and fumes.

1810.2 All ventilation systems, furnaces, gas- or oil-fired room heaters, and water heaters shall be designed, installed, and operated in accordance with the Plumbing Code.

1810.3 Each room in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be provided with facilities for at least eight (8) air changes per hour. Recirculation of air is not permitted.

1810.4 Each food processing operation that creates smoke, steam, gases, fumes, odors, vapors, or excessive heat shall be hooded and vented, or locally vented to the outside air by forced draft, in a manner that will effectively remove the conditions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1811 FUNCTIONALITY - HEATING, VENTILATING, AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM VENTS

1811.1 Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems shall be designed and installed so that make-up air intake and exhaust vents do not cause contamination of food, food-contact surfaces, food packaging materials, equipment, or utensils.

1811.2 Adequate ventilation or control equipment shall be provided to minimize odors and vapors, including steam and noxious fumes, in areas where they may contaminate food; and fans and other air blowing equipment shall be located and operated in a manner that minimizes the potential for contaminating food, utensils, equipment, food-packaging materials, and food-contact surfaces.

1811.3 Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials.

1811.4 Ventilation systems may not create a public health hazard or nuisance or unlawful discharge, if vented to the outside.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1812 FUNCTIONALITY - INSECT CONTROL DEVICES, DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

1812.1 Insect control devices that are used to electrocute or stun flying insects shall be designed to retain the insect within the device.

1812.2 Insect control devices shall be installed so that:

(a) The devices are not located over a food preparation area; and

(b) Dead insects and insect fragments are prevented from being impelled onto or falling onto exposed food, clean equipment, utensils and food- contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1813 FUNCTIONALITY - OUTER OPENINGS, PROTECTED

1813.1 Except as otherwise specified in this section, the outer openings of a food processing operation shall be protected against the entry of insects, rodents or other vermin by:

(a) Filling or closing holes and other gaps along floors, walls, and ceilings;

(b) Closed, tight-fitting windows; and

(c) Solid, self-closing, tight-fitting doors, except that dock doors need not be self-closing.

1813.2 Section 1813.1 shall not apply if a food processing operation opens into a larger structure, such as a mall, airport, or office building, or into an attached structure, such as a porch, and the outer openings from the larger or attached structure are protected against the entry of insects and rodents.

1813.3 Exterior doors used as exits need not be self-closing if they are:

(a) Solid and tight-fitting;

(b) Designated only for emergency by the Fire Department; and

(c) Restricted so they are not used for entrance or exit from the building for purposes other than the designated emergency exit use.

1813.4 Except as specified sections 1813.2 and 1813.5, if the windows or doors of a food processing operation are kept open for ventilation or other purposes, the openings shall be protected against the entry of insects and rodents by:

(a) Sixteen (16) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25.4 mm) or sixteen (16) mesh to one inch (1 in.) screens;

(b) Properly designed and installed air curtains to control flying insects; or

(c) Other effective means that prohibit the entry of insects and rodents to a similar degree.

1813.5 Section 1813.4 does not apply if flying insects and other pests are absent due to the location of the food processing operation, the weather, or other limiting conditions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1814 FUNCTIONALITY - EXTERIOR WALLS AND ROOFS, PROTECTIVE BARRIER

1814.1 Perimeter walls and roofs of a food processing operation shall effectively protect the food processing operation from the weather and the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1815 FUNCTIONALITY - OUTDOOR FOOD VENDING AREAS, OVERHEAD PROTECTION

1815.1 If located outside, a machine used to vend food shall be provided with overhead protection, except that a machine vending canned beverages need not meet this requirement.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1816 FUNCTIONALITY - OUTDOOR SERVICING AREAS, OVERHEAD PROTECTION

1816.1 Servicing areas shall be provided with overhead protection, except that areas used only for the loading of water or the discharge of sewage and other liquid waste through the use of a closed system of hoses need not be provided with overhead protection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1817 FUNCTIONALITY - OUTDOOR WALKING AND DRIVING SURFACES, GRADED TO DRAIN

1817.1 Exterior walking and driving surfaces shall be graded to drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1818 FUNCTIONALITY - OUTDOOR REFUSE AREAS, CURBED AND GRADED TO DRAIN

1818.1 Outdoor refuse areas shall be constructed, curbed and graded to drain to collect and dispose of liquid waste that results from the refuse and from cleaning the area and waste receptacles.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1819 FUNCTIONALITY - PRIVATE HOMES AND LIVING OR SLEEPING QUARTERS, USE PROHIBITION

1819.1 A private home, a room used as living or sleeping quarters, or an area directly opening into a room used as living or sleeping quarters shall not be used for food-handling or conducting food operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1820 FUNCTIONALITY - LIVING OR SLEEPING QUARTERS, SEPARATION

1820.1 Living or sleeping quarters located on the premises of a food processing operation, such as those provided for security personnel, shall be separated from rooms and areas used for food operations by complete partitioning and solid, self-closing doors.

1820.2 Access to any place designed, intended, or used for human habitation shall not be through a food processing operation, but shall be by means of a separate entrance.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B19 NUMBER, CAPACITY, LOCATION, AND OPERATION OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-B DCMR § 1900 HANDWASHING SINKS - NUMBER, AND LOCATION

1900.1 Handwashing sinks shall be located to allow convenient use by employees in food processing areas, and in, or immediately adjacent to, toilet rooms.

1900.2 Handwashing sinks located in the toilet rooms, or within an anteroom or vestibule serving a toilet room, do not meet the requirements for handwashing sinks in operating areas for persons working in any capacity the activities of which include contact with unprotected food for human consumption, or the care and use of food contact surfaces.

1900.3 Any area of food operation in which open food is handled shall have its own handwashing sink, other than a toilet room, which shall be located not more than twenty feet (20 ft.) from where the food is handled; provided, that the Department shall have the discretion to require that this handwashing sink be located closer than twenty feet (20 ft.) from the area where food is handled.

1900.4 The Department may permit the continuing use of existing handwashing sinks to meet the requirements of this section if the sinks:

(a) Are immediately adjacent to the operational areas they are intended to serve;

(b) Are not available to or used by the public; and

(c) Do not serve more than three (3) persons when the activities of any person involve contact with unprotected food for human consumption or the care and use of food contact surfaces.

1900.5 If approved and capable of removing the types of soils encountered in the food operations involved, automatic handwashing facilities may be substituted for handwashing sinks in a food processing operation that has at least one (1) handwashing sink.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1901 HANDWASHING SINKS - USE

1901.1 A handwashing sink shall be maintained so that it is accessible at all times for employees' use.

1901.2 A handwashing sink shall not be used for purposes other than handwashing.

1901.3 An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1902 HANDWASHING SINKS - HANDWASHING CLEANSER, AVAILABILITY

1902.1 Each handwashing sink or group of two (2) adjacent sinks shall be provided with hand cleaning liquid or powder.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1903 HANDWASHING SINKS - HAND DRYING PROVISION

1903.1 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with:

(a) Individual, disposable towels; or

(b) A heated-air hand-drying device, except that a heated-air hand-drying device shall not be the only device provided at a sink used by employees in a food processing area.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1904 HANDWASHING SINKS - HANDWASHING AIDS AND DEVICES, USE RESTRICTIONS

1904.1 A sink used for food preparation or utensil washing, or a service sink or curbed cleaning facility used for the disposal of mop water or similar wastes, shall not be provided with the handwashing aids and devices required for a handwashing sink as specified in sections 1902, 1903, and 1906.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1905 HANDWASHING SINKS - HANDWASHING SIGNAGE

1905.1 A sign or poster that notifies food employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks used by food employees and shall be clearly visible to food employees.

1905.2 Food processing operations shall provide signs directing food employees handling unprotected food, unprotected food-packaging materials, or food- contact surfaces where to wash and, where appropriate, to sanitize their hands.

1905.3 Handwashing signs shall be posted in food processing areas and in all other areas where employees handle food, food-packaging materials, or food- contact surfaces. If necessary, the signs shall be multilingual.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1906 HANDWASHING SINKS - DISPOSABLE TOWELS, WASTE RECEPTACLE

1906.1 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is provided with disposable towels or suitable drying devices shall be provided with a waste receptacle as specified in section 1605.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1907 SERVICE SINKS - NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES

1907.1 At least one (1) service sink or one (1) curbed cleaning facility equipped with a floor drain shall be provided and conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet floor cleaning tools and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1908 TOILETS AND URINALS - NUMBER, CAPACITY, CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY*

1908.1 Each food processing operation shall maintain toilet facilities for employees, which shall consist of a toilet room or toilet rooms with proper and sufficient water closets and lavatories. Toilet facilities shall be conveniently located and readily accessible to all operating personnel.

1908.2 Toilets and urinals provided for employees' use shall be in accordance with the Plumbing Code. Urinals may be substituted for toilets if the substitution is approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and the Department.

1908.3 The licensee shall, at a minimum.

(a) Maintain the toilet facilities in a sanitary condition that is clean and free of trash and litter;

(b) Keep the facilities in good repair at all times;

(c) Provide self-closing doors; and

(d) Provide doors that do not open into areas where food is exposed to airborne contamination except where alternate means have been taken to protect against contamination, such as double doors or positive airflow systems.

1908.4 A food processing operation that employs both males and females shall have separate toilet facilities for each sex; provided, that a food operation with five (5) or fewer employees may allow employees of both sexes to use a single toilet facility.

1908.5 Toilet facilities shall be deemed conveniently located and accessible to employees during all hours of operation if they are:

(a) Located within the same building as the business they serve; and

(b) Accessible during working hours without going outside the building.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1909 TOILETS AND URINALS - TOILET ROOMS ENCLOSED

1909.1 A toilet room located on the premises shall be completely enclosed and provided with a tight-fitting and self-closing door, except that this requirement does not apply to a toilet room that is located outside a food processing operation and does not open directly into the food processing operation.

1909.2 Toilet room doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1910 TOILETS AND URINALS TOILET TISSUE, RECEPTACLE AVAILABILITY

1910.1 A supply of toilet tissue shall be available at each toilet.

1910.2 A covered receptacle for sanitary napkins shall be provided, as appropriate, in accordance with section 1606.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1911 EMPLOYEE ACCOMMODATIONS- DESIGNATED AREAS , CHANGING ROOMS, SHOWERS FACILITIES

1911.1 Areas designated for employees to eat, drink, and use tobacco shall be located so that food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food- packaging materials are protected from contamination.

1911.2 Locker rooms shall be used by employees if employees regularly change their clothes in the establishment

1911.3 Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be provided for the orderly storage of employees' clothing, either personal or supplied by management, and other possessions in a designated room or area where contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials can not occur.

1911.4 A food operation that requires employees to wear protective clothing because of the possibility of contamination shall provide changing rooms equipped with storage facilities for street clothes and separate storage facilities for the protective clothing

1911.5 When a food operation provides work clothes that become wet or are washed between shifts, clothes drying facilities shall be provided to insure that such clothing is dry before reuse.

1911.6 A food operation that requires employees to shower because of a particular food processing standard shall provide one shower for every ten (10) employees of each sex, or numerical fraction thereof, who are required to shower during the same shift.

1911.7 Each shower shall be conveniently equipped with:

(a) Body soap or other appropriate cleansing agents;

(b) Hot and cold water feeding a common discharge line; and

(c) A supply of individual clean towels for employees who use the showers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 1912 DISTRESSED MERCHANDISE - SEGREGATION AND LOCATION

1912.1 Products that are returned to the distributor for credit or redemption, including damaged, spoiled, or recalled products, shall be segregated and held in designated areas that are separated from food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B20 MAINTENANCE OF PHYSICAL FACILITIES

25-B DCMR § 2000 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - MAINTAINING PREMISES, UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND LITTER

2000.1 The grounds surrounding a food processing operation under the control of the licensee shall be kept in a condition that will protect against the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food- packaging materials.

2000.2 The methods for adequate maintenance of grounds include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Properly storing or removing unnecessary equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used, removing litter and waste, and cutting weeds or grass within the immediate vicinity of the physical facility that may constitute an attractant, breeding place or harborage for pests.

(b) Maintaining roads and parking lots so that they do not constitute a source of contamination in areas where food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials are exposed.

(c) Adequately draining areas that may contribute contamination to food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials by seepage, foot-borne filth or providing a breeding place for pests.

2000.3 If the food processing operation's grounds are bordered by grounds not under the operator's control and not maintained in the manner described in section 2000.2, care shall be exercised in the plant by inspection, extermination, or other means to exclude pests, dirt, and filth that may be a source of contamination to food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

2000.4 Methods for maintaining a sanitary operation include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Providing sufficient space for placement of equipment and storage of materials; and

(b) Taking precautions to reduce the potential for contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials with microorganisms, chemicals, filth, or other extraneous material. The potential for contamination shall be reduced by adequate food safety controls and operating practices or effective design, including the separation of operations in which contamination is likely to occur, by one or more of the following means: location, time, partition, air flow, enclosed systems, or other effective means.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2001 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - REPAIRING

2001.1 The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2002 PHYSICAL FACILITIES- CLEANING FREQUENCY AND RESTRICTIONS

2002.1 The physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

2002.2 Except for cleaning that is necessary due to a spill or other accident, cleaning shall be done during periods when the least amount of food is exposed, such as after closing.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2003 PHYSICAL FACILITIES- CLEANING FLOORS, DUSTLESS METHODS

2003.1 Except as provided in section 2003.2, only dustless methods of cleaning shall be used, such as wet cleaning, vacuum cleaning, mopping with treated dust mops or sweeping using a broom and dust-arresting compounds. If mops or similar wet floor cleaning tools are used, at least one (1) service sink or one (1) curbed cleaning facility equipped with a floor drain and supplied with hot and cold water under pressure shall be provided and conveniently located.

2003.2 Spills or drippage on floors that occur between normal floor cleaning times may be cleaned:

(a) Without the use of dust-arresting compounds; and

(b) In the case of liquid spills or drippage, with the use of a small amount of absorbent compound, such as sawdust or diatomaceous earth, applied immediately before spot cleaning.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2004 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CLEANING VENTILATION SYSTEMS, NUISANCE, AND DISCHARGE PROHIBITION

2004.1 Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials.

2004.2 If vented to the outside, ventilation systems shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance, or unlawful discharge.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2005 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CLEANING MAINTENANCE TOOLS, PREVENTING CONTAMINATION*

2005.1 Food preparation sinks, handwashing sinks, and warewashing equipment shall not be used to clean maintenance tools, to prepare or hold maintenance materials, or for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid wastes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2006 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - DRYING MOPS

2006.1 After use, mops shall be placed in a position that allows them to air-dry without soiling walls, equipment, or supplies.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2007 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - ABSORBENT MATERIALS ON FLOORS, USE LIMITATION

2007.1 Except as specified in section 2003.2, sawdust, wood shavings, granular salt, baked clay, diatomaceous earth, or similar materials shall not be used on floors.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2008 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CLEANING OF PLUMBING FIXTURES

2008.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and well-maintained.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2009 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CONTROLLING PESTS*

2009.1 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting incoming shipments of food and supplies;N

(b) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests;N

(c) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control as specified in sections 2202, 2211 and 2212; and

(d) Eliminating harborage conditions.N

2009.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment's professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its licensed pest exterminator / contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2010 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, AND OTHER PESTS

2010.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition or the attraction of pests.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2011 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - STORING MAINTENANCE TOOLS

2011.1 Maintenance tools such as brooms, mops, vacuum cleaners, and similar items shall be:

(a) Stored so they do not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, food- contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials; and

(b) Stored in an orderly manner that facilitates cleaning the area used for storing the maintenance tools.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2012 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - PROHIBITING ANIMALS*

2012.1 Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas may be allowed in some areas of a food processing operation if the presence of the animals cannot result in contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food- packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B21 LABELING AND IDENTIFICATION OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-B DCMR § 2100 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS - IDENTIFYING INFORMATION, PROMINENCE*

2100.1 Containers of poisonous or toxic materials and personal care items shall bear a legible manufacturer's label.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2101 WORKING CONTAINERS - COMMON NAME*

2101.1 Working containers used for storing poisonous or toxic materials, such as cleaners and sanitizers taken from bulk supplies shall be clearly and individually identified with the common name of the material.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B22 OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES AND APPLICATIONS OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-B DCMR § 2200 STORAGE - SEPARATION*

2200.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be stored and transported so they can not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food- packaging materials by:

(a) Separating the poisonous or toxic materials by spacing or partitioning; and

(b) Locating the poisonous or toxic materials in an area that is not above food processing areas, equipment, utensils, or food-packaging materials. This paragraph does not apply to equipment and cleaners and sanitizers that are stored in warewashing areas for availability and convenience if the materials are stored to prevent contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2201 PRESENCE AND USE - RESTRICTION*

2201.1 Restricted-use pesticides shall be applied only by a certified applicator as defined in section 2 of the Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code § 8-401).

2201.2 Only the following toxic materials may be used or stored in a food processing operation where food is processed or exposed:

(a) Chemicals required for maintaining clean and sanitary conditions;

(b) Chemicals necessary for use in laboratory testing procedures;

(c) Chemicals necessary for plant and equipment maintenance and operation; and

(d) Chemicals necessary for use in the plant's operations.

2201.3 Toxic cleaning compounds, sanitizing agents, and pesticide chemicals shall be identified, held, and stored in a manner that protects against contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food- packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2202 PRESENCE AND USE - CONDITIONS OF USE*

2202.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be used according to:

(a) The Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code § 8-401 et seq.), and this Code;

(b) Manufacturer's use directions included in labeling, and, for a pesticide, manufacturer's label instructions that state use is allowed in a food processing operation; and

(c) The conditions of certification, if certification is required, for use of the pest control materials.

2202.2 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be applied so that:

(a) A hazard to employees or other persons is not constituted;

(b) Contamination including toxic residues due to drip, drain, fog, splash, or spray on food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food- packaging materials is prevented; and

(c) For restricted-use pesticides, contamination is prevented by:

(1) Removing items listed in paragraph (b);

(2) Covering items listed in paragraph (b) with impermeable covers;

(3) Taking other appropriate preventive actions; and

(4) Cleaning and sanitizing equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials after the application.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2203 CONTAINER PROHIBITIONS - POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL CONTAINERS*

2203.1 A container previously used to store poisonous or toxic materials shall not be used to store, transport, or dispense food.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2204 CHEMICALS - SANITIZERS, CRITERIA*

2204.1 Chemical sanitizers and other chemical antimicrobials applied to food-contact surfaces shall meet the requirements of 40 CFR 180.940 - Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients for use in antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact surface sanitizing solutions).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2205 CHEMICALS - CLEANING COMPOUNDS, SANITIZERS*

2205.1 Cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents used in cleaning and sanitizing procedures shall be free from undesirable microorganisms and shall be safe and adequate under the conditions of use.

2205.2 Compliance with this requirement may be verified by an effective means including, but not limited to, purchase of substances under a supplier's guarantee or certification, or examination of the substances for contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2206 CHEMICALS - WASHING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, CRITERIA*

2206.1 Chemicals used to wash or peel whole fruits and vegetables shall meet the requirements specified in 21 CFR 173.315 - Chemicals used in washing or to assist in the peeling of fruits and vegetables.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2207 CHEMICALS - BOILER WATER ADDITIVES, CRITERIA*

2207.1 Chemicals used as boiler water additives shall meet the requirements specified in 21 CFR 173.310 - Boiler water additives.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2208 CHEMICALS - DRYING AGENTS, CRITERIA*

2208.1 Drying agents used in conjunction with sanitization shall contain only components that are listed as one of the following:

(a) Generally recognized as safe for use in food as specified in 21 CFR Part 182 - Substances Generally Recognized as Safe or 21 CFR Part 184 - Direct Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe;

(b) Generally recognized as safe for the intended use as specified in 21 CFR Part 186 - Indirect Food Substances Affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe;

(c) Approved for use as a drying agent under a prior sanction specified in 21 CFR Part 181 - Prior Sanctioned Food Ingredients;

(d) Specifically regulated as an indirect food additive for use as a drying agent as specified in 21 CFR Parts 175 - 178 - Indirect Food Additives: Adhesives and Components of Coatings; Indirect Food Additives: Paper and Paperboard Components; Indirect Food Additives: Polymers; Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Production Aids, and Sanitizers; or

(e) Approved for use as a drying agent under the threshold of regulation process established by 21 CFR 170.39 - Threshold of regulation for substances used in food-contact articles.

2208.2 When sanitization is used with chemicals, the approval required in section 2208.1(c) or 2208.1(e) or the regulation as an indirect food additive required in section 2208.1(d) shall be specifically for use with chemical sanitizing solutions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2209 LUBRICANTS - INCIDENTAL FOOD CONTACT, CRITERIA*

2209.1 Lubricants shall meet the requirements specified in 21 CFR 178.3570 Lubricants with incidental food contact, if they are used on food-contact surfaces, on bearings and gears located on or within food-contact surfaces, or on bearings and gears that are located so that lubricants may leak, drip, or be forced into food or onto food-contact surfaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2210 PESTICIDES - RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDES, CRITERIA*

2210.1 Restricted use pesticides shall meet the requirements specified in 40 CFR 152.170 - Criteria for restriction to use by certified applicators.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2211 PESTICIDES - RODENT BAIT STATIONS*

2211.1 Rodent bait shall be contained in a covered, tamper-resistant bait station.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2212 PESTICIDES - TRACKING POWDERS, PEST CONTROL AND MONITORING*

2212.1 A tracking powder pesticide may not be used in a food processing operation, except as specified in section 2212.2.

2212.2 If used, a nontoxic tracking powder such as talcum or flour may not contaminate food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2213 FIRST AID SUPPLIES - STORAGE*

2213.1 First aid supplies that are in a food processing operation for the employees' use shall be:

(a) Labeled as specified in section 2100 of this Code; and

(b) Stored in a kit or a container that is located to prevent the contamination of food, equipment, utensils, food-contact surfaces, and food-packing materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2214 OTHER PERSONAL CARE ITEMS - STORAGE

2214.1 Employees shall store their personal care items in separate cabinets or storage lockers specified in section 1911.3, except as specified in section 2213.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B23 ADMINISTRATION AND CERTIFICATION

25-B DCMR § 2300 ADMINISTRATION - DEPARTMENT RECORDKEEPING

2300.1 The Department shall maintain records to demonstrate the effective administration of a District-wide shellfish safety and sanitation program to regulate:

(a) Shellfish processing procedures and facilities;

(b) Product labeling;

(c) Storage, handling and packing;

(d) Shellfish shipment in interstate commerce; and

(e) Shellfish dealers.

2300.2 These records shall be maintained in a central file and made available to any interested person upon request, consistent with applicable District and federal law.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2301 CERTIFICATES - PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION

2301.1 No person shall act as a shellfish dealer prior to obtaining a certificate from the Department.

2301.2 A person who wants to be a certified as a shellfish dealer shall:

(a) Apply to the Department for certification or recertification pursuant to section 2302;

(b) Have and implement a HACCP plan, have a program of sanitation monitoring and record keeping, and conform to all other requirements listed in the most recent edition of the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish;

(c) Have a permanent business address at which inspections of facilities, activities, or equipment can be conducted and records are maintained; and

(d) Pay the appropriate license fee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2302 CERTIFICATES - APPLICATION PROCEDURE

2302.1 Any person who engages in the wholesale handling, shipping, or repacking of shellfish shall be deemed to be a shellfish dealer (hereinafter "dealer") and shall apply for certification or renewal of certification as a shellfish dealer in writing on a form supplied by the Department. The certification shall authorize the dealer to conduct a shellfish operation at a specified location. Applicants shall provide all information required on the form, including:

(a) Name of the owner of the business;

(b) Mailing address and telephone number of the owner of the business;

(c) Address of the shellfish operation;

(d) Trade name of the shellfish operation;

(e) Name and address of corporate officers;

(f) Name and country of registered agent, if applicable;

(g) Type and source of shellfish to be handled;

(h) Type of operation to be carried out; and

(i) Whether shellfish will be sold in interstate commerce.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2303 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS - TYPES OF SHELLFISH DEALER CERTIFICATIONS

2303.1 Any dealer who shucks and packs shellfish shall be certified as a shucker packer. A shucker-packer may act as a shellstock shipper, or reshipper, or may repack shellfish originating from other dealers.

2303.2 Any dealer who repacks shucked shellfish shall be certified as a repacker. A repacker may act as a shellstock shipper or reshipper.

2303.3 Any dealer who buys, repacks, or sells shellstock shall be certified as a shellstock shipper. A shellstock shipper may also ship shellfish shucked by a certified shucker-packer.

2303.4 Any dealer who only purchases shellstock or shucked shellfish from dealers and sells the product without repacking or relabeling to other dealers, wholesalers, or retailers shall be certified as a reshipper.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2304 DEALER CERTIFICATION - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2304.1 An applicant requesting an initial certification or a dealer seeking to renew an existing certification shall be subject to a comprehensive, onsite inspection and shall meet the requirements specified in section 2305.1.

2304.2 Inspection of shellfish operations shall be conducted only by the Department's shellfish standardization inspector. The inspection shall be documented on the appropriate inspection form within one hundred and twenty (120) business days immediately prior to the issuance of an initial or renewal certification.

2304.3 The Department shall issue one (1) certification to a dealer for each location. An applicant or dealer may obtain more than one (1) certification if each shellfish operation:

(a) Is operated as a separate entity; and

(b) Is not found at the same location.

2304.4 The Department may permit separate certified dealers to share a facility. A unique certification shall be issued by the Department to each dealer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2305 DEALER CERTIFICATION - INITIAL REQUIREMENTS

2305.1 An initial certification shall be issued by the Department only when the applicant has met the following requirements:

(a) The applicant has an HACCP plan approved by the Department; and

(b) Not more than two (2) critical violations and two (2) noncritical violations are cited during an inspection of the dealer's operation in accordance with section 2304.1.

2305.2 If the dealer's operation contains violations, the initial certification shall include a compliance schedule to correct any violations not corrected by the dealer during the inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2306 DEALER CERTIFICATION - RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

2306.1 A dealer shall make application for certification renewal annually in accordance with section 2302. The Department shall not renew the certification for any dealer unless the dealer:

(a) Meets the requirements specified in section 2305.1; and

(b) Agrees to a compliance schedule to address any new violations not corrected by the dealer during the inspection.

2306.2 The number of violations allowed for renewal applications shall include carry over violations from an existing compliance schedule approved by the Department and new violations identified during the certification renewal inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2307 CERTIFICATES - RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

2307.1 The Department shall issue a shellfish certification upon receipt of the application and upon approval of the facilities and sanitary condition of the shellfish operation.

2307.2 When the Department certifies an applicant to become a dealer, the Department shall notify the FDA for the purpose of having the dealer listed in the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List (ICSSL). The notice shall be in the format of FDA Form 3038.

2307.3 The Department shall notify the FDA for the purpose of having the dealer removed from the ICSSL whenever a dealer's certification is suspended or revoked.

2307.4 The Department shall inspect current certifications, which the dealer shall keep on file at the shellfish operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2308 DEALER CERTIFICATION - RECORDICEEPING REQUIREMENTS

2308.1 Each dealer shall maintain adequate records documenting compliance with certification requirements for at least three (3) years. These records shall include:

(a) Inspection reports of dealers;

(b) Notification letters and enforcement actions;

(c) Shellfish sample results and follow-up actions taken;

(d) Records of complaints or inquiries and follow-up actions taken; and

(e) Administrative hearing transcripts and records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2309 CERTIFICATES - EXPIRATION DATE

2309.1 All shellfish certifications shall expire on June 30th of each year and shall be renewed annually. In no case shall a dealer conduct a shellfish operation without a valid certification issued by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2310 CERTIFICATES - NOT TRANSFERABLE

2310.1 A shellfish certification shall not be transferable with respect to persons or locations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2311 CERTIFICATES - DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION

2311.1 A certified dealer shall submit a "Statement of Discontinuance of Operations" to the Department at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing its operations in accordance with section 3104.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2312 DEALER CERTIFICATION - REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF CERTIFICATES

2312.1 A dealer whose certification has been suspended or revoked in accordance with section 3521.1, or whose certification is automatically withdrawn from the ICSSL on the date of expiration shall not conduct shellfish operations at any facility that no longer has a valid certification until the dealer meets the requirements of section 2305 or 2306, obtains a new certification from the Department for the facility, and is listed on the ICSSL pursuant to section 2307.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B24 TAGS, LABELING & RECORDKEEPING

25-B DCMR § 2400 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS - DEALER TAGS FOR SHELLFISH

2400.1 A dealer shall buy shellfish only from sources certified by the Department or listed in the current ICSSL.

2400.2 A dealer shall receive shellfish with the dealer's tag or label affixed to each container of shellfish and the dealer's tag or label shall remain affixed until the container is:

(a) Shipped;

(b) Emptied to wash, grade, or pack the shellfish; or

(c) Emptied for repacking of shellfish.

2400.3 The dealer shall affix a dealer tag or label in accordance with sections 2401 and 2403 on each new container in which the shellfish is placed.

2400.4 The dealer's tags shall be:

(a) Durable, waterproof, and sanctioned by the Department prior to use; and

(b) At least two and five eights inches (2 5/8 in.) by five and one-fourth inches (5 1/4 in.) in size.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2401 DEALER TAGS - SHELLSTOCK

2401.1 The dealer's tag on shellstock shall contain the following indelible, legible information in the order specified below:

(a) The dealer's name and address;

(b) The dealer's certification number as assigned by the Department and the original shellstock shipper's certification number;

(c) The date of harvest;

(d) The most precise identification of the harvest location as is practicable, including the initials of the state of harvest and the designation of the growing area by indexing, administrative or geographic designation. If growing areas have not been indexed, then an appropriate geographical or administrative designation shall be used;

(e) If the shellstock has been transported across state lines and placed in wet storage in a dealer's operation, the statement:

"This product is a product of (name of state) and was wet stored at (facility certification number) from (date) to (date)";

(f) The type and quantity of shellstock; and

(g) The following statement in bold capitalized type on each tag:

"This tag is required to be attached until container is empty or is retagged and thereafter kept on file for ninety (90) days";

(h) All shellstock intended for raw consumption shall include a consumer advisory. The following statement, or an equivalent statement, shall be included on all shellstock:

"Retailers, inform your customers 'Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.' "

2401.2 If the shellstock is removed from the original container, the tag on the new container shall meet the requirements specified in section 2400.4 and this section.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2402 LOT TAGGING - DURING INTERMEDIATE PROCESSING

2402.1 When the shellstock is removed from the original container, the dealer shall:

(a) Keep the dealer's tag that was affixed to the original container on file for ninety (90) days;

(b) Keep track of the growing area and date of harvest for the shellstock by identifying and recording this information from the lot containers of shellstock commingled during intermediate processing; and

(c) Maintain the lot identity of all shellstock during any intermediate stage of processing.

2402.2 A dealer receiving bulk tagged lots of shellstock must have an intermediate processing plan approved by the Department to ensure that each lot of shellstock is kept separate and identified in a way that prevents misidentification.

2402.3 A dealer may tag a lot container of shellstock in lieu of meeting the requirements specified in sections 2400.2 and 2400.3 for a dealer tag on each individual container, if the dealer has an intermediate processing plan which establishes the procedures for tagging lots during the washing, packing or staging of shellfish and the plan is approved by the Department..

2402.4 If shellstock are sold in bulk, the dealer shall prepare a transaction record prior to shipment. This transaction record shall contain all the information required in section 2405 in addition to the name of the consignee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2403 SHUCKED SHELLFISH LABELING

2403.1 If a dealer stores shucked shellfish under refrigerated conditions using in- plant re-usable containers, the dealer shall maintain lot integrity.

2403.2 If a shucker-packer uses returnable containers to transport shucked shellfish between dealers for the purpose of further processing or packing, the returnable containers are exempt from the labeling requirements in this section. When returnable containers are used, the shipment shall be accompanied by a transaction record containing:

(a) The original shucker-packer's name and certification number;

(b) The shucking date; and

(c) The quantity of shellfish per container and the total number of containers shipped.

2403.3 If a dealer uses master shipping cartons, the master cartons are exempt from the labeling requirements in this section when the individual containers within the carton are properly labeled.

2403.4 At a minimum, a dealer shall label each individual package containing fresh or frozen shucked shellfish meat in a legible and indelible form in accordance with 21 CFR 101.3 - Identity labeling of food in packaged form; and 16 CFR 502.3 - Prohibited acts.

2403.5 Each individual package containing less than sixty-four fluid ounces (64 fl. oz.) of fresh or frozen shellfish shall be labeled with the following information:

(a) The shucker-packer's or repacker's certification number; and

(b) A "Sell by" date which provides a reasonable subsequent shelf-life or the words "Best if used by" followed by a date when the product would be expected to reach the end of its shelf-life. The date shall consist of the abbreviation for the month and number of the day of the month. For fresh frozen shellfish, the year shall be added to the date.

2403.6 Each individual package containing sixty-four or more fluid ounces (64 fl. oz.) of fresh or frozen shellfish shall be labeled with the following information:

(a) The shucker-packer's or repacker's certification number; and

(b) The words "DATE SHUCKED" followed by the date shucked located on both the lid and sidewall or bottom of the container;

(1) The date shall consist of either the abbreviation for the month and number of the day of the month or in Julian format (YDDD), the last digit of the four digit year and the three digit number corresponding the day of the year; and

(2) For fresh frozen shellfish, the year shall be added to the date (for non-Julian format).

2403.7 If the dealer thaws and repacks frozen shellfish, the dealer shall label the shellfish container as "previously frozen".

2403.8 If the dealer freezes fresh shucked shellfish, the dealer shall label all frozen shellfish as frozen using type of equal size and prominence immediately adjacent to the type of the shellfish and shall add the year to the date (for non-Julian format).

2403.9 If the dealer uses lot codes to track shellfish containers, the lot codes shall be distinct and set apart from any date listed on the container.

2403.10 If the dealer elects to repack shellfish, the dealer shall pack and label all shellfish in accordance with this section except that the original date of shucking shall be added to the new repacked container pursuant to section 2403.6 or the original date of shucking shall be used in establishing the "Sell by date" pursuant to section 2403.5.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2404 SHIPPING DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS

2404.1 Each shellfish shipment shall be accompanied by a shipping document.

2404.2 The shipping document shall contain:

(a) The name, address, and certification number of the shipping dealer;

(b) The name and address of the major consignee; and

(c) The kind and quantity of the shellfish product.

2404.3 The receiving dealer shall:

(a) Maintain in a file a copy of the completed shipping document; and

(b) Make the shipping document available to the Department upon request.

2404.4 If the shipment is subdivided and shipped to different dealers, each receiving dealer shall maintain records sufficient to trace the portion received back to the original shipment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2405 TRANSACTION RECORDS

2405.1 Each dealer shall have a business address at which transaction records are maintained.

2405.2 Each dealer shall maintain complete, accurate, and legible records of information required to comply with this section in a form authorized by the Department.

2405.3 Transaction records shall be sufficient to:

(a) Document that the shellfish are from a source authorized under this chapter;

(b) Permit a container of shellfish to be traced back to the specific incoming lot of shucked shellfish from which it was taken;

(c) Permit a lot of shucked shellfish or a lot of shellstock to be traced back to the growing area(s), date(s) of harvest, and if possible, the harvester or group of harvesters.

2405.4 Purchase and sales shall be recorded:

(a) In a permanently bound ledger book; or

(b) Using other recording methods acceptable to and authorized by the Department.

2405.5 The transaction records shall be retained:

(a) In the case of fresh shellfish, for a minimum of one (1) year; and

(b) In the case of frozen shellfish, for at least two (2) years or the shelf-life of the product, whichever is longer.

2405.6 If computer records are maintained, the Department shall approve the format and its use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B25 HACCP PLAN

25-B DCMR § 2500 HACCP PLAN - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2500.1 Every dealer shall conduct a hazard analysis to determine the food safety hazards that are reasonably likely to occur for each kind of shellfish product processed by that dealer and to identify the preventive measures that the dealer can apply to control those hazards. Such food safety hazards can be introduced both within and outside the processing plant environment, including food safety hazards that can occur before, during, and after harvest.

2500.2 Each dealer shall have and implement a written HACCP Plan. The HACCP Plan shall be specific to:

(a) Each location where shellfish products are processed by that dealer; and

(b) Each kind of shellfish product processed by the dealer, except as specified in section 2500.3;

2500.3 The plan may group kinds of shellfish products together, or group kinds of production methods together, if the food safety hazard, critical control points, critical limits, and procedures required to be identified and performed in section 2501.1 are identical for all shellfish products so grouped or for all production methods so grouped.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2501 HACCP PLAN - MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

2501.1 The HACCP Plan shall, at a minimum, comply with the requirements of section 704 and:

(a) List the food safety hazards that are reasonably likely to occur for:

(1) Natural toxins;

(2) Microbiological contamination;

(3) Chemical contamination;

(4) Pesticides;

(5) Drug residues;

(6) Unapproved use of direct or indirect food or color additives; and

(7) Physical hazards;

(b) List the critical control points for each of the identified food safety hazards, including as appropriate:

(1) Critical control points designed to control food safety hazards introduced outside the processing plant environment, including food safety hazards that occur before, during, and after harvest. At a minimum, the critical control points shall include those identified in chapter 27, as applicable; and

(2) Critical control points designed to control food safety hazards that could be introduced in the processing plant environment. At a minimum, the critical control points shall include those identified in chapter 27, as applicable;

(c) List the critical limits that must be met at each of the critical control points. At a minimum, the critical limits shall include those listed in chapter 27, as applicable. These limits shall be met as components of good manufacturing practice;

(d) List the procedures, and frequency thereof, that shall be used to monitor each of the critical control points to ensure compliance with the critical limits;

(e) Include any corrective action plans that have been developed to be followed in response to deviations from critical limits at critical control points;

(f) Provide for a record keeping system that documents the monitoring of the critical control points. The records shall contain the actual values and observations obtained during monitoring; and

(g) List the verification procedures, and frequency thereof, that the dealer shall use in accordance with section 2503.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2502 HACCP PLAN - CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

2502.1 Whenever a deviation from a critical limit occurs, a dealer shall take orrective action either by:

(a) Following a corrective action plan that is appropriate for the particular deviation; or

(b) Following the procedures in section 2502.2.

2502.2 When a deviation from a critical limit occurs and the dealer does not have a orrective action plan that is appropriate for that deviation, the dealer shall:

(a) Segregate and hold the affected product, at least until the requirements of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this subsection are met;

(b) Perform or obtain a review to determine the acceptability of the affected product for distribution. The review shall be performed by an individual or individuals who are qualified through training or experience, in accordance with section 2505, to perform such a review;

(c) Take corrective action, when necessary, with respect to the affected product to ensure that no product enters commerce that is either injurious to health or is otherwise adulterated as a result of the deviation;

(d) Take corrective action, when necessary, to correct the cause of the deviation; and

(e) Perform or obtain a timely reassessment of the HACCP Plan by an individual or individuals qualified in accordance with section 2505 to determine whether the HACCP Plan requires modification to reduce the risk of a recurrence of the deviation, and modify the HACCP Plan as necessary.

2502.3 All corrective actions taken in accordance with this section shall be fully documented in records that are subject to verification in accordance with section 2503 and the record keeping requirements of section 2504.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2503 HACCP PLAN - VERIFICATION

2503.1 Every dealer shall verify that the HACCP Plan is adequate to control food safety hazards that are reasonably likely to occur, and that the plan is being effectively implemented. Verification shall include, at a minimum:

(a) A reassessment of the adequacy of the HACCP Plan, which shall be conducted at least annually and whenever any changes occur that could affect the hazard analysis or alter the HACCP Plan. An individual or individuals who are qualified in accordance with section 2505 shall perform the reassessment. The HACCP Plan shall be modified immediately whenever a reassessment reveals that the plan is no longer adequate to fully meet the requirements of section 2501;

(b) Ongoing verification activities including:

(1) A review of any consumer complaints that have been received by the dealer to determine whether they relate to performance at critical control points or reveal the existence of unidentified critical control points;

(2) The calibration of process-monitoring instruments; and

(3) At the option of the dealer, the performance of periodic end product or in-process testing; and

(c) A review, including signing and dating, by an individual who is qualified in accordance with section 2505, of the records that document:

(1) The monitoring of critical control points. The purpose of this review shall be, at a minimum, to ensure that the records are complete and to verify that documented values are within the critical limits This review shall occur within one (1) week after the day that the records are made;

(2) The taking of corrective actions. The purpose of this review shall be, at a minimum, to ensure that the records are complete and to verify that appropriate corrective actions were taken in accordance with section 2502. This review shall occur within one (1) week after the day that the records are made; and

(3) The calibrating of any process monitoring instruments used at critical control points and the performance of any periodic end- product or in-process testing that is part of the dealer's verification activities. The purpose of these reviews shall be to ensure that the records are complete, and that these activities occurred in accordance with the dealer's written procedures. These reviews shall occur within a reasonable time after the records are made.

2503.2 Dealers shall immediately follow the procedures in section 2502 whenever any verification procedure, including the review of a consumer complaint, reveals the need to take a corrective action.

2503.3 The calibration of process-monitoring instruments, and the performance of any periodic end-product and in-process testing in accordance with section 2503.1(b)(2) and 2503.1(b)(3) shall be documented in records that are subject to the record keeping requirements of section 2504.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2504 HACCP PLAN - RECORDKEEPING

2504.1 All records required by this chapter shall include:

(a) The name and location of the dealer;

(b) The date and time of the activity that the record reflects;

(c) The signature or initials of the person performing the operation; and

(d) Where appropriate, the identity of the product and the production code, if any. Processing and other information shall be entered on records at the time that it is observed.

2504.2 All records required by chapters 24 and 25 of this subtitle shall be retained at the shellfish operation for at least one (1) year after the date they were prepared in the case of refrigerated products and for at least two (2) years after the date they were prepared in the case of frozen products.

2504.3 Records that relate to the general adequacy of equipment or processes being used by at a shellfish operation, including the results of scientific studies and evaluations, shall be retained at the shellfish operation for at least two (2) years after the scientific data has been produced.

2504.4 If the processing facility is closed for a prolonged period between seasonal operations, or if record storage capacity is limited on a processing vessel or at a remote processing site, the records may be transferred to another reasonably accessible location at the end of the seasonal operations but shall be immediately returned to the processing facility for review by the Department upon request.

2504.5 All records required by chapters 24 and 25 of this subtitle and HACCP Plans required by chapter 25 shall be available for official review and copying at reasonable times.

2504.6 Reused shellstock containers shall be retagged and are subject to the requirements of sections 2401 through 2403.

2504.7 The maintenance of records on computers is acceptable, provided that appropriate controls are implemented to ensure the integrity of the electronic data and electronic signatures.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2505 HACCP PLAN - TRAINING

2505.1 At a minimum, the following functions shall be performed by an individual who has successfully completed training in the application of HACCP principles to shellfish processing:

(a) Development of a HACCP Plan, which may include adapting a model or generic-type HACCP plan that is appropriate for a specific shellfish operation, in order to meet the requirements of section 2501.1;

(b) Reassessment and modification of the HACCP plan in accordance with the corrective action procedures specified in section 2502.2(e) and the verification activities specified in section 2503.1(a);

(c) Performance of the record review required by sections 2502.2(b) and 2503.1(c).

2505.2 An individual who performs the functions described in section 2505.1 shall provide the Department, upon request, with a copy of their certificate of completion of training for the application of HACCP principles for shellfish processing.

2505.3 Job experience may qualify an individual to perform the functions specified in section 2505.1. The individual performing these functions need not be an employee of the dealer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B26 TRANSPORTATION

25-B DCMR § 2600 SHIPMENT ACCEPTABILITY

2600.1 Shellfish shipments shall be considered acceptable when:

(a) Shipments are properly identified with tags or labels and shipping documents;

(b) Shellstock is alive and cooled to an internal shellstock body temperature of fifty degrees Fahrenheit (50° F) (ten degrees Centigrade (10° C)) or less;

(c) Shucked shellfish is cooled to a temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less; and

(d) All other conditions of shipment in this chapter are met.

2600.2 Shellfish shall be rejected when:

(a) Shellfish are not properly identified with tags or labels, or shipping documents;

(b) The internal shellstock body temperature exceeds sixty degrees Fahrenheit (60° F) (fifteen and six tenths degrees Centigrade (15.6° C));

(c) Shucked shellfish exceeds fifty degrees Fahrenheit (50° F) (ten degrees Centigrade (10° C)); or

(d) The Department determines that the product is adulterated or unsafe for human consumption.

2600.3 The Department shall notify the shipping dealer, the receiving dealer, and the state where the shipment originated of the shipment's rejection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2601 VEHICLES USED TO TRANSPORT SHELLFISH

2601.1 Any dealer who transports shellfish shall ensure that all trucks used to transport shellfish are properly constructed, operated, and maintained to prevent contamination, deterioration, and decomposition of the shellfish.

2601.2 Storage bins on trucks or other vehicles used in the transport of shellstock or direct marketing shall be kept clean with potable water and provided with effective drainage.

2601.3 Shellfish shall be transported in refrigerated trucks when the shellfish has been previously refrigerated or when ambient air temperature and time of travel are such that unacceptable bacterial growth or deterioration may occur.

2601.4 Pre-chilling of trucks or other vehicles is required when ambient air temperatures are such that unacceptable bacterial growth or deterioration may occur.

2601.5 When mechanical refrigeration units are used, the units shall be:

(a) Equipped with automatic controls; and

(b) Capable of maintaining the ambient air temperature in the storage area at temperatures of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less.

2601.6 Any ice used to cool shellfish during transport shall meet the requirements of section 901 of this Code.

2601.7 Cats, dogs, and other animals shall not be allowed in any part of the truck or other vehicle where shellfish is stored.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2602 RECEIVING SHELLFISH

2602.1 The dealer shall reject or discard any shellfish shipments that:

(a) Do not originate from a licensed harvester or dealer; or

(b) Are unwholesome or adulterated, inadequately protected, or whose source cannot be identified.

2602.2 Transportation agents or common carriers used by a dealer are not required to be certified by the Department but must be properly registered with the appropriate federal regulatory agency.

2602.3 The dealer shall:

(a) Inspect incoming shellfish shipments to ensure that the shipments are received under the conditions required in this chapter;

(b) Ensure that shellstock are not permitted to remain without ice, mechanical refrigeration, or other approved means of lowering the internal body temperature of the shellstock to, or maintaining it at, fifty degrees Fahrenheit (50° F) (ten degrees Centigrade (10° C)) or less for more than two (2) hours at points of transfer such as loading docks;

(c) Ensure that shucked shellfish are not permitted to remain without ice, mechanical refrigeration, or other approved means of maintaining shellfish temperature at forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less; and

(d) Ensure that frozen shellfish remain frozen.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2603 TRANSPORTATION - CONTAINERS CONSTRUCTION AND LEANING

2603.1 All containers used to transport shellfish shall be:

(a) Constructed to allow for easy cleaning; and

(b) Operated and maintained to prevent product contamination.

2603.2 All containers shall be cleaned with:

(a) Potable water; and

(b) Detergents, sanitizers, and other supplies acceptable for food contact surfaces.

2603.3 All containers used for storing shellfish shall be clean and fabricated from safe materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2604 TRANSPORTATION - PROTECTION FROM CONTAMINATION

2604.1 When the entire cargo consists of shellfish products only, except for bulk shipments, shellstock shipments shall be shipped on pallets. If the conveyance does not have a channeled floor, pallets shall be used for all shellfish.

2604.2 When the conveyance has mixed cargos, the shellfish shall be shipped as part of a mixed cargo of seafood or other food products only when:

(a) Shellfish products are protected from contamination by the other cargo;

(b) All cargo is placed on pallets; and

(c) No other cargo is placed on or above the shellfish unless all cargo is packed in sealed, crush resistant, waterproof containers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2605 TRANSPORTATION - SHIPPING TIME

2605.1 When the shipping time is four (4) hours or less:

(a) The dealer shall ship the shellfish well iced or using other acceptable means of refrigeration;

(b) When mechanical refrigeration units are used, the units shall be equipped with automatic controls and shall be capable of maintaining the ambient air in the storage area at temperatures of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less;

(c) The dealer shall not be required to provide thermal recorders during shipment; and

(d) Lack of ice or other acceptable types of refrigeration shall be considered an unsatisfactory shipping condition.

2605.2 When the shipping time is greater than four (4) hours, the dealer shall ship all shellfish in:

(a) Mechanically refrigerated conveyances that are equipped with automatic controls and are capable of maintaining the ambient air in the storage area at temperatures of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less; or

(b) Containers with an internal ambient air temperature maintained at or below temperatures of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less.

2605.3 Unless the dealer has an approved HACCP Plan with an alternate means of monitoring time-temperature, any dealer who transports shellfish shall ensure that a suitable time-temperature recording device accompanies each shipment of shellfish.

2605.4 Dealers who transport shellfish shall note on the temperature-indicating device the date and time the shellfish was loaded for transport and the date and time the shellfish was unloaded upon reaching its destination.

2605.5 Each receiving dealer shall write the date and time on the temperature-indicating device, if appropriate, when the shipment is received and the doors of the conveyance or the containers are opened.

2605.6 The final receiving dealer shall keep the time-temperature recording chart or other record of time and temperature on file and shall make it available to the Department upon request.

2605.7 An inoperative temperature-indicating device shall be considered as no recording device.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B27 SPECIFIC CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS

25-B DCMR § 2700 SHUCKING AND PACKING REQUIREMENTS - SHELLSTOCK OURCES & STORAGE

2700.1 The dealer shall shuck and pack only shellstock that is from a source certified by the Department or listed in the ICSSL; and identified with a tag on each container or a transaction record for each bulk shipment.

2700.2 The dealer shall ensure that, once placed under temperature control and until sale to a subsequent dealer or the final consumer, shellstock is:

(a) Iced or placed and stored in a storage area or conveyance maintained at forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less;

(b) Not permitted to remain without ice, mechanical refrigeration or other approved methods of refrigeration for more than two (2) hours at points of transfer such as loading docks; and

(c) Not placed in wet storage.

2700.3 The dealer that processes the shellstock shall ensure that:

(a) For shellstock that has not been refrigerated prior to shucking, shucked meats are chilled to an internal temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less within three (3) hours of shucking;

(b) For shellstock refrigerated prior to shucking, shucked meats are chilled to an internal temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less within four (4) hours of removal from refrigeration;

(c) If heat shock is used, once heat shocked shellstock is shucked, the shucked shellfish meats are cooled to forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less within two (2) hours after the heat shock process; and

(d) When heat shock shellstock are cooled and held under refrigeration for later shucking, the heat shocked shellstock are cooled to an internal temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) within two (2) hours from time of heat shock.

2700.4 The dealer shall store shucked and packed shellfish in covered containers at an ambient air temperature in the storage area of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less or covered with ice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2701 SHUCKED SHELLFISH REPACKING REQUIREMENTS

2701.1 The dealer receiving shellfish shall repack only shellfish that:

(a) Originated from a dealer; and

(b) Are identified with a tag or label as specified in sections 2401 through 2403.

2701.2 The dealer processing shellfish shall ensure that repacked shellfish:

(a) Do not exceed an internal temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) for more than two (2) hours; and

(b) Are maintained at a temperature less than forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) in any portion of frozen shellfish thawed for repacking.

2701.3 The dealer shall store repacked, shucked shellfish in covered containers at n ambient temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less or covered in ice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2702 SHELLSTOCK SHIPPER RECEIVING REQUIREMENTS

2702.1 The dealer receiving shellstock shall ship or repack only shellstock obtained from:

(a) Sources certified by the Department or listed in the most recent or current ICSSL;

(b) A licensed harvester who has:

(1) Harvested the shellstock from an approved or conditionally approved area in the open status as identified by the tag; and

(2) Identified the shellstock with a tag on each container or transaction record on each bulk shipment; or

(c) A dealer who has identified the shellstock with a tag on each container.

2702.2 The dealer storing shellstock shall ensure that, once placed under temperature control and until sale to the processor or final consumer, the shellstock is:

(a) Iced or placed in a storage area or conveyance maintained at forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less;

(b) Not permitted to remain without ice, mechanical refrigeration or other approved methods of refrigeration for more than two (2) hours at points of transfer, including but not limited to loading docks; and

(c) Not placed in wet storage.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2703 RESHIPPING REQUIREMENTS

2703.1 The dealer shall reship only shellfish received that is:

(a) From a source certified by the Department or listed in the ICSSL;

(b) Identified with a tag as specified sections 2400, 2401, and 2402, or a label as specified in section 2403; and

(c) At a temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C)) or less.

2703.2 The dealer shall ensure that, once placed under temperature control and until sale to the processor or final consumer, shellfish is:

(a) Iced or placed in a storage area or conveyance maintained at forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2° C) or less;

(b) Not permitted to remain without ice, mechanical refrigeration, or other approved means of refrigeration for more than two (2) hours at points of transfer such as loading docks; and

(c) Not placed in wet storage.

2703.3 The dealer shall store shucked shellfish at a temperature of forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (45° F) (seven and two tenths degrees Centigrade (7.2 ° C)) or less.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B28 REQUIREMENTS FOR SANITATION AND PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION

25-B DCMR § 2800 SAFETY OF WATER SUPPLY

2800.1 The dealer shall provide a water supply that meets the requirements of sections 1300 through 1303

.

2800.2 Any steam used in shellfish processing or that comes in contact with food contact surfaces shall be free from additives or deleterious substances.

2800.3 Ice used in the processing, storage, or transport of shellstock or shucked shellfish shall:

(a) Be made on-site from potable water in a commercial ice machine; or

(b) Come from a licensed ice manufacturing plant.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2801 SHELLSTOCK WASHING

2801.1 Water from a potable water supply shall be used to wash shellstock.

2801.2 If the dealer uses any system to wash shellstock that recirculates water, the dealer shall:

(a) Obtain approval from the Department for any construction or remodeling of the system;

(b) Provide a water treatment and disinfection system to treat an adequate quantity of water to a quality acceptable for shellstock washing which, after disinfection, meets the coliform standards for drinking water, and does not leave any unacceptable residues in the shellstock; and

(c) Test bacteriological water quality daily.

2801.3 The dealer may use ultra-violet disinfection in the recirculating wash water system, provided that the turbidity of the water to be disinfected shall not exceed twenty (20) nephelometric turbidity units (NTUs) measured using the method in the APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2802 STORAGE AND HANDLING - SHELLSTOCK AND OTHER SHELLFISH

2802.1 A dealer shall ensure that shellstock is:

(a) Alive;

(b) Reasonably free of sediment; and

(c) Culled.

2802.2 The dealer shall inspect incoming shipments and shall reject dead or contaminated shellstock.

2802.3 A dealer that uses heat shock to prepare shellstock for shucking shall:

(a) Post the schedule for the heat shock process in a conspicuous location;

(b) Ensure that all responsible persons are familiar with the requirements of the process; and

(c) Cool all hot dipped shellstock immediately after the heat shock process by:

(1) Dipping in an ice bath; or

(2) Using flowing potable water.

2802.4 If a heat shock water tank is used, the dealer shall completely drain and flush the tank at three (3) hour intervals or less so that all mud and debris that have accumulated in the dip tank are eliminated.

2802.5 The dealer shall not allow the use of dip buckets for hand or knife rinsing during shucking.

2802.6 The dealer shall completely empty shucking buckets at the packing room so that no overage is returned to the shucker.

2802.7 After shucking, the dealer shall wash, blow, and rinse all shellfish meats in accordance with the provisions required for oysters in 21 CFR 161.130 - Oysters.

2802.8 The dealer shall thoroughly drain, clean as necessary, and pack shucked shellfish meats promptly after delivery to the packing room.

2802.9 The dealer shall conduct packing activities so as to conform to applicable food additive regulations.

2802.10 A dealer who stores or repacks shellstock shall have a facility or make arrangements to use a facility that has been approved by the Department for the proper storage or repacking of shellstock.

2802.11 The dealer shall store packaged shellfish, if they are to be frozen, at an ambient temperature of zero degrees Fahrenheit (0° F) (negative seventeen and eight tenths degrees Centigrade (-17.8° C)) or less. The shellfish shall be frozen solid within twelve (12) hours following the initiation of freezing.

2802.12 The dealer shall not have on the premises any usable containers or container covers bearing a certification number different from the one issued for those premises unless the dealer is able to verify through the ICSSL the legitimate source of the containers and the containers contain shellfish from that source.

2802.13 The dealer shall repack shucked shellfish meats only into containers labeled with the dealer's authorized certification number.

2802.14 The dealer shall not commingle, sort, or repack shellstock or shucked shellfish from different lots during shucking, packing or repacking unless the dealer is included in a commingling plan that has been approved by the Department, and shall not remove or alter any existing tag or label during reshipping.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2803 EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS

2803.1 The dealer shall use only equipment and utensils, including approved plastic ware and finished product containers, that comply with section 1200 and are:

(a) Constructed in a manner and with materials that can be cleaned, sanitized, maintained and replaced in a manner that prevents contamination of shellfish products; and

(b) Free from exposed screws, bolts, or rivet heads on food contact surfaces; and

(c) Fabricated from food grade materials.

2803.2 Shucking blocks shall be:

(a) Easily cleanable;

(b) Fabricated from safe material;

(c) Solid, one piece construction; and

(d) Easily removed from the shucking bench, unless the block is an integral part of the bench.

2803.3 All equipment used in heat shock processing shall meet the requirements of this section.

2803.4 All equipment used to handle ice shall be kept clean and stored in a sanitary manner, and shall meet the construction requirements in sections 2803.1 and 2803.2.

2803.5 The dealer shall provide a temperature measuring device accurate to plus or minus two degrees Fahrenheit (± 2° F) (plus or minus one degree Centigrade (±1° C)) for use in monitoring product temperatures.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2804 CLEANING AND SANITIZING OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, CONTAINERS, FOOD CONTACT SURFACES, AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES

2804.1 The dealer shall use easily cleanable, corrosion resistant, impervious materials, free from cracks to construct:

(a) Shucking benches and contiguous walls;

(b) Stands or stalls and stools for shuckers; and

(c) Any other non-food contact surfaces in shellfish storage or handling areas.

2804.2 Shucking benches shall drain completely and rapidly, and shall drain away from any shellfish on the benches.

2804.3 The dealer shall ensure that all joints on food contact surfaces have smooth, easily cleanable surfaces and are welded.

2804.4 Cleaning activities for equipment shall be conducted in a manner and at a frequency appropriate to prevent contamination of shellfish and food contact surfaces.

2804.5 All conveyances and equipment that come into contact with stored shellstock shall be cleaned and maintained in a manner and frequency as necessary to prevent shellstock contamination.

2804.6 Food contact surfaces of equipment, utensils, and containers shall be cleaned and sanitized to prevent contamination of shellfish and other food contact surfaces. The dealer shall comply with section 1202 and shall:

(a) Provide adequate cleaning supplies and equipment, including three compartment sinks, brushes, detergents, and sanitizers and make hot water and pressure hoses available within the plant;

(b) Sanitize equipment and utensils prior to the start-up of each day's activities and following any interruption during which food contact surfaces may have been contaminated;

(c) Wash and rinse equipment and utensils at the end of each day; and

(d) Provide a test kit or other device that actually measures parts per million (ppm) concentration of the chemical sanitizing agent in use.

2804.7 Shellfish shall be protected from contamination by washing and rinsing shucking containers and sanitizing before each filling.

2804.8 Containers that may have become contaminated during storage shall be washed, rinsed, and sanitized prior to use or shall be discarded.

2804.9 Shucked shellfish shall be packed or repacked in clean containers that are fabricated from food grade materials and stored in a manner that ensures their protection from contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2805 PREVENTING CROSS CONTAMINATION THROUGH STORAGE

2805.1 Shellstock shall be stored in a manner that protects shellstock from contamination in dry storage and at points of transfer.

2805.2 Shellstock shall not be placed in containers with standing water for the purposes of washing shellstock or loosening sediment.

2805.3 Equipment and utensils shall be stored in a manner that prevents splash, dust, and contamination in accordance with section 1203.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2806 PREVENTING CROSS CONTAMINATION FROM HANDS & SEWAGE

2806.1 The dealer shall ensure that where the same employees work in both shucking and packing activities, the employees maintain a high level of personal hygiene and cleanliness in accordance with chapter 4.

2806.2 The dealer shall require all employees in accordance with sections 401 and 402 to wash their hands thoroughly with hand cleaning liquid or powder and water, and sanitize their hands in an adequate handwashing sink in accordance with section 403.

2806.3 The dealer shall provide:

(a) Handwashing sinks with warm water at a minimum temperature of one hundred degree Fahrenheit (100°F) (thirty-eight degrees Centigrade (38°C)) dispensed through a hot and cold mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet in accordance with section 1402.1;

(b) Proper disposal of sewage and liquid disposable wastes from the facility in accordance with sections 1506 and 1507;

(c) An adequate number of conveniently located toilets in accordance with section 1908;

(d) An adequate supply of toilet paper in a suitable holder in each toilet facility in accordance with section 1910.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2807 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION BY EMPLOYEES

2807.1 In accordance with chapter 4, in any area where shellfish are shucked or packed and in any area that is used for cleaning or storage of utensils, employees shall not:

(a) Store clothing or other personal belongings;

(b) Eat or drink;

(c) Spit; or

(d) Use tobacco in any form.

2807.2 Any employee handling shucked shellfish shall:

(a) Wear effective hair restraints;

(b) Remove any hand jewelry that cannot be sanitized or secured;

(c) Wear finger cots or gloves if jewelry cannot be removed; and

(d) Wear clean outer garments, which are rinsed or changed as necessary to be kept clean.

2807.3 The dealer shall ensure that supervisors, in accordance with chapter 2:

(a) Are trained in proper food handling techniques and food protection principles;

(b) Are knowledgeable about personal hygiene and sanitary practices;

(c) Train employees and monitor employee compliance with required hygiene practices, including hand washing, the prohibition on eating and smoking at work stations, and the requirement that personal items and clothing be stored in accordance with chapter 4; and

(d) Comply with chapter 3 through employee training and monitoring of employees' health.

2807.4 In accordance with section 303.1, the dealer shall exclude or restrict an employee who exhibits or reports a symptom or who reports a diagnosed illness as specified in sections 300.3 through 300.5.

2807.5 An employee with a lesion containing pus such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining shall report it to his or her supervisor and keep it covered in accordance with section 300.3.

2807.6 If used, finger cots or gloves shall be:

(a) Made of impermeable materials except where the use of such material is inappropriate or incompatible with the work being done;

(b) Sanitized at least twice daily;

(c) Cleaned more often, if necessary;

(d) Properly stored until used; and

(e) Maintained in a clean, intact, and sanitary condition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2808 PREVENTING CROSS CONTAMINATION FROM ADULTERANTS

2808.1 Shellfish shall be protected from contamination while being transferred from one point to another during handling and processing.

2808.2 In accordance with section 1809, lighting fixtures, light bulbs, skylights, or other glass suspended over food storage or processing activities in areas where shellfish are exposed shall be of the safety type or protected to prevent food contamination in case of breakage.

2808.3 Food contact surfaces shall be protected from contamination by adulterants by using cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents only in accordance with manufacturer label directions and sections 2204 and 2205.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2809 PREVENTING CROSS CONTAMINATION FROM ICE

2809.1 Ice that is not made on site in the shellfish operation facility shall be inspected upon receipt and rejected if the ice has not been delivered in a manner that is protected from contamination.

2809.2 Ice shall be stored in a safe and sanitary manner to prevent contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2810 PROPER LABELING, STORAGE, AND USE OF TOXIC COMPOUNDS

2810.1 When pesticides are used in the shellfish operation, the dealer shall ensure that they are applied in accordance with section 2201 and 2202 and in a manner that prevents the contamination of shellfish or packaging materials with residues.

2810.2 Cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents shall be properly labeled and used only in accordance with the manufacturer's label directions.

2810.3 Toxic substances shall be labeled and used in accordance with the manufacturer's label directions.

2810.4 The dealer shall ensure that only toxic substances necessary for plant activities are present in the shellfish operation.

2810.5 Each of the following categories of toxic substances shall be stored separately:

(a) Insecticides and rodenticides;

(b) Detergents, sanitizers, and related cleaning agents; and

(c) Caustic acids, polishes, and other chemicals.

2810.6 The dealer shall not store toxic substances above shellfish, food contact surfaces, or food packaging materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2811 PLUMBING AND RELATED FACILITIES

2811.1 The dealer shall, in accordance with chapters 14 and 15, design, install, modify, repair, and maintain all plumbing and plumbing fixtures to:

(a) Prevent contamination of water supplies; and

(b) Prevent any cross-connection between the pressurized potable water supply and water from an unacceptable source. The dealer shall install and maintain in good working order devices to protect against backflow and back siphonage.

2811 .2 Shellstock washing storage tanks and related plumbing shall be fabricated from safe materials and tank construction shall:

(a) Be easily accessible for cleaning and inspection;

(b) Be self-draining; and

(c) Meet the requirements for food contact surfaces contained in subtitle D.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2812 HANDWASHING SINKS, PLUMBING, AND VENTILATION

2812.1 Handwashing sinks shall be provided in accordance with sections 1900 through 1905; and shall be directly plumbed to an approved sewage disposal system in accordance with section 1401.

2812.2 The dealer shall provide at least one (1) handwashing sink in the packaging room.

2812.3 Adequate floor drainage, including backflow prevention devices such as air gaps, shall be provided where floors are:

(a) Used in shellstock storage;

(b) Used for food holding units;

(c) Cleaned by hosing, flooding, or similar methods; and

(d) Subject to the discharge of water or other liquid waste on the floor during normal activities.

2812.4 A safe, effective means of sewage disposal for the facility shall be provided in accordance with sections 1400 and 1401.

2812.5 Drainage or waste pipes shall not be installed over food processing or food storage areas, or over areas in which containers and utensils are washed or stored.

2812.6 Ventilation, heating, or cooling systems shall not create conditions that may cause the shellfish products to become contaminated.

2812.7 Ventilation shall be provided to minimize condensation in areas where food is stored, processed, or packaged.

2812.8 Air pump intakes shall be located in a protected place and installed with air filters installed on all blower air pump intake systems.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2813 PHYSICAL SEPARATION OF ACTIVITIES

2813.1 Facilities for shucking and packing activities shall be separated by physical barriers such as rooms, partitions, or spacing to prevent contamination.

2813.2 Manufacturing activities, which could result in the contamination of the shellfish, shall be separated by physical barriers such as rooms or partitions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2814 PLANT AND GROUNDS

2814.1 The physical facilities of a shellfish operation shall be maintained in good repair.

2814.2 Grounds around the facility shall be maintained in a manner that prevents rodent attraction and harborage, and provides adequate drainage to avoid shellfish contamination.

2814.3 In accordance with section 2012, animals shall not be allowed in areas where shellfish are stored, handled, processed, or packaged or where food handling equipment, utensils, and packaging materials are cleaned or stored.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2815 PLANT INTERIOR

2815.1 Sanitary conditions shall be maintained throughout the facility.

2815.2 All dry area floors shall be hard, smooth, easily cleanable, and in good repair.

2815.3 All wet area floors used in areas to store shellstock, process food, or clean equipment or utensils shall be constructed of easily cleanable, impervious, and corrosion-resistant materials and shall:

(a) Be graded to provide adequate drainage;

(b) Have even surfaces and be free from cracks that create sanitary problems and interfere with drainage; and

(c) Have sealed junctions between floors and walls to render them impervious to water.

2815.4 Walls, ceilings, and interior surfaces of rooms where shellfish are stored, handled, processed, or packaged shall be constructed of easily cleanable, corrosion resistant, impervious materials.

2815.5 The dealer shall provide lighting throughout the facility that is sufficient to promote good manufacturing practices.

2815.6 The dealer shall ensure that toilet room doors are tight fitting, self-closing, and do not open directly into a processing area in accordance with section 1908.3.

2815.7 The dealer shall operate the facility to minimize the presence of pests on the premises in accordance with sections 1812 and 1813.

2815.8 The dealer shall protect the facility against the entry of insects, rodents or other vermin by employing necessary internal and external insect and vermin control measures including but not limited to tight fitting, self- closing doors in accordance with section 1813.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2816 WASTE DISPOSAL

2816.1 Disposal of waste materials shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance.

2816.2 All areas and receptacles used for the storage or conveyance of waste shall be operated and maintained to prevent the attraction, harborage, or breeding of insects, rodents, and vermin in accordance with chapter 16.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B29 CODE APPLICABILITY

25-B DCMR § 2900 USE FOR INTENDED PURPOSE - PUBLIC HEALTH PROTECTION

2900.1 The Department shall use this Code to promote the safeguarding of public health to ensure the safe manufacturing, processing, and packing of food, and the safe shipping and receiving of shellfish.

2900.2 In enforcing the provisions of this Code, the Department shall assess existing facilities or equipment that were in use before the effective date of this Code based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the facilities and equipment are in good repair and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition;

(b) Whether food-contact surfaces comply with sections 1200, 1203 1209, 1211, 1212, 1214, 2803, and 2804;

(c) Whether the capacities for cooling equipment are sufficient to comply with sections 900.2 through 900.6, sections 1204, 1205, 1206, 1207, 2600, 2601.3, 2601.4, 2601.5, 2602.3, 2605.1, 2605.2, 2700.2, 2700.3, 2700.4, 2701.2, 2701.3, 2702.2, 2703.1(c), 2703.2, and 2703.3; and

(d) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee or dealer that the facilities or equipment will be replaced so as to comply with this Code or be upgraded or replaced to comply with the requirements stated in paragraph (c) of this subsection by December 30, 2011, as specified in section 3108.7 and 3108.8.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 2901 PREVENTING HEALTH HAZARDS - PROVISION FOR CONDITIONS NOT ADDRESSED

2901.1 If necessary to protect against public health hazards or nuisances, the Department may impose specific requirements in addition to the requirements contained in this Code that are authorized pursuant to An Act To authorize the Commissioners of the District of Columbia to make regulations to prevent and control the spread of communicable and preventable diseases, approved August 11, 1939 (53 Stat. 1408; D.C. Official Code § 7-131 et seq.).

2901.2 The Department shall document the conditions that necessitate the imposition of additional requirements and the underlying public health rationale. The documentation shall be provided to the applicant, licensee or dealer and a copy shall be maintained in the Department's files.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B30 PLAN SUBMISSIONS AND APPROVAL

25-B DCMR § 3000 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS - WHEN REQUIRED

3000.1 An applicant, licensee or dealer shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications as specified in section 704, section 801.2 or chapter 25, and this chapter before:

(a) Opening a new food processing operation;

(b) Beginning the construction of a food processing operation;

(c) Converting an existing structure for use as a food processing operation;

(d) Conducting a major renovation, remodeling or alteration of a food processing operation; or

(e) Changing the type of food processing operation or the food processing methods used at the food processing operation.

3000.2 The applicant, licensee or dealer shall submit plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee to the Department at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a food processing operation.

3000.3 In addition to HACCP plans required under section 704 and section 801.2 or chapter 25, plans required by this section shall include specifications showing layout, arrangement, and construction materials to be used in the food processing operation and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.

3000.4 The Department may require an applicant, licensee or dealer to submit facility and operating plans for review and approval when the Department makes a determination pursuant to an inspection that such plans and specifications are necessary to ensure compliance with this Code and to protect the public.

3000.5 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of this Code, and the Department shall report its findings to the applicant, licensee or dealer within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

3000.6 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply with the Department's requirements or this Code or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3001 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS - CONTENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS

3001.1 Plans and specifications for a food processing operation shall include the following information to demonstrate conformance with this Code:

(a) Type of foods that are potentially hazardous to be produced, stored, held, repacked, relabeled, distributed, or transported;

(b) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, construction materials, and finish schedules;

(c) Proposed equipment types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions, performance capacities, and installation specifications;

(d) A complete set of elevations and drawings for all custom fabricated equipment;

(e) A functional flow plan indicating how food will be handled;

(f) Evidence that standard procedures that ensure compliance with the requirements of this Code are developed or are being developed;

(g) Evidence of an established food safety program such as an employee training manual, and standard operating procedures that ensure compliance with this Code; and

(h) Other information that may be required before the Department may approve proposed plans for the construction, conversion, or modification, including but not limited to approvals by other District agencies.

3001.2 Used equipment shall satisfy the standards specified in chapter 12, and sections 2601, 2603, 2803, and 2804, and shall be approved by the Department before use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3002 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS - WHEN MUST A HACCP PLAN BE SUBMITTED

3002.1 An applicant, licensee or dealer shall submit a HACCP Plan to the Department for approval when:

(a) An HACCP Plan is required under section 801.2 or chapter 25, and an initial application for a license or certification is filed with the Department in accordance with chapter 31; or

(b) An HACCP Plan is required under section 801.2 or chapter 25, and a renewal application for a license or certification is filed with the Department in accordance with chapter 31.

3002.2 If a food processing operation is required under section 3002.1 to have a HACCP plan, the plan must be prepared in accordance section 704, section 801.2 or chapter 25, and this section.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3003 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS COMPLIANCE WITH HACCP PLAN

3003.1 A licensee or dealer shall maintain and provide to the Department, on request, records that demonstrate that the following are routinely employed:

(a) Procedures for monitoring critical control points;

(b) Monitoring of the critical control points;

(c) Verification of the effectiveness of an operation or process; and

(d) Necessary corrective actions if there is failure at a critical control point.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3004 CONFIDENTIALITY - TRADE SECRETS

3004.1 The Department shall treat as confidential, information that is contained in the plans and specifications submitted pursuant to section 3001.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3005 CONSTRUCTION, INSPECTION, AND APPROVAL - PREOPERATIONAL INSPECTIONS

3005.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify that the food processing operation is constructed and equipped in accordance with approved plans and approved modifications to those plans, has established standard operating procedures for food processing methods that will be used, and is in compliance with applicable laws and this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B31 LICENSE / CERTIFICATION TO OPERATE

25-B DCMR § 3100 LICENSE / CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT - PREQUISITE FOR OPERATION

3100.1 No person shall operate a food processing operation, including owning, operating or offering the services of any refrigerated locker or lockers, in the District without a valid license or dealer certification issued by the Department.

3100.2 All food processing operations doing business in the District shall be in compliance with federal regulations requiring food facilities to register with FDA in accordance with 21 CFR 1.225 - Who must register under this subpart? before beginning operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3101 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - PERIOD FOR SUBMISSION

3101.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license or dealer certification at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a food processing operation or the expiration date of the current license or dealer certification for an existing operation.

3101.2 Licenses shall be valid for a two (2) year period except that shellfish certifications shall be valid for a one (1) year period in accordance with section 2309.

3101.3 Fees shall be prorated for licenses and dealer certifications issued after beginning of the license or dealer certification period.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3102 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - FORM OF SUBMISSION

3102.1 An applicant shall submit a written application for a license or dealer certification on a form provided by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3103 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION

3103.1 The application for a license for a food processing operation shall include the name, address, and signature of the applicant, and the following information, in addition to any information required for shellfish operations under section 2302.1:

(a) Name, mailing address and telephone number of the owner of the business;

(b) Trade name;

(c) Name and address of corporate officers;

(d) Name and country of registered agent, if applicable;

(e) Address of the food processing operation;

(f) Type of food processing method(s) that will be in use in the food processing operation; and

(g) Whether product will be sold in interstate commerce.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3104 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTING

3104.1 A food processing operation shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to operate at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

3104.2 A food processing operation shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

3104.3 All licenses, certifications and current inspection results shall be conspicuously posted within the food processing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3105 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - NEW, CONVERTED, OR REMODELED FOOD PROCESSING OPERATIONS

3105.1 For food processing operations that are required to submit plans as specified in section 3000, the Department shall issue a license or dealer certification to an applicant after:

(a) A properly completed application is submitted;

(b) The required fee is submitted;

(c) The required plans, specifications, and information are reviewed and approved; and

(d) A preoperational inspection as specified in section 3005 has been conducted that shows the operation is built or remodeled in accordance with the approved plans and specifications and that the operation is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3106 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - EXISTING OPERATIONS, AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR LOCATION

3106.1 The Department shall renew a license or dealer certification to an existing food processing operation after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the operation is in compliance with this Code.

3106.2 The Department shall issue a new license or dealer certification to an existing food processing operation that has changed ownership or changed location after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the operation is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3107 ISSUANCE - DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE OR DEALER CERTIFICATION, NOTICE

3107.1 If an application for a license or dealer certification or a renewal of a license or dealer certification is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license or certification;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or certification or to renew a license or certification; and

(c) Notice of the applicant's right to a hearing and the process and timeframes for appeal as prescribed in chapter 37.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3108 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION - RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE OR DEALER

3108.1 Upon receipt of a license or dealer certification issued by the Department, the licensee or dealer, in order to retain the license or dealer certification, shall comply with sections 3108.2 through 3108.8.

3108.2 The licensee or dealer shall post the license or dealer certification and current inspection results in a conspicuous location within the food processing operation as specified in section 3104.3.

3108.3 The licensee or dealer shall comply with the provisions of this Code and approved plans as specified in section 3000.

3108.4 The licensee or dealer shall immediately contact the Department to report an illness of an employee as specified in section 301.

3108.5 The licensee or dealer shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard exists as specified in section 3210.

3108.6 The licensee or dealer shall allow representatives of the Department access to its food processing operation as specified in section 3200.1 and 3200.2.

3108.7 The licensee or dealer shall replace existing facilities and equipment approved for use before the effective date of this Code pursuant to a documented agreement with the Department requiring that the facilities or equipment be replaced with facilities and equipment that comply with this Code, except the Department may direct the replacement of existing facilities and equipment because the facilities and equipment constitute a public health hazard or nuisance.

3108.8 The licensee or dealer shall upgrade or replace refrigeration equipment to comply with the requirements specified in section 2900.2(c) by December 30, 2011.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3109 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION - LICENSE OR DEALER CERTIFICATION NOT TRANSFERABLE

3109.1 A license or dealer certification shall not be transferred from one person to another person, or from one type of food processing operation to another if the operation changes from the type of processing operation stated in the application, as specified in section 3103, and the change in operation is not approved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B32 INSPECTION AND CORRECTION OF VIOLATIONS

25-B DCMR § 3200 ACCESS - DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL

3200.1 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with this Code, the applicant, licensee or dealer shall allow the Department access to any part, portion or area of a food processing operation.

3200.2 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a food processing operation, including, but not limited to its vehicles, equipment, refrigerated lockers, finished and unfinished materials, containers, labeling, and advertisements, at any time for one or more of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the food processing operation is in compliance with this Code;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the food processing operation is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency;

(c) To investigate, examine and sample food; and

(d) To obtain information, and examine and copy all records on the premises relating to food purchased, received, processed, packaged, or used by a food processing operation.

3200.3 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a food processing operation, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant, licensee or dealer is required to allow access to the Department as specified in section 3200.1;

(b) Access is a condition of the receipt and retention of a license or dealer certification as specified in section 3108.6;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

3200.4 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in section 3200.1, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in section 3200.3, and the applicant, licensee or dealer continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

3200.5 If the Department is denied access to a food processing operation for an authorized purpose, after complying with sections 3200.1 through 3200.3, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license or dealer certification issued to the food processing operation in accordance with sections 3516;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license or certification issued to the food processing operation in accordance with section 3521; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court, to enforce this Code in accordance with section 8a(1) of An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, effective May 2, 2002 (D.C. Law 14-116; D.C. Official Code § 48-108.01(1)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3201 FREQUENCY - RISK-BASED INSPECTION SCHEDULE

3201.1 The Department shall inspect a food processing operation based on a written risk-based inspection schedule that is uniformly applied throughout the District.

3201.2 The Department shall prioritize the inspection frequency for each food processing operation based on the potential health hazard associated with each establishment's operations and its compliance history as follows:

(a) HIGH-RISK (Shellstock Processing): Wholesale handling, shipping, receiving, shucking, packing, repacking, selling, or purchasing of shellstock or shucked shellstock;

(b) HIGH-RISK: Manufacturers of acidified foods, low acid foods in hermetically sealed containers, by methods of canning, packaging, or bottling operations; wholesale manufacturers of potentially hazardous foods such as cream-filled pastries, filled macaroni products, and smoked/cured fish; manufacturers of high risk ready-to-eat foods; food salvagers; and vacuum packers;

(c) MODERATE-RISK: Processing or altering of food. Processing includes but is not limited to acidifying, smoking, drying, fermenting, curing, deboning, filleting, reduced oxygen packaging, and other operations and processes that significantly alter the finished product. Extensive repacking or repackaging of food products also constitutes significant processing;

(d) LOW-RISK: Sale of food products without processing or repackaging of food products such as occurs in supermarkets, grocery stores or refrigerated warehouses and food warehouses; or sale of wholesale products offered to the public without any additional processing by the establishment. Processing is limited to labeling and presentation of the food product, such as reselling processed foods to a distributor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3202 FREQUENCY - PERFORMANCE AND RISK-BASED FACTORS

3202.1 Within the parameters specified in section 3201, the Department shall prioritize and conduct more frequent inspections based upon its assessment of a food processing operation's history of compliance with this Code and its potential as a vector of foodborne illness by evaluating:

(a) Past performance for numerous or repeat critical violations of this Code or HACCP Plan requirements;

(b) Past performance for numerous or repeat violations of this Code or HACCP Plan requirements that are noncritical violations;

(c) Past performance, for complaints investigated and found to be valid;

(d) The hazards associated with particular foods that are processed, prepared, stored, purchased, transported, held, shipped, packaged, or received; and

(e) The type of operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3203 FREQUENCY - SHELLFISH-PROCESSING OPERATIONS

3203.1 In addition to section 3202.1, the Department shall inspect shellfish-processing operations identified in section 3201.2(a) for compliance with subtitle H and the most recent edition of the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish.

3203.2 After an applicant is certified as specified in section 2307, the Department shall make unannounced inspections of the dealer's facilities:

(a) During hours of operation; and

(b) At the following minimum frequencies:

(1) Within thirty (30) business days of beginning operations if the dealer was certified on the basis of a pre-operational inspection;

(2) At least quarterly for dealer operations certified as shucker¬packers or repackers; and

(3) At least semiannually for other dealer operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3204 FREQUENCY - SHELLFISH-PROCESSING OPERATIONS, PERFORMANCE BASED INSPECTION PROGRAM (PIP)

3204.1 A performance based inspection program (PIP) may be instituted by the Department for any dealer who meets the requirements of this section.

3204.2 The minimum frequency of inspection under a PIP shall be no less than one (1) inspection per certification period. The recertification inspection may qualify as the required minimum inspection frequency.

3204.3 To be eligible for a PIP, the dealer shall have demonstrated a history of satisfactory compliance for the previous three (3)-year period. The previous three (3)-year period shall demonstrate:

(a) Full compliance with inspections conducted under the minimum inspection frequency specified in section 3203.2(b);

(b) Recertification of the dealer by the Department each year;

(c) Verification that no more than one (1) critical violation and no more than two (2) noncritical violations have occurred in any one inspection;

(d) Correction of all identified violations in accordance with the compliance schedule approved by the Department; and

(e) No repetition of the identified violations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3205 REPORT OF FINDINGS - DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

3205.1 The Department shall document on an inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the food processing operation's legal identity, street and mailing addresses, type of operation, and food processing method, inspection date, and other information such as type of water supply and sewage disposal, status of the license or dealer certification and personnel certificates that may be required; and

(b) Specific factual observations of Code violations that require correction by the licensee or dealer including:

(1) Failure of the licensee or dealer to ensure that supervisors are certified by an FDA and USDA approved institution, have obtained a District-issued Certified Supervisor Identification Card as specified in section 200.9, or monitor compliance with the requirements stated in section 201;

(2) Failure of food employees and supervisors to demonstrate their knowledge of their responsibility to report a disease or medical condition as specified in sections 300 and 301;

(3) Nonconformance with critical items of this Code; and

(4) Failure of a licensee or dealer to meet an approved compliance schedule as specified in sections 3212 and 3214.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3206 REPORT OF FINDINGS SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

3206.1 The Department shall specify on the inspection report form the time frame for correction of violations as specified in sections 3212, and 3214.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3207 REPORT OF FINDINGS - ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

3207.1 At the conclusion of the inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee or dealer, and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable Code provisions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3208 REPORT OF FINDINGS - REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

3208.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee's or dealer's obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the food processing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3209 DEPARTMENT RECORDS REQUIREMENTS

3209.1 The Department shall keep and maintain a record of each inspection made of any food processing operation within the District for a period of three (3) years.

3209.2 The Department shall maintain annual records of the following information:

(a) Total number of licensed or certified food processing operations by category;

(b) Number of inspections by category;

(c) Number of reinspections by category;

(d) Number of hearings;

(e) Number of license or dealer certification suspensions by category;

(f) Number of license or dealer certification revocations by category;

(g) Number and types of adulterated or misbranded foods or foods originating from unapproved sources that were officially tagged or marked subject to embargo orders;

(h) Number and types of equipment, utensils, or food-packing materials that did not meet the requirements of this Code and were officially tagged or marked subject to condemnation orders; and

(i) Number of general complaints investigated and the outcomes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3210 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD - CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING

3210.1 A licensee or dealer shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard may exist because of an emergency, such as:

(a) A fire;

(b) A flood;

(c) An extended interruption of electrical or water service;

(d) A sewage backup;

(e) A misuse of poisonous or toxic materials;

(f) The onset of an apparent foodborne illness outbreak;

(g) A gross unsanitary occurrence or condition; or

(h) Other circumstances that may endanger public health.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3211 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD - RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

3211.1 If operations are discontinued as specified in section 3210 or otherwise according to District laws and regulations, the licensee or dealer shall obtain approval from the Department before resuming operations.

3211.2 A licensee or dealer need not discontinue operations in a food processing area that is unaffected by the imminent health hazard as determined by the Department or other District agency.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3212 CRITICAL VIOLATION - TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

3212.1 A licensee or dealer shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation of this Code and implement corrective action for a HACCP Plan requirement that is not in compliance with its critical limit(s) in accordance with sections 801.2, 2501 and 2502, except as specified in section 3212.3 and 3501.3.

3212.2 A dealer shall correct a critical violation at the time of the inspection, or shall cease production of the contaminated or adulterated product affected by the violation in accordance with section 3501.3.

3212.3 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed five (5) business days after the inspection, for the licensee or dealer to correct a critical violation of this Code or HACCP Plan deviations.

3212.4 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee or dealer to an embargo order pursuant to section 3503, a condemnation order pursuant to section 3510, summary suspension of a license or dealer certification pursuant to section 3516, revocation or suspension of a license or dealer certification pursuant to section 3521, civil penalties pursuant to section 3522, and judicial remedies pursuant to section 3525.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3213 CRITICAL VIOLATION - VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

3213.1 After observing at the time of inspection a correction of a critical violation, the Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on the inspection report.

3213.2 After receiving notification that the licensee or dealer has corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in the Department's records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3214 NONCRITICAL VIOLATION - TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

3214.1 The licensee or dealer shall correct noncritical violations by a date and time agreed to or specified by the Department but no later than thirty (30) business days after the inspection, except as specified in section 3214.2.

3214.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in section 3214.1 if the licensee or dealer submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance

3214.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of a license or certification pursuant to section 3521, issuance of civil penalties pursuant to section 3522, and the imposition of judicial remedies pursuant to section 3525.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3215 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

3215.1 If a license or dealer certification is summarily suspended pursuant to section 3516 or suspended or revoked pursuant to 3521 because of violations of this Code, the licensee or dealer shall submit a written request for reinspection.

3215.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the food processing operation within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

3215.3 A food processing operation shall not resume operations or remove from public view any warning or current inspection results as specified in sections 3104.3 and 3108.2 until the Department has reinspected the food processing operation and certified that it is in compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B33 PREVENTION OF FOODBORNE DISEASE TRANSMISSION BY EMPLOYEES

25-B DCMR § 3300 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL - OBTAINING INFORMATION, ILLNESSES

3300.1 The Department shall, when it has probable cause to believe that a food employee has transmitted a disease, is infected with a disease in a communicable form that is transmissible through food, is a carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through food, or is affected with a boil, an infected wound, or acute respiratory infection:

(a) Secure a confidential medical history of the employee or make other investigations as deemed appropriate; and

(b) Require appropriate medical examinations, including collection of specimens for laboratory analysis, of a suspected employee and other employees.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3301 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION OF FOOD EMPLOYEE OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE OR DEALER CERTIFICATION

3301.1 Based on the findings of an investigation related to a food employee who is suspected of being infected or diseased, or a carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through food, the Department may issue an order to the suspected employee, or licensee or dealer instituting one (1) or more of the following control measures:

(a) Restricting the food employee's services to specific areas and tasks in a food processing operation that present no risk of transmitting the disease;

(b) Excluding the food employee from a food processing operation; or

(c) Closing the food processing operation by summarily suspending a license or dealer certification in accordance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3302 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL - RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION ORDER

3302.1 Based on the findings of the investigation specified in section 3300 and to control disease transmission, the Department may issue an order of restriction or exclusion to a suspected food employee or the licensee or dealer without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing if the order recites:

(a) The reasons for the restriction or exclusion that is ordered;

(b) The requirement that the food employee or the licensee or dealer shall provide evidence demonstrating that the reasons for the restriction or exclusion have been eliminated;

(c) That the suspected food employee or the licensee or dealer may request a hearing by submitting a timely request as provided in section 3700 of this Code; and

(d) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3303 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL RELEASE OF FOOD EMPLOYEE FROM RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION

3303.1 The Department shall release a food employee who was infected with Salmonella Typhi from restriction or exclusion if the food employee's stools are negative for Salmonella Typhi based on testing of at least three (3) consecutive stool specimen cultures that are taken:

(a) Not earlier than one (1) month after onset;

(b) At least forty-eight (48) hours after discontinuance of antibiotics; and

(c) At least twenty-four (24) hours apart.

3303.2 If one (1) of the cultures taken as specified in section 3303.1 is positive, repeat cultures are to be taken at intervals of one (1) month until at least three (3) consecutive negative stool specimen cultures are obtained.

3303.3 The Department shall release a food employee who was infected with Shigella spp. or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli from restriction or exclusion according to this Code if the food employee's stools are negative for Shigella spp. or Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli based on testing of two (2) consecutive stool specimen cultures that are taken:

(a) Not earlier than forty-eight (48) hours after discontinuance of antibiotics; and

(b) At least twenty-four (24) hours apart.

3303.4 The Department shall release a food employee who was infected with hepatitis A virus from restriction or exclusion if:

(a) Symptoms cease; or

(b) At least two (2) blood tests show falling liver enzymes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B34 NOTICES

25-B DCMR § 3400 SERVICE OF NOTICE - PROPER METHODS

3400.1 A notice issued in accordance with this Code shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one of the following methods:

(a) The notice is personally served by the Department, a law enforcement officer, or person authorized to serve civil process and service is made to the licensee, dealer, or person operating a food processing operation without a license or dealer certification;

(b) The notice is sent by the Department to the last known address of the licensee, dealer, or person operating a food processing operation without a license or dealer certification by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) For civil infraction penalties, the notice is provided by the Department in accordance with the procedures stated in section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3401 SERVICE OF NOTICE RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION, EMBARGO, CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

3401.1 An employee restriction or exclusion order, embargo order, condemnation order, or a summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in section 3400.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the food processing operation and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the licensee, dealer, or the owner or custodian of the food processing operation, as appropriate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3402 SERVICE OF NOTICE - WHEN NOTICE IS EFFECTIVE

3402.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt or if service is made as specified in section 3401.1(b), at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3403 SERVICE OF NOTICE - PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

3403.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee, dealer, the person operating a food processing operation without a license or dealer certification, or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B35 REMEDIES

25-B DCMR § 3500 CRITERIA FOR SEEKING REMEDIES - CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY

3500.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of this Code if a licensee, dealer, or person operating a food processing operation, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license or dealer certification as specified in section 3100;

(b) Violates any term or condition of a license or dealer certification as specified in section 3108;

(c) Fails to allow the Department access to a food processing operation as specified in section 3200;

(d) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, orders, or warnings issued by the Department as specified in sections 3212 and 3214;

(e) Fails to comply with a Department order issued as specified in section 3302 concerning an employee suspected of having a disease transmissible through food by an infected person;

(f) Engages in prohibited conduct or practices as specified in chapter 36;

(g) Fails to comply with an embargo or condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(h) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter; or

(i) Fails to comply with an order issued as a result of an administrative hearing.

3500.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3501 CRITERIA FOR SEEKING REMEDIES - CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY, SHELLFISH-PROCESSING OPERATIONS

3501.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy, or any combination thereof, to achieve compliance with the provisions of this Code if a person operating a shellfish-processing operation or employee fails to comply with sections 3500 or 3501.2 through 3501.4.

3501.2 When a dealer has failed to meet a compliance schedule as specified in sections 3212 and 3214, the Department shall determine whether it is appropriate to:

(a) Revise an existing compliance schedule;

(b) Close the shellfish-processing operation by summarily suspending a dealer's certification; or

(c) Take action to revoke or suspend a dealer's certification.

3501.3 When any inspection detects a critical violation:

(a) The violation shall be corrected during that inspection; or

(b) The dealer shall cease production of the contaminated or adulterated product affected by the violation.

3501.4 When a dealer fails to comply with section 3501.3, the Department shall summarily suspend the dealer's certification and immediately begin action to suspend or revoke the dealer's certification.

3501.5 The Department shall prevent the release of contaminated or adulterated products affected by a critical violation by:

(a) Detaining or seizing any undistributed lots of shellfish that may have been adulterated in accordance with section 3503;

(b) Requiring the dealer to initiate a recall of any distributed shellfish in accordance with section 1100.2; and

(c) Notifying immediately the enforcement officials for FDA and any other jurisdiction where the product was distributed.

3501.6 Except for critical violations described in section 3501.3, when new violations that were not included in a compliance schedule are observed during an inspection, the Department shall work with the dealer to develop a compliance schedule to correct the new violations.

3501.7 When four (4) or more new critical violations are observed during an inspection, the Department may:

(a) Revise an existing compliance schedule;

(b) Close the shellfish-processing operation by summarily suspending a dealer's certification; or

(c) Take action to revoke or suspend a dealer's certification.

3501.8 The Department shall document its reasons for revising a compliance schedule or imposing other administrative remedies.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3502 ADMINISTRATIVE - EXAMINING, SAMPLING, AND TESTING FOOD

3502.1 The Department may collect samples, without cost, and examine them as necessary to determine compliance with this Code.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3503 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF FOOD

3503.1 A duly authorized agent of the Department may embargo and forbid the sale of, or cause to be destroyed, any food it finds or has probable cause to believe:

(a) May be unsafe, adulterated, or not honestly presented;

(b) Is not prepared, processed, handled, packaged, transported, held, or stored in compliance with this Code;

(c) Originated from an unapproved source;

(d) Is not labeled according to law, or if raw molluscan shellfish, is not tagged or labeled, and documented and recorded as specified in chapter 24; or

(e) Is otherwise not in compliance with this Code.

3503.2 The Department shall permit storage of the embargoed food under conditions specified in section 3506.2, unless storage is not possible without risk to the public health, in which case immediate destruction shall be ordered and accomplished.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3504 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, CONTENTS

3504.1 The embargo order notice shall:

(a) State that food subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the food processing operation, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the food under the embargo order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Code and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the food subject to the embargo order by the common name, the label information, a container description, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee or dealer has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with chapter 37, which shall not stay the Department's imposition of the embargo;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction of the food if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3505 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF FOOD

3505.1 The Department shall affix an official tag, label, or other appropriate marking on the food or containers or otherwise conspicuously identify food subject to the embargo order.

3505.2 The official tag, label, or marking required in section 3505.1 shall:

(a) Give notice that the food is or is suspected of being adulterated or misbranded;

(b) Give notice that the food has been detained or embargoed for a period not to exceed five (5) business days; and

(c) Contain a warning to all persons not to remove or dispose of the food, except as specified in section 3506.

3505.3 The tag or other method used to identify a food that is the subject of an embargo order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in section 3504 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3506 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, FOOD MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

3506.1 A food placed under an embargo order may not be used, sold, served, or moved from the establishment by any person, except as specified in section 3506.2.

3506.2 The Department may allow the licensee or dealer to store the food in an area of the food processing operation if the food is protected from subsequent deterioration and the storage does not restrict operations of the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3507 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

3507.1 Only the Department may remove embargo order tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from food subject to an embargo order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3508 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, DESTROYING OR DENATURING FOOD

3508.1 If an embargo order is sustained pursuant to a hearing, or if a timely request for a hearing is not filed, the Department may order the licensee, dealer, or other person who owns or has custody of the food to bring the food into compliance with this Code or to destroy or denature the food under the Department's supervision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3509 ADMINISTRATIVE - EMBARGO ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

3509.1 The Department may issue an embargo order to a licensee or dealer, or to a person who owns or controls the food, as specified in section 3503, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing on the embargo order.

3509.2 The licensee or dealer shall have a right to request a hearing within five (5) business days of receiving an embargo order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the embargo action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3510 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS AND FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS

3510.1 The Department may condemn and cause to be removed any equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials found in a food processing operation the use of which does not comply with this Code, or that is being used in violation of this Code, or that because of dirt, filth, extraneous matter, insects, corrosion, open seams, or chipped or cracked surfaces is unfit for use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3511 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

3511.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, utensils or food packaging materials subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the food processing operation, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, utensils or food packaging materials under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Code and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the label or manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee or dealer has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with chapter 37, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction, replacement or removal of the equipment, utensils or food packaging materials if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3512 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, AND FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS

3512.1 The Department shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials that do not meet the requirements of this Code.

3512.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials that is the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in section 3511 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3513 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, AND FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

3513.1 Equipment, utensils or food packaging materials that is subject to a condemnation order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in section 3513.2.

3513.2 The Department may allow the licensee or dealer to store the equipment, utensils, or food packaging materials in an area of the food processing operation that does not restrict operations of the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3514 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

3514.1 No person shall remove the tag, label, or other appropriate marking except under the direction of the Department as specified in section 3514.2.

3514.2 The Department shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from equipment, utensils and food packaging materials if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee or dealer notifies the Department that the equipment, utensils, and food packaging materials have been modified to meet NSF, UL, or ANSI standards and the requirements of this Code, and the Department has conducted a re-inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3515 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

3515.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee or dealer, or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, utensils or food packaging materials as specified in section 3510, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing on the condemnation order.

3515.2 The licensee or dealer shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days of receiving a Department condemnation order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the condemnation action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3516 ADMINISTRATIVE - SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE OR DEALER CERTIFICATION, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

3516.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license or dealer certification to operate a food processing operation if it is denied access to the food processing operation to conduct an inspection, or determines through an inspection, or examination of employees, food, records, or other means as specified in this Code, that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3517 ADMINISTRATIVE - CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

3517.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license or dealer certification of a food processing operation is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Code that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the licensee or dealer may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with section 3700, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3518 ADMINISTRATIVE - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

3518.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license or dealer certification as specified in section 3516 by providing written notice as specified in section 3517 of the summary suspension to the licensee or dealer, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or prior hearing.

3518.2 The licensee or dealer shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days after receiving the Department's summary suspension notice. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3519 ADMINISTRATIVE - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

3519.1 After receiving a written request from the licensee or dealer stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the food processing operation for which the license or dealer certification was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3520 ADMINISTRATIVE - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

3520.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through re-inspection or other appropriate means, that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been eliminated.

3520.2 The suspended license or dealer certification shall be reinstated if the Department determines that the public health hazard or nuisance no longer exists. A notice of reinstatement shall be provided to the licensee or dealer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3521 ADMINISTRATIVE - REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE OR DEALER CERTIFICATION

3521.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Code shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license or dealer certification issued for a food processing operation pursuant to section 8a(c) of the An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved May 2, 2002 (D.C. Law 14-116; D.C. Official Code § 48¬108.01(c)). When there is a history of repeated violations or where a license or dealer certification has been previously suspended, the Department may revoke a license or dealer certification, upon a showing of a subsequent violation.

3521.2 Before the Department revokes or suspends a license or dealer certification, the licensee or dealer shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3522 ADMINISTRATIVE - CIVIL PENALTIES

3522.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any food processing operation, owner, licensee, or dealer for violation of any provision of this Code.

3522.2 The Department may impose penalties for violations of any provision of this Code not to exceed $10,000 for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with this Code shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with section 9(b) of An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898 (30 Stat. 248; D.C. Official Code § 48-109(b)).

3522.3 Civil fines or penalties imposed pursuant to section 3522.2 shall reflect the severity of the violation and the extent to which it creates an imminent threat to the public health. Maximum amounts shall be limited to egregious or flagrant violations involving gross negligence or carelessness, or violations involving the transmission of communicable diseases through foods, which do not meet the criminal penalty standards in section 3525.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3523 ADMINISTRATIVE - CIVIL PENALTIES, NOTICES OF VIOLATION OR INFRACTIONS

3523.1 The notice of violation shall state the nature of the violation and allow a reasonable time for performance of the necessary corrective action.

3523.2 If a person fails to comply with the time stated in the notice of violation issued pursuant to this section, the Department shall issue a proposed compliance order, or a proposed cease and desist order, which shall include a statement of the nature of the violation, afford the right to a hearing, allow a reasonable time for compliance with the order, and state any penalties to be assessed for failure to comply with the order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3524 ADMINISTRATIVE - CIVIL PENALTIES, STORAGE & TRANSPORT OF FOOD

3524.1 A person who knowingly stores or transports food in violation of sections 900, 901, and 903, or chapters 26 and 27, or who knowingly causes food to be stored or transported in violation of sections 900, 901, and 903, or chapters 26 and 27 may be subject to civil or criminal penalties in accordance with sections 3522 or 3525.

3524.2 The Department shall, wherever practical, secure the assistance of other District agencies, including but not limited to the District's Metropolitan Police Department, in identifying and investigating potential violations of section 900, 901, and 903, or chapters 26 and 27.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3525 JUDICIAL - CRIMINAL PENALTIES, INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, IMPRISONMENT

3525.1 Any person who knowingly violates any provision of this Code shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000), imprisonment not to exceed one (1) year, or both, for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with this Code shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with section 9(c) of the An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898 (30 Stat. 248; D.C. Official Code § 48-109(c)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B36 PROHIBITED CONDUCT AND PRACTICES

25-B DCMR § 3600 PROHIBITED CONDUCT - GENERAL PROVISIONS

3600.1 The following activities are prohibited within the District:

(a) Selling a food or a food product that is adulterated or misbranded;

(b) Adulterating or misbranding a food or a food product;

(c) Receiving a food or a food product that is adulterated or misbranded, or selling such an item for pay or otherwise;

(d) Refusing the Department entry into or inspection of a food processing operation, collection of samples, or copying of any record as specified in section 3200.2;

(e) Refusing the Department access to any part, portion or area of a food processing operation as required by section 3200.2;

(f) Using any mark, stamp, tag, label, or other identification device that is not authorized or not required by this Code;

(g) Using, removing, selling, serving or otherwise disposing of any embargoed food in violation of section 3506, or using, removing or disposing of detained equipment, utensils or food packaging materials in violation of section 3513; and

(h) Altering, mutilating, destroying, obliterating, or removing all or any part of the labeling of, or performing any other act with respect to a food if the act is done while the article is held for sale and results in the article being misbranded.

3600.2 It shall be unlawful to resell, to offer for resale, or to distribute for resale within the District any food processed in a food processing operation that has not obtained a license in accordance with section 3100.1 after receiving notice from the Department that the food is from an unlicensed food processing operation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3601 PROHIBITED CONDUCT - EGG & EGG PRODUCTS

3601.1 No person shall buy, sell, or transport, offer to buy or sell, or offer or receive for transportation any restricted eggs capable of use as human food, except as authorized in accordance with section 702.

3601.2 No egg handler shall possess with intent to use, or use, any restricted eggs in the preparation of human food, except that such eggs may be so possessed and used in accordance with section 702.

3601.3 No person shall process any egg products, except in accordance with section 702.

3601.4 No person shall buy, sell, or transport, offer to buy or sell, or offer or receive for transportation any egg products required to be inspected under this Code unless they have been so inspected and the egg products are labeled and packaged in accordance with section 702.

3601.5 No person shall forge, alter, detach or destroy any official device, mark, or certificate relating to eggs or egg products.

3601.6 No person shall knowingly possess, without promptly notifying the Department, any official device or any counterfeit, simulated, forged, or improperly altered official certificate or any device or label relating to eggs or egg products, or any eggs or egg products bearing any counterfeit, simulated, forged, or improperly altered official mark.

3601.7 No person shall knowingly make any false statement in any shipper's certificate or other nonofficial or official certificate as prohibited under section 702.

3601.8 No person shall knowingly represent that any egg or egg product has been inspected or exempted under this Code when in fact it has not been so inspected or exempted.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3602 PROHIBITED PRACTICES - MISBRANDING, FALSE LABEL

3602.1 A food shall be deemed to be misbranded if:

(a) Its labeling is false or misleading;

(b) It is offered for sale under the name of another food;

(c) It is an imitation of another food, unless its label bears, in type of uniform size and prominence, the word "imitation" and, immediately thereafter, the name of the food imitated; or

(d) Its container is so made, formed or filled as to be misleading.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3603 PROHIBITED PRACTICES - PACKAGED FOOD, MISBRANDING

3603.1 If a food is in a packaged form it shall be deemed to be misbranded, unless it bears a label containing:

(a) The name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor; and

(b) An accurate statement of the quantity of the contents in terms of weight, measure, or numerical count, except that reasonable variations shall be permitted under this section.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3604 PROHIBITED PRACTICES - MISBRANDING, LACK OF PROMINENT LABEL

3604.1 A food shall be deemed to be misbranded if any word, statement, or other information required by this Code to appear on the food's label is not prominently placed on the label with such conspicuousness (as compared with other words, statements, designs, or devices in the labeling) and in such terms as to render it likely to be read and understood by the ordinary individual under customary conditions of purchase and use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3605 PROHIBITED PRACTICES - MISBRANDING, FAILURE TO SHOW USUAL NAME AND INGREDIENTS

3605.1 A food shall be deemed to be misbranded unless its label bears:

(a) The common or usual name of the food, if any; and

(b) If the food is fabricated from two or more ingredients, the common or usual name of each ingredient; except that spices, flavorings, and colorings, other than those sold as such, may be designated as spices, flavorings, and colorings without naming each. Compliance with this section shall not be required if compliance is impractical or would result in deception or unfair competition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3606 PROHIBITED PRACTICES - PERISHABLE PACKAGED FOOD, REPACKAGING TO SUBSTITUTE FOR ORIGINAL DATE, EXCEPTION

3606.1 No person shall sell, trade, or barter any perishable packaged food beyond the pull date appearing thereon.

3606.2 No person shall rewrap or repackage any packaged perishable food with the intention of placing a pull date on the food that is different from the original pull date.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B37 HEARING ADMINISTRATION

25-B DCMR § 3700 ADMINISTRATIVE - NOTICE, REQUEST FOR HEARING, BASIS AND TIME FRAME

3700.1 A person who receives a notice of hearing for an administrative remedy as specified in this chapter and elects to respond to the notice shall file a response to the notice within seven (7) calendar days after service.

3700.2 In response to an adverse administrative action, a licensee or dealer may submit a written request for a hearing to the Department within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of notice of adverse action.

3700.3 A hearing request shall not stay the Department's restriction or exclusion of employees specified in sections 3301 and 3302, an embargo order as specified in section 3503, a condemnation order as specified in section 3510, or the imposition of a summary suspension as specified in section 3516.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3701 ADMINISTRATIVE - HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION - CONTENTS OF RESPONSE TO HEARING NOTICE, OR HEARING REQUEST

3701.1 A response to a hearing notice shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement as to whether the respondent waives the right to a hearing;

(c) A statement of defense, mitigation, or explanation concerning any allegation of fact if any;

(d) A request to the Department for a settlement of the proceeding by consent agreement, (if the Department provides this opportunity); and

(e) The name and address of the respondent's legal counsel, if any.

3701.2 A request for hearing shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement of defense, mitigation, denial, or explanation concerning each allegation of fact; and

(c) The name and address of the requester's legal counsel, if any.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 3702 ADMINISTRATIVE - HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION, TIMELINESS

3702.1 The Department shall afford a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours after receiving a written request for a hearing from:

(a) A person who is excluded by the Department from working in a food processing operation as specified in sections 3301 and 3302;

(b) A licensee, dealer, or person who is subject to an embargo order as specified in sections 3503 or a condemnation order as specified in sections 3510;

(c) A person whose license or certification is summarily suspended as specified in sections 3516; or

(d) A person whose license or certification is suspended or revoked as specified in section 3521.

3702.2 A licensee, dealer, or person who submits a request for a hearing as specified in section 3700.2 may waive the expedited hearing in a written request to the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B38 JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-B DCMR § 3800 JUDICIAL REVIEW - APPEALS

3800.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance section 9(e) of the An Act Relating to the adulteration of food and drugs in the District of Columbia, approved February 17, 1898 (30 Stat. 248; D.C. Official Code § 48-109(e)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-B99 DEFINITIONS

25-B DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).
25-B DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

Acid foods - foods that have a natural pH of four and six tenths (4.6) or below.

Acidified foods - low-acid foods to which acid(s) or acid food(s) are added. Acidified foods include, but are not limited to beans, cucumbers, cabbage, artichokes, cauliflower, puddings, peppers, tropical fruits, and fish. Singly or in any combination they have water activity (aw) greater than eighty-five hundredths (0.85) and have a finished equilibrium pH of four and six tenths (4.6) or below. These foods may be called pickled, such as "pickled cauliflower." Acidified foods do not include carbonated beverages, jams, jellies, preserves, acid foods (including such foods as standardized and non-standardized food dressings and condiment sauces) that contain small amounts of low-acid food and have a resultant finished equilibrium pH that does not significantly differ from that of the predominant acid or acid food, or foods that are stored, distributed, and retailed under refrigeration.

Adequate - that which is needed to accomplish the intended purpose in keeping with good public health practice.

Adulterated food - consists of any of the following:

(a) Food that:

(1) Has been manufactured under such conditions that it is unfit for food; or if the food has been prepared, packed, or held under unsanitary conditions whereby it may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health within the meaning of 9 CFR 331.5 - Criteria and procedure for designating establishments with operations which would clearly endanger the public health; disposition of products; application of regulations; or 21 CFR 114.5 - Current good manufacturing practice; and

(2) Is covered by specific regulations for good manufacturing practices; or

(b) A food, including egg or egg product, that:

(1) Bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health; but if the substance is not an added substance such food shall not be considered adulterated under this clause if the quantity of such substance in such food does not ordinarily render it injurious to health;

(2) Bears or contains any added poisonous or added deleterious substance other than one which is:

(A) A pesticide chemical in or on a raw agricultural commodity;

(B) A food additive; or

(C) A color additive which is unsafe within the meaning of 9 CFR 301.2 - Definitions;

(3) Is, in whole or part, a raw agricultural commodity and bears or contains a pesticide chemical which is unsafe within the meaning of 9 CFR 301.2 - Definitions;

(4) Bears or contains any food additive which is unsafe within the meaning of 9 CFR 301.2 - Definitions;

(5) Consists in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance, or if it is otherwise unfit for human food;

(6) Consists in whole or in part of any damaged egg or eggs to the extent that the egg meat or white is leaking, or it has been contacted by egg meat or white leaking from other eggs;

(7) Has been prepared, packaged, or held under unsanitary conditions whereby it may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health within the meaning of 21 CFR 114.5 - Current good manufacturing practice;

(8) Is an egg or the product of any egg that has been subjected to incubation;

(9) Has been in a container that is composed, in whole or in part, of any poisonous or deleterious substance that may render the contents injurious to health;

(10) Has been intentionally subjected to radiation, unless the use of the radiation was in conformity with a regulation or exemption in effect pursuant to 9 CFR 381.1 - Definitions; or

(11) Has any valuable constituent that has been in whole or in part omitted or abstracted from the egg or egg product, or has any substance substituted, wholly or in part for the egg or egg product, or has damage or inferiority that has been concealed in any manner; or has had any substance added to or mixed or packed with the egg or egg product so as to increase its bulk or weight, or reduce its quality or strength, or make it appear better or of greater value than it is.

Advertisement - a representation made, other than by labeling, for the purpose of inducing, or which is likely to induce, directly or indirectly, the purchase of food.

Air gap - the unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank, plumbing fixture or other device and the flood level rim of that receptacle.

Allergen - foods that are commonly known to cause serious allergenic responses, including, but not limited to, milk, eggs, fish, crustacea, mollusks, tree nuts, wheat, and legumes, particularly peanuts and soybeans.

Anicteric - not accompanied or characterized by jaundice.

Applicant - any person or entity that has submitted an application to the Department for a license or certification to operate a food processing operation or a shellfish operation.

Approved - acceptable to the Department or other regulatory authority based on a determination of conformity with principles, practices, and generally recognized standards that protect public health.

Artesian water - bottled water from a well tapping a confined aquifer in which the water level stands above the water table. "Artesian water" shall meet the requirements of "natural water."

Asymptomatic - without obvious symptoms and not showing or producing indications of a disease or other medical condition, such as an individual infected with a pathogen but not exhibiting or producing any signs or symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, or jaundice. An asymptomatic individual may not be showing symptoms because symptoms have resolved or subsided, or because symptoms never manifested.

Backflow - the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances into the distribution pipes of a potable water supply from any source or sources other than the intended source.

Back siphonage - the flowing back of used, contaminated or polluted water from a plumbing fixture, vessel or other source into potable water supply pipes because of negative pressure in the water supply pipes.

Bottled water - water that is placed in a sealed container or package and is offered for sale for human consumption or other consumer uses.

Capable of use as human food - applies to any egg or egg product unless it is denatured, or otherwise identified, as required by regulations prescribed by the Director, to deter its use as human food.

Certification - the approval issued by the Department to a Molluscan Shellfish Dealer according to the provisions of the NSSP for each location in which the dealer conducts a shellfish operation. Each certification shall contain a certification number that consists of a one to five digit Arabic number preceded by "DC" the two letter abbreviation for the District of Columbia, followed by a two letter abbreviation for the type of activity or activities the dealer is qualified to perform in accordance with this Code using the following terms:

(a) Shellstock shipper (SS);

(b) Shucker-packer (SP);

(c) Repacker (RP); and

(d) Reshipper (RS).

CFR - the Code of Federal Regulations. Citations in this Code to the CFR refer sequentially to the Title, Part, and Section numbers. For example, 40 CFR 180.194 refers to Title 40, Part 180, Section 194.

Color additive - has the meaning stated in 21 CFR 70.3 Definitions.

Commingle or commingling - the act of combining different lots of shellstock or shucked shellfish.

Compliance schedule - a written schedule that provides a correction time period to eliminate critical and noncritical violations.

Conditional employee - a potential food employee to whom a job offer is made, conditional on responses to subsequent medical questions or examinations designed to identify potential food employees who may be suffering from a disease that can be transmitted through food.

Confirmed disease outbreak - a foodborne disease outbreak in which laboratory analysis of appropriate specimens identifies a causative agent and epidemiological analysis implicates the food as the source of the illness; or when two (2) or more persons experience a similar illness after ingestion of a common food and epidemiological analysis implicates the food as the source of the illness; or a single case of illness from botulism or chemical poisoning.

Consumer - a person, who is a member of the public, takes possession of food, does not operate a food processing operation, and does not offer the food for resale. A consumer also includes any person who purchases eggs for his or her own family use or consumption, or any restaurant, hotel, boarding house, bakery, or other institution or concern which purchases eggs for serving to guests or patrons thereof, or for its own use in cooking or baking.

Container - any box, can, tin, plastic, or other receptacle, wrapper, or cover or any bag, sack, tote, conveyance or other receptacle in which food is packaged.

Corrosion-resistant material - a material that maintains acceptable surface cleanability characteristics under prolonged influence of the food to be contacted, the normal use of cleaning compounds and sanitizing solutions, and other conditions of the use environment.

Critical Control Point - a point, step or procedure in a food process at which control can be applied and a food safety hazard can as a result be prevented, eliminated or reduced to acceptable levels.

Critical item - a provision of this Code that, if in noncompliance, is more likely than other violations to contribute to food contamination, illness, or an environmental health hazard. Critical items are denoted in this Code with an asterisk (*).

Critical limit - the maximum or minimum value to which a physical, biological, or chemical parameter must be controlled at a critical control point to prevent, eliminate or reduce to an acceptable level the occurrence of the identified food safety hazard.

Critical violation - a condition or practice that violates this Code and results in the production of a product that is adulterated, decomposed, misbranded, or unwholesome; or presents a threat to the health or safety of the consumer.

Cross connection - an unprotected actual or potential connection between a potable water system and any source or system containing unapproved water or a substance that is not or cannot be approved as safe and potable. Examples are bypass arrangements, jumper connections, removable sections, swivel or change over devices, or other devices through which backflow could occur.

Cull - to remove dead or unsafe shellstock from a lot of shellstock.

Dealer - any person who engages in, or desires to engage or continue to engage in the activities of shellstock shipper, shucker-packer, repacker, or reshipper of molluscan shellfish according to the provisions of the NSSP.

Department - the District of Columbia Department of Health.

Distilled water - bottled water that has been produced by a process of distillation and meets the definition of purified water in the most recent edition of the United States Pharmacopeia.

Egg - The shell egg of the domesticated chicken, turkey, duck, goose, or guinea, or any other species of fowl. The term does not include a balut, the egg of reptile such as an alligator, or an egg product.

Egg handler - any person who produces, contracts for, or obtains possession or control of eggs for the purpose of sale to another dealer or retailer, or for processing and sale to a dealer, retailer or consumer: The term "sell" or "sale" includes to offer for sale, expose for sale, or to have in one's possession for sale, exchange, barter, trade, or as an inducement for the sale of another product.

Egg product - all or a portion of the contents found inside eggs separated from the shell and pasteurized in a food processing operation, with or without added ingredients, that are intended for human consumption, such as dried, frozen or liquid eggs. Egg products do not include food which contains eggs only in a relatively small proportion such as cake mixes.

Employee - the licensee, person in charge, food employee, person having supervisory or management duties, person on the payroll, family member, volunteer, person performing work under contractual agreement, or other person working in a food processing operation.

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) - E. coli that cause hemorrhagic colitis, meaning bleeding enterically or bleeding from the intestine. The term is typically used in association with E. coli that have the capacity to produce Shiga toxins and to cause attaching and effacing lesions in the intestine. EHEC is a subset of Shiga Toxin- producing E. coli. (STEC), whose members produce additional virulence factors which include hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Examples of serotypes of EHEC include: E. coli O157:117; E. coli O157:NM; E.coli O26:H11; E. coli O145:NM; E. coli O103:112; and E. coli O111:NM.

EPA - the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Equipment - an article that is used in a food processing operation such as a freezer, grinder, hood, ice maker, meat block, mixer, oven, reach-in refrigerator, scale, sink, slicer, stove, table, temperature measuring device for ambient air, vending machine, or warewashing machine The term does not include apparatuses used for handling or storing large quantities of packaged foods that are received from a supplier in a cased or overwrapped lot, such as hand trucks, forklifts, dollies, pallets, racks, or skids.

Exclude - to prevent a person from working as an employee in a food processing operation.

FDA - the United States Food and Drug Administration.

Federal Safe Drinking Water Act - the Safe Drinking Water Act, approved December 16, 1974 (88 Stat. 1660; 42 U.S.C. § 300f et seq.).

Federal Food Act - the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, approved June 25, 1938 (52 Stat. 1040; 21 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.).

Food - shall have the meaning specified in section 201 of the Federal Food Act (21 U.S.C. § 321).

Food-contact surface - a surface of equipment or a utensil with which food normally comes into contact or a surface of equipment or a utensil from which food may drain, drip, or splash into a food or onto a surface normally in contact with food, including equipment or a surface or utensil that normally comes into direct or indirect contact with shucked shellfish.

Food employee - an individual working with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or food-contact surfaces. This could include the owner, an individual having supervisory or management duties, person on payroll, family member, volunteer, person performing work under contractual agreement, or any other person working in a food processing plant.

Food operation - the premises, practices, and procedures associated with a specific type of activity within a food processing operation.

Food processing - the handling or processing of food in any manner of preparation for sale for human consumption, except that food processing does not include the handling of fresh fruits or vegetables that are merely washed or trimmed while being prepared or packaged for sale in their natural state.

Food processing operation - any of the following:

(a) Any premises, plant, establishment, building, room, area, facility and the appurtenances thereto, in whole or in part, where food is prepared, handled or processed in any manner for distribution or sale for resale by retail outlets, restaurants, and any such other facility selling or distributing to the ultimate consumer;

(b) A commercial operation that manufactures, processes, packages, labels, or stores food for human consumption or provides food for sale or distribution to business entities such as other food processing operations or food establishments as defined in 25 DCMR § 9901. A food processing operation includes a place used for or in connection with commercial food manufacturing, preparation, processing, packaging, canning, freezing, storing, distributing, labeling, or holding. The term includes, but is not limited to bakery plants, confectionery plants, egg processing plants, food manufacturing plants, frozen food manufacturing plants, fresh and frozen seafood processing operations, shellfish processing operations, food storage warehouses, refrigerated lockers, food distribution centers, ice manufacturing plants, soft drink manufacturing plants, bottled water manufacturing plants, breweries, wineries, distilleries, food transfer stations, and meat processing plants that are not subject to regulation by the United States Department of Agriculture; or

(c) Any custom cannery or processing operation where raw food products, food, or food products are processed for the owner thereof, or the food processing facilities are made available to the owners or persons in control of raw food products or food or food products for processing in any manner

Food safety hazard - any biological, chemical or physical property that may cause a food to be unsafe for human consumption.

Food storage warehouse - any premise, establishment, building, room area, facility, or place, in whole or in part, where food is stored, kept, or held for wholesale distribution to other wholesalers or to retail outlets, restaurants, and any other facility selling or distributing food to the ultimate consumer. The term does not include grain elevators or fruit and vegetable storage and packing houses that store, pack, and ship fresh fruit and vegetables.

HACCP - the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point principles developed by the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods.

HACCP Plan - a written document that delineates formal procedures for following the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point principles developed by the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods, or that a shellfish dealer follows to implement the HACCP requirements set forth in 21 CFR 123.6 as adopted by the ISSC.

IgG - a class of immunoglobulins that include the most common antibodies circulating in the blood, that facilitate the phagocytic destruction of microorganisms foreign to the body, that bind to and activate complement, and that are the only immunoglobulins to cross over the placenta from mother to fetus; an immunoglobulin of the class of IgG.

Imminent health hazard - a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury.

Inspection item - standard criteria under which single or multiple observations of specific critical or noncritical violations can be debited.

Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List (ICSSL) - a monthly FDA publication of shellfish dealers, domestic and foreign, who have been certified by a state or foreign Authority as meeting the public health control measures specified in this Code. An ICSSL Link is accessible through the ICSSL website at http://www.issc.org/

Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference (ISSC) - the organization which consists of agencies from shellfish producing and receiving States, FDA, the shellfish industry, the National Marine Fisheries Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The ISSC provides the formal structure wherein State regulatory authorities, with FDA concurrence, can establish updated guidelines and procedures for sanitary control of the shellfish industry.

Licensee - the holder of a license to operate a food processing operation. Lot - the food produced during a period of time indicated by a specific code.

Low-acid food - any food, other than an alcoholic beverage, that has a finished equilibrium pH greater than four and six tenths (4.6) and a water activity (aw.) greater than eighty-five hundredths (0.85). Tomatoes and tomato products having a finished equilibrium pH less than four and seven tenths (4.7) are not classed as low-acid foods.

Mineral water - bottled water that contains not less than two hundred and fifty parts per million (250 ppm) total dissolved solids that originate from a geologically and physically protected underground water source. Mineral water is characterized by constant levels and relative proportions of minerals and trace elements at the source. No minerals may be added to mineral water.

National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) - a Federal, State, Industry voluntary cooperative program that relies on regulatory controls by the State Shellfish Authority to ensure safe molluscan shellfish. The NSSP was developed through a Memorandum of Understanding between the FDA and the ISSC, of which the District of Columbia is a member.

Natural water - bottled spring, mineral, artesian, or well water that is derived from an underground formation. Natural water may be derived from a public water system if that supply has a single source such as an actual spring, artesian well, or pumped well, and has not undergone any treatment that changes its original chemical makeup except ozonization or an equivalent disinfection process.

Person - an association, a corporation, individual, partnership, trustee, government or governmental subdivision, or other legal entity.

Pest - any objectionable animal or insect including, but not limited to birds, rodents, flies, and larvae.

Personal care items - an item or substance that may be poisonous, toxic, or a source of contamination that is used to maintain or enhance a person's health, hygiene or appearance. Personal care items include medicines, first aid supplies, cosmetics, and toiletries such as toothpaste and mouthwash.

pH - the symbol for the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration, which is a measure of the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution. Values between zero (0) and seven (7) indicate acidity and values between seven (7) and fourteen (14) indicate alkalinity. The value for pure distilled water is seven (7), which is considered neutral.

Physical facilities - the structure and interior surfaces of a food processing operation, including accessories such as soap and towel dispensers and attachments such as light fixtures and heating or air conditioning system vents.

Plumbing fixture - a receptacle or device that is permanently or temporarily connected to the water distribution system of the premises and demands a supply from the system or discharges used water, waste materials, or sewage directly or indirectly to the drainage system of the premises.

Plumbing system - the water supply and distribution pipes; plumbing fixtures and traps; soil, waste, and vent pipes; sanitary and storm sewers and building drains, including their respective connections, devices, and appurtenances within the premises; and water- treating equipment.

Poisonous or deleterious substance - a toxic substance occurring naturally or added to the environment for which a regulatory tolerance limit or action level has been established in shellfish to protect public health.

Poisonous or toxic materials - any of the following substances that are not intended for ingestion:

(a) Cleaners and sanitizers, including cleaning and sanitizing agents and agents such as caustics, acids, drying agents, polishes, and other chemicals;

(b) Pesticides, except sanitizers, including insecticides and rodenticides;

(c) Substances necessary for the operation and maintenance of the food processing operation, such as nonfood grade lubricants and personal care items that may be deleterious to health; and

(d) Substances that are not necessary for the operation and maintenance of the food processing operation, including but not limited to substances on the premises for retail sale, such as petroleum products and paints.

Potentially hazardous food - any of the following:

(a) A food that requires time/temperature control for safety (TCS) to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation, including:

(1) An animal food that is raw or heat-treated; a plant FOOD that is heat- treated or consists of raw seed sprouts, cut melons, cut tomatoes or mixtures of cut tomatoes that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation, or garlic-in-oil mixtures that are not modified in a way so that they are unable to support pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation; and

(2) Except as specified in section (b)(4) of this definition, a food that because of the interaction of its aw and ph values is designated as Product Assessment Required (PA) in Table A or B of this definition:

Table A. Interaction of ph and aw for control of spores in food heat-treated to destroy vegetative cells and subsequently packaged

aw values

ph values

4.6 or less

4.6 — 5.6

5.6

< 0.92

non-PHF*/non-TCS food**

non-PHF/non-TCS food

non-PHF/non-TCS food

0.92 - .95

non-PHF/non-TCS

food

food

non-PHF/non-TCS

PA* * *

  • PHF means Potentially Hazardous Food

** TCS food means Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food

*** PA means Product Assessment required

Table B. Interaction of ph and aw for control of vegetative cells and spores in food not heat-treated or heat-treated but not packaged

aw values

ph values

< 4.2

4.2 - 4.6

4.6 - 5.0

5.0

< 0.88

non-PHF*/non- TCS food**

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

0.88 - 0.90

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

non-PHF/non- TCS food

PA***

0.90 - 0.92

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

PA

PA

0.92

non-PHF/ non-TCS food

PA

PA

PA

  • PHF means Potentially Hazardous Food

** TCS food means Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food

*** PA means Product Assessment required

(b) The term does not include:

(1) An air-cooled hard-boiled egg with shell intact, or an egg with shell intact that is not hard-boiled but has been pasteurized to destroy all viable salmonellae;

(2) A food in an unopened hermetically sealed container that is commercially processed to achieve and maintain commercial sterility under conditions of non-refrigerated storage and distribution;

(3) A food that because of its ph or aw value, or interaction of aw value or ph values, is designated as a non-PHF/non-TCS food in Table A or B of this definition;

(4) A food that is designated as Product Assessment Required (PA) in Table A or B of this definition and has undergone a Product Assessment showing that the growth or toxin formation of pathogenic microorganisms that are reasonably likely to occur in that food is precluded due to:

(A) Intrinsic factors, including added or natural characteristics of the food such as preservatives, antimicrobials, humectants, acidulants, or nutrients;

(B) Extrinsic factors, including environmental or operational factors that affect the food such as packaging, modified atmosphere such as reduced oxygen packaging, shelf life and use, or temperature range of storage and use; or

(C) A combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors; or

(5) A food that does not support the growth or toxin formation of pathogenic microorganisms in accordance with one of the sections in (b)(1) through (b)(4) of this definition even though the food may contain a pathogenic microorganism or chemical or physical contaminant at a level sufficient to cause illness or injury.

Potable water means a water supply that meets the requirements of 40 CFR Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

Premises - the physical facility of a food processing operation, its contents, and the contiguous land or property under the control of the licensee or dealer.

Processing - the canning, freezing, drying, dehydrating, cooking, pressing, powdering, packaging, baking, heating, mixing, grinding, churning, separating, extracting, cutting, fermenting, eviscerating, preserving, jarring, or otherwise processing food, including:

(a) Manufacturing egg products, including breaking eggs or filtering, mixing, blending, pasteurizing, stabilizing, cooling, freezing, drying, or packaging egg products;

(b) Any operation or combination of operations, whereby poultry is slaughtered, eviscerated, canned, salted, stuffed, rendered, boned, cut up, or otherwise manufactured or processed but does not include freezing of poultry products, except when freezing is incidental to operations otherwise classed as "processing" under this paragraph;

(c) Activities that are directly related to the production of juice products but do not include:

(1) Harvesting, picking, or transporting raw agricultural ingredients of juice products, without otherwise engaging in processing; and

(2) The operation of a retail establishment; and

(d) Handling, storing, preparing, heading, eviscerating, shucking, freezing, changing into different market forms, manufacturing, preserving, packing, labeling, dockside unloading, or holding of fish or fishery products but does not include:

(1) Harvesting or transporting fish or fishery products, without otherwise engaging in processing;

(2) Practices such as heading, eviscerating, or freezing intended solely to prepare a fish for holding on board a harvest vessel; and

(3) The operation of a retail establishment.

Public health significance - the potential for causing diseases and symptoms, as specified in chapter 3 of this Code that include but are not limited to:

(a) Diarrhea;

(b) Fever;

(c) Jaundice;

(d) Vomiting

(e) Sore throat with fever;

(f) Boils;

(g) Salmonella Typhi;

(h) Shigella spp.;

(i) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli;

(j) Hepatitis A virus; or

(k) Norovirus.

Public water system - a system for the provision to the public of water for human consumption through pipes or, after August 5, 1998, other constructed conveyances, if such system has at least fifteen (15) service connections or regularly serves an average of at least twenty-five (25) individuals daily at least sixty (60) days out of the year including any collection, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities under the control of the operator of such system and used primarily in connection with such system; and any collection or pretreatment storage facilities not under such control which are used primarily in connection with such system.

Pull date - the latest date a packaged food product shall be offered for sale to the public.

Purified water - bottled water produced by distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis, or other suitable process and that meets the definition of purified water in the most recent edition of the United States Pharmacopeia. Water that meets this definition and is vaporized, then condensed, may be labeled "distilled water."

Raw shellfish - shellfish that have not been thermally processed to an internal temperature of one hundred forty-five degrees Fahrenheit (145° F) (sixty-two degrees Centigrade (62 ° C)) or greater for fifteen seconds (15 sec.); or to alter organoleptic characteristics.

Recall - a licensee's or dealer's removal or correction of a marketed product that the FDA or other responsible agency, such as the United States Department of Agriculture, Federal Trade Commission, or United States Customs Service considers to be in violation of the laws it administers and against which the agency would initiate legal action, e.g., seizure. Recall does not include a market withdrawal or a stock recovery, as defined in 21 CFR 7.3 - Definitions. A recall may be initiated: (1) voluntarily by the firm that has primary responsibility for the manufacture or marketing of the product; or (2) at the request of the FDA or other responsible agency. Information regarding recall activities is shared with state agencies and the Department through daily faxed Recall Notices or other government reports. The state agencies and the Department monitor recall activities to ensure non-compliant products are removed from the market through recall audit checks.

Refrigerated locker - any place, premises or establishment where facilities for the cold storage and preservation of human food in separate and individual compartments are offered to the public upon a rental or other basis providing compensation to the person offering such services. The term includes chill rooms, sharp freeze rooms and compartments, and locker rooms.

Refuse - solid waste not carried by water through the sewage system.

Repacker - any person, other than the original certified shucker packer, who repackages shucked shellfish into other containers.

Represent - to hold out as or to advertise.

Reshipper - a person who purchases shucked shellfish or shellstock from dealers and sells the product without repacking or relabeling to other dealers, wholesalers, or retailers.

Restrict - to limit the activities of a food employee so that there is no risk of transmitting a disease that is transmissible through food and the food employee does not work with exposed food, clean equipment or utensils, food contact surfaces, or food-packaging materials.

Restricted egg - any check, dirty egg, incubator reject, inedible, leaker, or loss.

Restricted use pesticide - a pesticide product that contains the active ingredients specified in 40 CFR 152.175 - Pesticides classified for restricted use, and that is limited to use by or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator.

Retailer or retail establishment - an operation that stores, prepares, packages, serves, vends, or otherwise provides food for human consumption directly to consumers; and includes any person in intrastate commerce who sells eggs to a consumer.

Rework - clean, unadulterated food that has been removed from processing for reasons other than unsanitary conditions or that has been successfully reconditioned by reprocessing and is suitable for use as food.

Safe materials - articles manufactured from or composed of materials that may not reasonably be expected to, directly or indirectly, become a component of or otherwise adversely affect the characteristics of any food.

Sanitation control record - a record that documents the monitoring of sanitation practices and conditions during processing.

Sanitization - the application of cumulative heat or chemicals on cleaned food-contact surfaces that, when evaluated for efficacy, is sufficient to yield a reduction of five (5) logs, which is equal to a ninety-nine and nine hundred, ninety-nine thousands of a percent (99.999%) reduction of representative disease microorganisms of public health importance.

Sanitize - the application of a bactericidal treatment which is approved as being effective in destroying microorganisms, including pathogens:

(a) To adequately treat food contact surfaces by a process that is effective in destroying vegetative cells of microorganisms of public health significance substantially reducing the numbers of other undesirable microorganisms and not adversely affecting the product or its safety for the consumer; or

(b) To treat hands in accordance with the requirements in section 404.

Scheduled process - the process selected by a processor as adequate for use under food manufacturing conditions to achieve and maintain a food that will not permit the growth of microorganisms having public health significance.

Sealed - free of cracks or other openings that allow the entry or passage of moisture.

Service animal - an animal such as a guide dog, signal dog, or other animal trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Sewage - liquid waste containing animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution and may include liquids containing chemicals in solution.

Shelf life - the length of time during which a packaged food product will retain its safe consumption quality if stored under proper temperature conditions.

Shellfish - all aspects of:

(a) Oysters, clams, or mussels, whether:

(1) Shucked or in the shell;

(2) Raw, including post harvest processed;

(3) Fresh or frozen; or

(4) Whole or in part; and

(b) Scallops in any form, except when the final product form is the adductor muscle only.

Shellfish dealer - any person who engages in, or desires to engage or continue to engage in the wholesale handling, shipping, or repacking of molluscan shellfish according to the provisions of the NSSP.

Shellstock - live molluscan shellfish in the shell.

Shellstock Shipper (SS) - a dealer who grows, harvests, buys, or repacks and sells shellstock. A shellstock shipper may also ship shucked shellfish. A shellstock shipper is not authorized to shuck shellfish or to repack shucked shellfish.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) - any E. coli capable of producing Shiga toxins (also called verocytotoxins or "Shiga-like" toxins). Examples of serotypes of STEC include both O157 and non-O157 E. coli.

Shucker-Packer (SP) - a person who shucks and packs shellfish. A shucker-packer may act as a shellstock shipper or reshipper or may repack shellfish originating from other certified dealers.

Smooth -

(a) A food-contact surface having a surface free of pits and inclusions with a cleanability equal to or exceeding that of (100) grit number three (3) stainless steel;

(b) A nonfood-contact surface of equipment having a surface equal to that of commercial grade hot-rolled steel free of visible scale; or

(c) A floor, wall, or ceiling having an even or level surface with no roughness or projections that renders it difficult to clean.

Spring water - water derived from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface of the earth. "Spring water" shall meet the requirements of "natural water."

Standard of Identity - a government regulation which establishes the criteria which must be met before foods can be labeled in a certain way.

Supervisor - a licensee or an employee of a licensee who, when present at the food processing operation, is responsible for the food processing operation or for the food processing operation's compliance with some or all of the provisions of this Code.

Temperature measuring device - a thermometer, thermocouple, thermistor, or other device that indicates the temperature of food, air, or water.

Transaction record - the form or forms used to document each purchase or sale of shellfish at the wholesale level, including shellfish harvest and sales records, ledgers, purchase records, invoices and bills of lading.

USDA - the United States Department of Agriculture.

Utensil - a food-contact implement or container used in the storage, preparation, transportation; dispensing; sale or service of food including kitchenware or tableware that is multiuse, single-service, or single-use; gloves used in contact with food; temperature sensing probes or measuring devices; and probe-type price or identification tags used in contact with food.

Vehicle - a commercial vehicle or commercial vessel which has a gross weight of more than ten thousand pounds, is used to transport property, and is a motor vehicle, motor truck, trailer, railroad car, or vessel.

Warewashing - the cleaning and sanitizing of utensils and the food-contact surfaces of equipment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 5245 (July 3, 2009).

25-C SWIMMING POOL AND SPA REGULATIONS

25-C1 TITLE, INTENT, SCOPE

25-C DCMR § 100 TITLE ─ Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, and Saunas

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, and Saunas hereinafter referred to as “these regulations.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 100
25-C DCMR § 101 INTENT – SAFETY

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to prevent disease, sanitary nuisances, and accidents that threaten or impair the public’s health and safety, and to prevent any modifications that result in unsanitary operations or danger to public health or safety.

101.2 These regulations prescribe minimum design, construction, and operation requirements that are intended to protect the health and safety of the public in swimming pools and spas.

101.3 The Department shall regulate certain aspects of the design, equipment, operation, installation, new construction and rehabilitation of swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas. Where adequate standards do not exist and these regulations do not provide sufficient guidance for consideration of innovations in design, construction and operation of proposed swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas, the Department will establish requirements necessary to protect the health and safety of patrons.

101.4 These regulations establish definitions; set quality control standards for personnel, health, sanitary operations, equipment and facilities; provide for the issuance of licenses and certifications and inspections; and provide for enforcement through suspension and revocation of licenses and certifications, condemnation of equipment, and fines and penalties.

101.5 These regulations shall not apply to:

(a) A swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna that is less than twenty-four inches (24 in.) (six hundred and ten millimeters (610 mm)) deep or that has a surface area less than two hundred fifty (250) square feet (twenty-three and twenty-five squared meters (23.25m²)), except when permanently equipped with a water-recirculating system or constructed with structural materials;

(b) Private single family residential swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas as regulated by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), and as defined in these Regulations;

(c) A swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna which is completely emptied of water, disinfected, and refilled with water between each use and that is intended for use or used by a single individual during each use; or

(d) A swimming pools, spa pools, or saunas that are operated for medical treatment or physical therapy, and water therapy facilities under the direction and control of medical personnel licensed pursuant to Section 501 of the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995 (D.C. Law 10-247; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01 (2016 Repl.)), as defined in these Regulations.

101.6 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance serves as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

101.7 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to serve as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A headnote that is denoted in these regulations without an asterisk (*) is a noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a noncritical item with a superscripted letter “N” following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 101
25-C DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH DISTRICT LAWS, FEDERAL LAWS, AND INDUSTRY STANDARDS/GUIDELINES

102.1 The most recent versions of District and federal laws and regulations or any successor standards are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act of 2007, approved December 19, 2007 (Pub.L.110-140);

(b) 40 CFR Part 141 – National Primary Drinking Water Regulations;

(c) National Sanitation Foundation NSF-ANSI Standard 60-2005 Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals – Health Effects;

(d) Department of Justice (DOJ) 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards, 28 CFR Part 36, Subpart D, effective March 15, 2012;

(e) National Sanitation Foundation NSF/ANSI Standard 50-2007 Circulation System Components and Related Materials for Swimming Pools, Spas/Hot Tubs, dated April 2007, approved substitute filters;

(f) American National Standard ASME A112.19.8 - 2007 Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; performance standard;

(g) ASME/ANSI standard A112.19.7 Safety Standard Vacuum Release System or ASTM standard F2387;

(h) American National Standard Specifications for Ceramic Tile A137.1-2012 (Dynamic Coefficient of Fiction Specification and Testing for Slip Resistance);

(i) U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Publication No. 362 Guidelines, entitled “Safety Barrier Guidelines for Home Pools; and any other pool safety guidelines established by the Commission;

(j) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “The Model Aquatic Health Code” 2nd Edition (July 2016);

(k) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), 2012 - 2013;

(l) National Federation of State High School Associations, 2015 - 2016; and

(m) The District of Columbia’s Construction Codes Supplements of 2013, Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, (61 DCR 3453 (March 28, 2014 – Part 2)); which consist of the following International Code Council (ICC):

(1) International Building Code (2012 edition);

(2) International Mechanical Code (2012 edition);

(3) International Plumbing Code (2012 edition);

(4) International Fire Code (2012 edition);

(5) International Existing Building Code (2012 edition);

(6) International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (2012 edition); and

(7) The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) National Electrical Code (2014 edition).

102.2 If a conflict arises between a provision in these regulations and a federal law or regulation cited in Subsection102.1 above, the federal law or regulation shall take precedence over these regulations. However, where there is a conflict between provisions in these regulations, the International Codes or their referenced standards, or the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, including standards and amendments, shall take precedence.

102.3 In enforcing the provisions of these regulations, the Department shall regulate certain aspects of a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna’s physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings in use before the effective date of these regulations based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the establishment’s physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings used in the public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna, is in good repair or capable of being maintained in a hygienic condition in compliance with these regulations; or

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings used in public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna will be replaced by an agreed upon date.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). Section 102.1 cites to copyrighted materials that are not republished in these regulations. However, these materials are available on their respective websites, as follows: The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act of 2007, approved December 19, 2007 (Pub.L.110-140) (http://des.sh.gov/organization/divisions/water/wmb/pools/documents/vgb-act.pdf) National Sanitation Foundation NSF-ANSI Standard 60-2005 Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals – Health Effects (http://www.nsf.org/services/by-industry/water-wastewater/water-treatment-chemicals/nsf-ansi-standard-60) National Sanitation Foundation NSF/ANSI Standard 50-2007 Circulation System Components and Related Materials for Swimming Pools, Spas/Hot Tubs, dated April 2007, approved substitute filters (http://standards.nsf.org/apps/group public/download.php/458/50i51r1.pdf) American National Standard ASME A112.19.8 - 2007 Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; performance standard (http://www.poolsafely.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/pssa.pdf) ASME/ANSI standard A112.19.7 Safety Standard Vacuum Release System or ASTM standard F2387 (http://www.poolsafely.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/pssa.pdf) American National Standard Specifications for Ceramic Tile A137.1-2012 (Dynamic Coefficient of Fiction Specification and Testing for Slip Resistance) (http://www.tcnatile.com/) U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Publication No. 362 Guidelines, entitled “Safety Barrier Guidelines for Home Pools; and any other pool safety guidelines established by the Commission (http://www.anotherperfectpoolnews.com/wp-content/CPODocs/VGB Handout.pdf) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “The Model Aquatic Health Code” 2nd Edition (July 2016) (http://www.cdc.gov/mahc/currentedition/index.html) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), 2012 – 2013 (http://www.ncaa.org/) National Federation of State High School Associations, 2015 – 2016 (https://www.nfhs.org/activities-sports/swimming-diving/) The International Council Codes are copyrighted and are not republished in these Regulations. However, copies of the International Council Codes, as amended by the District of Columbia’s Construction Codes Supplements of 2013, are available on the following websites: (a) The District of Columbia Building Supplement (2013) (12 DCMR A) (http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/ibc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000001&bi2=IC-P-2012-000019) (b) The District of Columbia Mechanical Code Supplement (2013)(12 DCMR E) (http://pulicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/imc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000005&bu2=IC-P-2012-000019) (c) The District of Columbia Plumbing Code Supplement (2013)(12 DCMR F) (http://pulicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/ipc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000005&bu2=IC-P-2012-000019) (d) The District of Columbia Fire Code Supplement (2013)(12 DCMR H) (http://pulicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/ifc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000005&bu2=IC-P-2012-000019) (e) The District of Columbia Electrical Code Supplement (2013)(12 DCMR C) (http://www.nfpa.org) (f) The District of Columbia Swimming Pool and Spa Code Supplement (2013)(12 DCMR L) http://pulicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/ispsc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000005&bu2=IC-P-2012-000019) (g) The District of Columbia Existing Building Code http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/iebc/2012/index.htm?bu=IC-P-2012-000006&bu2=IC-P-2012-000019 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 102

25-C2 GENERAL PROVISIONS

25-C DCMR § 200 GENERAL PROVISIONS - SWIMMING POOL SUPERVISION & POSTING REQUIREMENTS*

GENERAL PROVISIONS ─ SWIMMING POOL SUPERVISION & POSTING REQUIREMENTS*

200.1 The licensee may employ the services of a swimming pool Management Company to fulfill the requirements of these regulations.

200.2 All licensees, pool and spa operators, lifeguards or swimming instructors in charge of, or working at, public swimming pools shall be responsible for the supervision and swimming pool.

200.3 The licensee shall ensure that pool and spa operators, lifeguards or swimming instructors possess current first aid training certificates as specified in Subsections 302.3 and 302.4 of these regulations, and that pool and spa operators possess valid certificates issued by the Mayor as required in Subsection 700.4 of these regulations.

200.4 A licensee shall ensure that an individual functioning as both a lifeguard and pool and spa operator is in compliance with the requirements identified in Sections 200.3, 300, 301, 302, 304, 412.5, 412.7, 413.1, 704 and 710.3 of these regulations.

200.5 A licensee shall ensure swimming pools that are two hundred square feet (200 sq. ft.) in area or greater without an approved diving well configuration post a sign in letters that are four inch (4 in.) (one hundred and two millimeters (102 mm)) in height, which states:

“NO DIVING”

200.6 A licensee shall ensure swimming pools where the pool depth is five feet (5 ft.) (1524 mm) or less, a sign displaying “No Diving” symbol shall be posted:

200.7 The “No Diving” symbol in Subsection 200.6 or similar symbol shall be posted on the deck at intervals of not more than twenty-five feet (25 ft.) (seven thousand, six hundred and twenty millimeters (7620 mm)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 200
25-C DCMR § 201 GENERAL PROVISIONS ─ SWIMMING POOL ADMISSION RULES, SIGNS, & POSTINGS*

201.1 Rules for the admission of bathers to the swimming pool shall be enforced and shall have a heading or caption that reads “Pool Rules” printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3() or larger on a backing of durable construction and conspicuously posted in an appropriate location for all bathers to see before entering the swimming pool. The sign shall state the following:

(a) No tobacco products, drink, glass or animals in the pool deck area;

(b) Bathing load: ____ persons;

(c) Pool hours: _____ a.m. to _____ p.m.;

(d) Shower before entering pool area;

(e) Do not swallow the pool water; and

(f) The Pool and Spa Operator at this facility is__________________________ District Permit number ___________.

201.2 Pool closed signs shall be provided and posted at bather entrances whenever a swimming pool’s operating license is summarily suspended for water quality or safety violations.

201.3 All swimming pools shall post a sign for all bathers to see before entering the swimming pool area directing bathers to shower before entering the pool.

201.4 In addition to Subsection 201.1, licensees, pool and spa operators, lifeguards, and swimming instructors shall enforce the following rules including but not limited to:

(a) Restricting the introduction of dirt, excreta, and other extraneous matter into the water by bathers;

(b) Excluding persons from the swimming pool who are intoxicated, and persons who show apparent signs of infection, such as open cuts, wounds, rashes, or blisters.

(c) Restricting the importation of dangerous objects and materials into the swimming pool area;

(d) Prohibiting smoking, and unsafe acts, both in and out of the water;

(e) Prohibiting the use of topical agents including oils, body lotions, and minerals prior to entering, or while in the water. Waterproof sunscreens are allowed when applied and re-applied according to the manufacturers’ recommendations;

(f) The consumption of food or beverages is prohibited on the deck area and a three feet (3 ft.) clearance around the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna perimeter shall be maintained at all times;

(g) Ensuring that small children are water-safe, as defined in these regulations;

(h) Ensuring that small children and frail individuals are properly supervised by a competent water-safe person in addition to the lifeguard; and

(i) Requiring incontinent individuals to wear protective clothing and small children wearing diapers to also wear snuggly-fitting rubber pants.

201.5 In addition to Section 201, when no lifeguard is on duty, a permanently mounted sign shall be printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3 in.) or larger conspicuously posted warning bathers of the following:

“WARNING – NO LIFEGUARD IS ON DUTY. SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK.”

“NO CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF FIFTEEN (15) SHALL USE THE SWIMMING POOL WITHOUT ADULT SUPERVISION.”

“ADULTS SHOULD NOT SWIM ALONE.”

201.6 Wading pools that do not have a lifeguard inside the wading pool enclosure shall have a permanently mounted sign printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3 in.) or larger conspicuously posted which states:

“WARNING – NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 201
25-C DCMR § 202 GENERAL PROVISIONS ─ SPA POOL AND SAUNA ADMISSION RULES, SIGNS, & POSTINGS*

202.1 Rules for the admission to spa pools and saunas shall be enforced and shall have a heading or caption that reads “Spa pools and Saunas Rules” printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3 in.) or larger conspicuously posted adjacent to the entrance to each hot water facility except where notice is provided to bathers pursuant to Subsections 201.1, 201.5, and 201.6. The sign shall state:

(a) Post a sign which reads, “The Pool and Spa Operator at this facility is __________________________ District Permit number ___________;

(b) Do not operate at water temperatures higher than one hundred and four degrees Fahrenheit (104° F) (forty degrees Celsius (40° C)). The actual temperature of this spa pool at o’clock today is _____° F (____________° C) at three (3) hour intervals; and

(c) Bathers shall shower prior to entering the spa pool or sauna;

(d) The maximum number of bathers allowed in the spa or hot tub at one time is ______. The maximum bather load shall be determined on the basis of nine square feet (9 sq. ft.) of water surface per bather;

(e) “Risk of Drowning”;

(f) Unsupervised use by children is prohibited;

(g) Do not use alone;

(h) Always enter and exit slowly and cautiously;

(i) Bathers with a history of heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure or who are pregnant should consult their physician prior to use;

(j) Bathers on medication should consult with their physician prior to use;

(k) Observe a reasonable time limit of 10 – 15 minutes, then shower upon exiting the hot water facility, cool down and rest before returning for another brief stay;

(l) Long exposure may result in discomfort, nausea, dizziness or fainting, a shorter exposure period is recommended when a bather is pregnant;

(m) Do not use while smoking, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medicines, or anything else that may impair the senses or cause drowsiness;

(n) Do not use electrical appliances or devices within five feet (5 ft.) of a spa pool or sauna;

(o) Do not use topical agents including, oils, body lotions, and minerals prior to entering, or while in the water. Waterproof sunscreens are allowed when applied and re-applied according to the manufacturers’ recommendations; and

(p) Bathers with apparent signs of infection or other evidence of high contamination risk, such as open cuts, wounds, rashes, or blisters are excluded, except when certified by a physician not to be in a communicable stage.

202.2 A clock or other time-keeping device that is maintained and in good working condition shall be provided on the deck area and visible to bathers from any location within the spa pool or sauna.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 202
25-C DCMR § 203 GENERAL PROVISIONS ─ AQUATIC FACILITIES, FOOD AND BEVERAGES CONSUMPTION, PROHIBITIONS*

203.1 The consumption of food or beverages is prohibited, except for areas specifically designated as eating areas that are separated from the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna, as specified in Subsection 201.4(f).

203.2 Aquatic facilities that serve food or beverages shall not use containers made of glass or other material which, when broken, could be a hazard to bathers.

203.3 Only water bottles made of non-glass and non-breakable material are allowed on pool decks, and shall not be used by patrons while swimming inside the swimming pool.

203.4 Swimming pools and pool deck areas shall be closed to the public during competitive swimming practices and/or swimming competitions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 203

25-C3 TRAINING & CERTIFICATIONS, DUTIES, FACILITY POSTINGS & USE RESTRICTIONS, AND CHILD SAFETY PLAN*

25-C DCMR § 300 POOL AND SPA OPERATOR ─ TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS, & DEPARTMENT ISSUED REGISTRATION CARD*

300.1 A pool and spa operator shall be on duty during all hours the aquatic facility is open to the public.

300.2 Individuals who maintain the cleanliness, water quality and chemical balance of public swimming pools, spa pools, or saunas shall obtain a Pool and Spa Operator Registration Card issued by the Department.

300.3 Individuals desiring to become pool and spa operators shall attend a training course approved by the Department of Health.

300.4 Course training shall include the following study topics:

(a) Swimming pool and spa pool calculations;

(b) Filter type and filtration circulation;

(c) Water chemistry – balancing & testing;

(d) Spa pools and warm water pools;

(e) Swimming pool and spa pool maintenance;

(f) Operational and safety requirements; and

(g) Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, and Saunas, Title 25-C of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR).

300.5 A pool and spa operator shall demonstrate knowledge of public pools, which includes but is not limited to:

(a) Swimming pool and spa pool cleaning;

(b) General pool maintenance;

(c) Make-up water supply; and

(d) Bacteriological, chemical, and physical quality of water and water purification, testing, treatment, and disinfection procedures.

300.6 Certification does not imply any licensure as a contractor regulated by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

300.7 A pool and spa operator may not affect the structural integrity of the pool or equipment, and shall not delegate work to others, including employees that are not themselves certified under these regulations.

300.8 The Department shall issue Pool and Spa Operators’ Registration Cards that are renewed every three (3) years.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 300
25-C DCMR § 301 LIFEGUARDS ─ DUTIES*

301.1 Where required, lifeguards shall be on the deck and shall observe the pool whenever bathers are in the water or on the pool deck.

301.2 Lifeguards shall be properly attired and readily identifiable as members of the lifeguard staff.

301.3 Lifeguards shall not leave their post for any reason without ensuring that all bathers are out of the water and that they will not return to the water during the lifeguard’s absence.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 301
25-C DCMR § 302 LIFEGUARDS AND SWIMMING INSTRUCTORS ─ TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS*

302.1 Lifeguards and swimming instructors shall receive first aid training, including but not limited to:

(a) Basic treatment of bleeding, shock, sudden illness, and muscular/skeletal injuries as per the guidelines of the National First Aid Science Advisory Board;

(b) Knowing when and how to contact the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (DCFEMS);

(c) Rescue and emergency care skills to minimize movement of the head, neck and spine until DCFEMS arrives for a person who has suffered a suspected spinal injury on land or in the water; and

(d) Use and the importance of universal precautions and personal protective equipment in dealing with body fluids, blood, and preventing contamination according to current OSHA guidelines.

302.2 Lifeguards and swimming instructors’ training in and use of Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and other resuscitation skills shall be professional level skills that follow treatment protocols consistent with the current Emergency Cardiovascular Care Update (ECCU) and/or, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines for cardiac compressions, foreign body restriction removal, and rescue breathing for infants, children, and adults.

302.3 Lifeguards and swimming instructors shall maintain current certifications in lifeguarding or swimming instruction by:

(a) The American Red Cross;

(b) The YMCA or other equivalent nationally recognized aquatic training organization that meets the established standards, objectives and standards of care provided in the American Red Cross or YMCA programs; or

(c) Other nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health.

302.4 Lifeguards and swimming instructors shall possess current certificates in First Aid; and Adult, Child and Infant Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) through the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, the National Safety Council, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, or other nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health.

302.5 Swimming coaches are exempted from the swimming instructor certification requirement when training advanced level swimmers for competition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 302
25-C DCMR § 303 LIFEGUARD REQUIREMENTS ─ SWIMMING POOL, RESTRICTED USE

303.1 Except as provided in Sections 303.2 and 305, a lifeguard shall not be required for a swimming pool that is:

(a) Open for use only to persons who hold membership or other paid association in the facility where the pool is located;

(b) Open for use only to persons who are permanent or temporary residents or guests of residents at the facility where the pool is located;

(c) Open for use to persons who are lodging for a fee at the facility where the pool is located; or

(d) A spa pool or sauna.

303.2 The exemptions identified in Subsection 303.1 shall not apply if a swimming pool has:

(a) A diving board;

(b) A depth of at least five feet (5 ft.) (one and one-half meters (1.5 m)) for non-municipal pools;

(c) An expected bather population of fifty percent (50%) or more children under the age of fifteen (15); or

(d) New construction occurring from the date of adoption of these regulations for any aquatic facility deeper than five feet (5 ft.) (one and one-half meters (1.5 m)) at any point.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 303
25-C DCMR § 304 ADDITIONAL LIFEGUARD REQUIREMENTS ─ BATHER LOAD, POOL SIZE, VISUAL OBSTRUCTIONS, AND DIMENSIONS

304.1 Except as specified in Section 303, there shall be a minimum of one (1) lifeguard on duty capable of observing the swimming pool for every fifty (50) bathers permitted in the water as specified in Table 403.1 of the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC).

TABLE 403.1

MAXIMUM BATHER LOAD

POOL / DECK AREA

SHALLOW INSTRUCTIONAL

OR WADING AREAS

DEEP AREA

(NOT INCLUDING

THE DIVING AREA)

DIVING AREA

(PER EACH

DIVING BOARD)

Pools with minimum deck area

15 sq. ft. per user

20 sq. ft. per user

300 sq. ft.

Pools with deck area

at least equal to water surface area

12 sq. ft. per user

15 sq. ft. per user

300 sq. ft.

Pools with deck area

at least twice the

water surface area

8 sq. ft. per user

10 sq. ft. per user

300 sq. ft.

304.2 In addition to Subsection 304.1, when lifeguards are used, the aquatic facility’s staffing plans shall include diagrammed zones of patron surveillance that:

(a) Ensures qualified lifeguards are capable of viewing the entire area of the assigned zone of patron surveillance;

(b) Ensures qualified lifeguards are able to reach the furthest extent of the assigned zone of patron surveillance within twenty (20) seconds;

(c) Identifies whether qualified lifeguards are in an elevated stand, walking, in-water, and/or other approved position;

(d) Identifies any additional responsibilities for each zone;

(e) All areas of an aquatic facility are assigned a zone of patron surveillance; and

(f) Lifeguard zones of patron surveillance are required in aquatic facility plans submitted for review.

304.3 Pool management shall increase the number of lifeguards based on the number of bathers in the swimming pool.

304.4 The Department of Health may require a lifeguard to be on duty if none exists, or require additional lifeguards to be on the deck, or restrict swimming to one (1) portion of any swimming pool because of the following:

(a) The number of lifeguards is inadequate to safely guard the swimming pool due to the number of bathers using the swimming pool;

(b) The shape, dimension, and layout of the swimming pool and filter room locations;

(c) The existence of an obstruction to vision; or

(d) The capability of the bathers using the swimming pool.

304.5 Swimming pools over eighteen hundred square feet (1800 sq. ft.) of water surface area shall have at least one (1) elevated lifeguard chair for each three thousand square feet (3000 sq. ft.) of swimming pool surface or fraction thereof. A deck-level lifeguard may be used in a designated area on the deck adjacent to shallow water instead of an elevated lifeguard chair.

304.6 Swimming pools with a width of forty-five feet (45 ft.) or more shall have more than one (1) lifeguard chair located on each side of the swimming pool.

304.7 The Department shall accept dimensional standards for competition type pools as published by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), 2012 - 2013 or most recent addition; Fédération Internationale De Natation Amateur (FINA), 2015-2017 Handbook or most recent addition; 2015 - 2017 Official Technical Rules of United States Diving Inc. or most recent addition; 2015 United States Swimming Rules and Regulations or most recent addition, and National Federation of State High School Associations, 2015 - 2016 or most recent addition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 304
25-C DCMR § 305 CHILD SAFETY PLAN

305.1 A swimming pool or spa that does not have a lifeguard on duty shall follow a Child Safety Plan that has been reviewed and approved by the Department during a preoperational inspection.

305.2 The Child Safety Plan shall contain the following information:

(a) The name, address and telephone number of the facility;

(b) The name, address and telephone number of the owner of the facility;

(c) The facility’s swimming season (the months of the year that the pool is open);

(d) The expected number of bathers when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(e) The expected number of bathers who are over the age of fourteen (14) when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(f) The percentage of the expected bathers who are under the age of fourteen (14) when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(g) Specific measures that the facility will undertake (in addition to the posting of signs) to ensure that children under the age of fourteen (14) do not use the spa without adult supervision; and

(h) Specific measures that the facility will undertake to monitor the spa when the spa is open.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 305

25-C4 WATER QUALITY, CIRCULATION SYSTEMS, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

25-C DCMR § 400 WATER QUALITY ─ APPROVED SOURCE*

400.1 The only approved system for pool water shall be potable water from the District of Columbia public water system.

400.2 Existing aquatic facilities shall have at least one (1) drinking fountain directly plumbed and maintained in good repair or shall have at least one (1) water cooler inside the facility.

400.3 If a drinking fountain cannot be provided inside the aquatic facility, it shall be provided in a common use building or area adjacent to the aquatic facility entrance and on the normal path of bathers going to the aquatic facility entrance.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 400
25-C DCMR § 401 WATER QUALITY ─ STANDARDS, DRINKING WATER*

401.1 Potable water shall be used to supply water to all pools and shall meet the requirements of the applicable provisions of 40 CFR Part 141 – National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and the District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 401
25-C DCMR § 402 WATER QUALITY ─ STANDARDS, CLARITY, DEPTH MARKERS, AND TEMPERATURE*

402.1 The pool water shall be 0.5 or less NTU and the main drain grate shall be readily visible from the pool deck.

402.2 The water in an aquatic facility shall be sufficiently clear such that the bottom is visible while the water is static at all times the aquatic facility is open or available for use.

402.3 Depth markers shall be not less than four inches (4 in.) (one hundred and two millimeters (102 mm)) in height. The color of the numbers shall contrast with the background on which they are applied and the color shall be of a permanent nature. The lettering shall spell out the words “feet” and “inches” or abbreviate them as “Ft.” and “In.” respectively. Where displayed in meters in addition to feet and inches, the word meter shall be spelled out or abbreviated as “M”.

402.4 Swimming pools built after adoption of these regulations, shall add a four inch by four inch square (4 in. x 4 in.) (10.2 cm x 10.2 cm) marker tile in a contrasting color to the swimming pool floor, and/or shall add a main suction cover outlined in a contrasting color to the swimming pool floor which are located at the deepest part of the swimming pool floor.

402.5 Swimming pools over ten feet (10 ft.) (3.0 m) deep, an eight inch by eight inch square (8 in. x 8 in.) (20.3 cm x 20.3 cm) marker tile in a contrasting color to the swimming pool floor or main suction outlet shall be located at the deepest part of the swimming pool.

402.6 Spa pools and swimming pools with heaters shall have a maximum water temperature of one hundred and four degrees Fahrenheit (104° F) (forty degrees Celsius (40° C)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 402
25-C DCMR § 403 WATER QUALITY ─ STANDARDS, BACTERIOLOGICAL*

403.1 The pool water shall be free of coliform bacteria contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 403
25-C DCMR § 404 WATER QUALITY ─ STANDARDS, CHEMICAL QUALITY*

404.1 The Department may collect water samples and examine them as necessary to determine compliance with these regulations.

404.2 Chemicals used in controlling the quality of the pool water shall be tested and approved using the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF-ANSI) Standard 60, 2005, which is incorporated by reference into these rules and shall be compatible with other accepted chemicals used in pools. The following parameters shall be adhered to when treating water for swimming pools, spa pools or saunas:

(a) Maintain water pH between 7.2 to 7.8; however:

(1) Water pH shall not be below 6.5; or

(2) Water pH shall not be above 8.0;

(b) Use the following disinfectants –

(1) Free chlorine residual shall be 1 milligram per liter (mg/L) to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools.

(2) Free chlorine residual shall be 2 mg/L to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in all other type pools such as spa-type pools, except spa-type pools which shall be at the minimum of 3 mg/L.

(3) Bromine residual shall be 1.5 mg/L to 8 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools and 4 mg/L to 8 mg/L, inclusive, in all spa-type pools.

(4) Except that, the following maximum disinfectant levels shall apply to indoor conventional swimming pools: 5 mg/L free chlorine or 6 mg/L bromine;

(c) The level of combined Chlorine (Chloramines) use shall not exceed 0.4 ppm (mg/L) – Water with combined chlorine (chloramines) levels in excess of 0.4 ppm (mg/L) shall be reduced by the following actions:

(1) Super-chlorination; or

(2) Water exchange;

(d) When oxidation reduction potential controllers are used – Water potential shall be kept between six hundred to nine hundred millivolts (600 – 900 mv). Use of these units does not negate the manual daily testing requirement of Section 412;

(e) Use of cyanuric acid – shall remain between 30 and 50 mg/L and shall not exceed 100 ppm in swimming pools and in spa pools; and

(f) Use of quaternary ammonium – 5 mg/L maximum.

404.3 Irrigation water that wets the deck area of a pool and the water in the pool shall be potable water. Non-potable irrigation water shall not be applied within ten feet (10 ft.) of the wet deck area.

404.4 Manual addition of chemicals will be allowed under special conditions and requires the pool to be closed prior to addition and for at least one (1) hour after addition, or a longer period as necessary, for sufficient and safe distribution of the chemical. After treatment for breakpoint chlorination and algae prevention, use of the pool can be resumed when the free chlorine levels drop to 10 mg/L, or in compliance with the Safety Data Sheets.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 404
25-C DCMR § 405 WATER QUALITY ─ TEST KITS

405.1 Water quality test kits such as colorimetric, titrimetric, turbidimetric, or electronic are required to be on the premises of all swimming pools and spa pools to determine free active chlorine and total chlorine using N,N-Diethyl-p-Phenylenediamine (DPD), or bromine level, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and pH.

405.2 Water quality test kits shall be provided if the corresponding chemicals are used:

(a) Cyanuric acid;

(b) Sodium chloride;

(c) Quaternary ammonium;

(d) Ozone; and

(e) Copper.

405.3 A single water quality test kit may be used for multiple pools, provided the pools have common ownership and they are located on contiguous property.

405.4 A water quality test kit shall be capable of measuring disinfectant levels in the normal operating range.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 405
25-C DCMR § 406 WATER QUALITY ─ CONTAMINATION

406.1 A swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall be deemed contaminated when one (1) of the following conditions exists:

(a) More than one (1) ten milliliter (10 ml) portion of a sample shows a positive test for coliform organisms when multi-tube fermentation technique is used; or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used; or

(b) Two (2) consecutive samples show a positive test for coliform organisms in any ten milliliter (10 ml) portion of a sample when the multi-tube fermentation technique is used or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used; or

(c) Two (2) of any ten (10) consecutive samples show a positive test for coliform organisms in any of the ten milliliter (10 ml) portions of a sample when the multi-tube fermentation technique is used or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used; or

(d) When performing diarrheal/Cryptosporidium decontamination in aquatic venues, the maximum allowable cyanuric acid concentration shall be 15 ppm.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 406
25-C DCMR § 407 RECIRCULATION AND TREATMENT SYSTEM ─ CROSS-CONNECTION PREVENTION

407.1 An atmospheric break or approved back flow prevention device shall be provided in each pool water supply line that is connected to a public water supply.

407.2 Vacuum breakers shall be installed on all hose bibbs.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 407
25-C DCMR § 408 RECIRCULATION AND TREATMENT SYSTEM ─ SPA POOL AND SAUNA TURNOVER RATES, & PLUMBING SYSTEM*

408.1 The pool recirculation system shall be operated at all times when the pool is open for use. The recirculation system may be shut off three (3) hours after the pool closes and shall be turned back on three (3) hours before opening the pool. Shut down time shall be controlled by a time clock.

408.2 Recirculation and treatment equipment such as filters, recessed automatic surface skimmers, water ionizers, ozone generators, disinfection feeders and chlorine generators shall be tested and approved using the NSF/ANSI Standard 50-2007, Circulation System Components and Related Materials for Swimming Pool and Spas/Hot Tubs.

408.3 The recirculation system shall be designed to provide a minimum of four (4) turnovers of the pool volume per day. Pools that are less than one thousand square feet (1000 sq. ft.) shall be required to provide eight (8) turnovers per day.

408.4 The design pattern of recirculation flow shall be one hundred percent (100%) through the main drain piping and one hundred percent (100%) through the perimeter overflow or sixty percent (60%) through the skimmer system.

408.5 All swimming pools including wading pools and spa pools that are open to the public and that are built without a main drain collector tank shall be retrofitted with a properly sized and piped collector tank to eliminate direct suction through the main drain.

408.6 All existing public swimming pools with direct suction shall install a main drain cover that meets the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8-2007 standard for drain covers.

408.7 Public pools and spas with a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain) shall be equipped with a device or system such as a safety vacuum release system to prevent entrapment.

408.8 Public pools and spas that are not in operation do not need to meet the requirements specified in sections 408.5 and 408.6 until they resume operations.

408.9 A construction permit shall be obtained from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs prior to installation of a collector tank.

408.10 Any pool that cannot be retrofitted as required in Subsections 408.5 and 408.6 shall be closed.

408.11 Newly constructed swimming pools and spas built after the effective date of these regulations shall be built with either:

(a) More than one (1) drain;

(b) One (1) or more unblockable drains; or

(c) No main drain.

408.12 Hot water facilities shall be disinfected with automatic chemical feed equipment as specified in Subsection 607.3 of these regulations.

408.13 The turnover rate shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes.

408.14 The whirlpool shall be designed and the hydraulic analysis calculated to provide a thirty (30)-minute turnover rate when the filter is at maximum pressure and ready to be cleaned or backwashed.

408.15 The filter shall be cleaned or backwashed when the filter pressure and the flow meter indicate it is necessary.

408.16 The plumbing system shall be designed to preclude entrapment in main drains.

408.17 Return fitting(s) shall be provided and arranged to facilitate a uniform circulation of water and maintain a uniform sanitizer residual throughout the entire spa or exercise spa.

408.18 Suction fittings shall be sized and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Spas and exercise spas shall not be used or operated if the suction outlet cover is missing, damaged, broken or loose.

408.19 Submerged vacuum fittings shall be prohibited.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 408
25-C DCMR § 409 CIRCULATION SYSTEMS ─ PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS, TURNOVER RATES*

409.1 Circulation systems for pools shall comply with Section 311 of the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and this section.

409.2 Circulation equipment shall be sized to turn over the entire water capacity of the pool as specified in Table 407.2 of the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). The system shall be designed to provide the required turnover rate based on the maximum pressure and flow rate recommended by the manufacturer for the filter and clean filter media.

TABLE 407.2

TURNOVER RATE

Swimming Pool

Category

Turnover rate

In hours

Class A, B, and C pools

Hours equal 1-1/2 times the average depth of pool in feet not to exceed 6 hours

Wading pools

1

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 409
25-C DCMR § 410 CIRCULATION SYSTEM ─ AQUATIC RECREATION FACILITIES’ TURNOVER RATES, AND skimming systems*

410.1 A circulation system consisting of pumps, piping, return inlets and suction outlets, filters, and other necessary equipment shall be provided for complete circulation of water within the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

410.2 Circulation system equipment shall be designed to turnover one hundred percent (100%) of the nominal pool water volume in the amount of time specified in Table 604.2 of the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC). The system shall be designed to give the required turnover time based on the manufacturer’s recommended maximum pressure and flow of the filter in clean media condition.

TABLE 604.2

TURNOVER TIME

CLASS OF POOL

MAXIMUM TURNOVER

TIMEa

(hours)

D-1

2

D-2 with less than 24 inches water depth

1

D-2 with 24 inches or greater water depth

2

D-3

1

D-4

2

D-5

1

D-6

1

a Pools with a sand bottom require a one (1) hour turnover time.

410.3 Circulation systems shall circulate treated and filtered water for twenty-four (24) hours a day.

410.4 The circulation rate shall be permitted to be reduced during periods that the pool is closed to the public, provided that acceptable water clarity conditions are met prior to reopening the pool for public use. At no time shall the circulation rate be zero.

410.5 Surface skimming systems shall be in accordance with Table 604.3 of the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC).

TABLE 604.3

SURFACE SKIMMING SYSTEMS

CLASS OF POOL

SURFACE SKIMMING SYSTEM

D-1

Zero-depth trench located at static water level or other

skimming systems

D-2

Auto skimmer, zero depth trench or gutters

D-3

Auto skimmer, zero depth trench or perimeter device

D-4

Single or multiple skimmer devices for skimming flow

D-5

Skimmers prohibited in side area

D-6

Auto skimmer, zero depth trench, or gutter

410.6 The installation of skimmers in the side areas of D-5 pools is prohibited.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 410
25-C DCMR § 411 WATER SUPPLY AND WASTEWATER DISPOSAL ─ CONTAMINANTS, REMOVAL

411.1 No direct mechanical connection shall be made between the potable water supply and the swimming pool or spa, chlorinating equipment, or the system of piping for the swimming pool or spa, unless it is protected against backflow and back-siphonage.

411.2 Backwash water or drainage waters of a swimming pool or spa shall be discharged into a sanitary sewer through an approved air gap, or by other means approved by the District Government.

411.3 When necessary, filter backwash water and drainage water shall be treated chemically or through the use of settling tanks to eliminate or neutralize chemicals, diatomaceous earth, and contaminants in the water that exceeds the limits set by the District Government.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 411
25-C DCMR § 412 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ─ DAILY WATER QUALITY & SAFETY LOGS

412.1 Each swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall record the following information on a daily basis, unless otherwise required:

(a) Name of each swimming pool or spa operator on duty;

(b) Name of each lifeguard on duty;

(c) Rate of flow readings;

(d) Weather;

(e) Temperature;

(f) Attendance;

(g) The time of filter backwash or cleaning;

(h) Injuries or accidents at the swimming pool or spa;

(i) Chemicals added to the waters;

(j) Malfunctioning or broken equipment;

(k) pH readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals;

(l) Free chlorine residual readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals;

(m) Total bromine residual readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals; and

(n) Cyanuric acid, if used, residual readings, taken prior to opening the swimming pool or spa for bathers.

412.2 The information required in Subsection 412.1 shall be recorded a minimum of three (3) times per day, unless otherwise required, and in conformance with the following schedule:

(a) The first recording of the day shall be made prior to opening the swimming pool or spa opens to bathers;

(b) The second recording shall be completed between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.; and

(c) The final recording shall be completed two (2) hours before closing.

412.3 The Department may require more frequent recordings than those specified in this section if conditions, including high bather load, high temperatures, bright sunlight, or inadequate water quality exist.

412.4 The daily operational log must be easily readable, dated and signed, and available on the premises for inspection by the Department for a minimum of three (3) years.

412.5 Pool owners, pool and spa operators, and lifeguards shall be responsible for maintaining the daily report logs required in Subsection 412.1.

412.6 Complete reports shall reflect manually conducted pool water tests for pH and disinfectant levels at least as specified in Subsections 412.1(i), (k), (l), (m), and (n).

412.7 Pool owners, pool and spa operators, or lifeguards shall comply with Standard Operating Procedures for accidents involving bodily fluid as specified in Sections 6.0.1.8, 6.0.1.9, 6.1.2.1.4.1, 6.1.2.1.4.5, 6.1.2.1.4.14, 6.1.2.1.4.15, 6.4.1.1.2(4), 6.4.1.3.1(15), 6.4.1.8, and 6.5 of The Model Aquatic Health Code 2nd Edition (July 2016).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 412
25-C DCMR § 413 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS – EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS

413.1 A pool owner, pool and spa operator, lifeguard, or swimming instructor shall report any death, serious injury, or injury that requires resuscitation or admission to a hospital occurring at a swimming pool, spa pool, sauna to the Department within twenty-four hours (24 hrs.) of the incident.

413.2 A pool owner, pool and spa operator, lifeguard, or swimming instructor shall report a complaint of illness attributed by a bather to use of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna to the Department within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident.

413.3 The report to the Department shall include the following:

(a) Name and telephone number or address of the person injured or making a complaint;

(b) Date of the incident or onset of illness;

(c) Description of the type of injury or complaint;

(d) Name and telephone number of the person rendering assistance or first aid;

(e) The name of any known hospital, rescue squad or physician providing medical assistance;

(f) Names and telephone numbers of available witnesses to the incident; and

(g) All physical security breaches.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 413

25-C5 EQUIPMENT, EQUIPMENT ROOM, STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE, AND SAFETY

25-C DCMR § 500 EQUIPMENT ROOMS ─ SECURITY ACCESS*

500.1 Equipment designated by the manufacturer for outdoor use may be located in an equipment area. All other equipment shall be located in an equipment room.

500.2 Plastic pipe subject to a period of prolonged sunlight exposure area shall be surrounded with a fence at least four feet (4 ft.) high on all sides and not confined by a building or equivalent structure.

500.3 A self-closing and self-latching gate with a locking device shall be provided, if necessary for access.

500.4 An equipment room shall be protected on at least three (3) sides and overhead. The fourth side may be a gate, fence, or open if otherwise protected from unauthorized access.

500.5 An equipment room shall be lockable or otherwise protected from unauthorized access.

500.6 Security access shall be installed on all pool equipment rooms for those that do not presently have a similar level of security.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 500
25-C DCMR § 501 EQUIPMENT ROOMS ─ FLOOR COVERING*

501.1 The equipment room floor shall be of concrete or other nonabsorbent material having a smooth slip resistant finish and shall have positive drainage, including a sump pump if necessary.

501.2 Ancillary equipment, such as a heater, shall be stored in an equipment room as specified in Subsection 500.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 501
25-C DCMR § 502 EQUIPMENT ROOMS ─ VENTILATION AND ACCESS*

502.1 Equipment rooms shall have either forced draft or cross ventilation.

502.2 All below grade equipment rooms shall have a stairway access with forced draft ventilation or a fully louvered door and louvered vent on at least one other side.

502.3 Where stairway access is not necessary to carry heavy items into the below grade room or vault, a “ship’s ladder” may be used if approved by the Department.

502.4 The opening to an equipment room shall be a minimum of three feet by six feet (3 ft. x 6 ft.) and shall provide easy access to the equipment.

502.5 A hose bibb with vacuum breaker shall be located in the equipment room.

502.6 A carbon monoxide detector with local alarming, listed and labeled in accordance with UL Standard 2075, shall be installed in all equipment rooms and rooms adjacent to spaces containing fuel-burning equipment or vents carrying the products of combustion.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 502
25-C DCMR § 503 EQUIPMENT AND EQUIPMENT ROOMS ─ SIZE, LIGHTING, MAINTENANCE AND GOOD REPAIR, & PROHIBITED ITEMS*

503.1 All equipment and appurtenances shall be kept in good repair.

503.2 Skimmers and returns shall be adjustable and functioning.

503.3 Filter and pump rooms shall be kept clean and reasonably dry at all times.

503.4 Decks, coping, and fencing shall be in good condition.

503.5 Guard chairs, rails, ladders, steps, ADA deck-mounted equipment, and diving equipment shall be firmly secured to its base in accordance with Table 4.5.5.7 and Figure 4.5.5.7.1 of the 2nd Edition of the Aquatic Model Health Code.

TABLE 4.5.5.7

STAIR HANDRAIL DIMENSIONS

Dimensions

T-1

H-1

Minimum

3 inches

(7.6 cm)

3.4 inches

(86.4 cm)

Maximum

N/A

38 inches

(96.5 cm)

FIGURE 4.5.5.7.1

503.6 The pool and pool deck shall be kept free from sediment, floating debris, visible dirt and algae. Pools shall be refinished when the pool surfaces cannot be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition.

503.7 The pool water level shall be maintained at an elevation suitable for continuous skimming without flooding during periods of non-use.

503.8 Face plates and main grates shall be intact, in place, and secured so that they cannot be removed without the use of tools.

503.9 Hose bibbs shall be in functioning order and vacuum breakers shall be on all hose bibbs.

503.10 Weirs shall be present and functioning.

503.11 Scum gutters shall be free flowing.

503.12 The room housing the swimming pool or spa shall contain adequate ceiling intake vents and shall be exhausted at floor level.

503.13 All other facilities and equipment shall be operable and in good condition.

503.14 The size of an equipment room shall provide working space to perform routine operations.

503.15 Clearance shall be provided for all equipment as prescribed by the manufacturer to allow normal maintenance operation and removal without disturbing other piping or equipment.

503.16 In rooms with fixed ceilings, the minimum ceiling height shall be eight feet (8 ft.).

503.17 Equipment rooms shall be lighted to provide thirty foot (30 ft.) candles of illumination at floor level.

503.18 Equipment rooms shall not be used to store chemical emitting corrosive fumes, and shall be clear of unnecessary or discarded items.

503.19 All chemical tubing that runs through areas where staff works shall be routed in PVC piping to support the tubing and to prevent the supported tubing from leaking.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 503
25-C DCMR § 504 GENERAL AND EMERGENCY POOL LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS

504.1 When a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna is open during periods of low natural illumination, artificial lighting shall be provided so that all areas of the pool, including the bottom main drains are visible.

504.2 Overhead or underwater lighting shall be provided to illuminate the pool and adjacent deck areas. Such lighting shall be installed in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70) National Electrical Code (2014), as specified in Subsection 102.1(l)(7).

504.3 For outdoor pools, overhead lighting shall provide not less than three (3) foot-candles of illumination at the pool water surface and on adjacent deck areas. For indoor pools, overhead lighting shall provide not less than ten (10) foot-candles of illumination at the pool water surface.

504.4 Underwater lighting shall provide a minimum of eight (8) lumens per square foot of pool water surface area, except when overhead lighting provides not less than fifteen (15) foot-candles of illumination at the pool surface.

504.5 Aquatic facilities that operate during periods of low illumination shall be provided with sufficient emergency lighting to permit evacuation of the pool and to secure the area in the event of power failure. The emergency lighting intensity shall not be less than half (½) foot-candle.

504.6 Branch circuits that supply underwater lights operating at more than the Low Voltage Contact Limit as defined in NEC 680.2 shall be Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 504
25-C DCMR § 505 FIRST AID AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT

505.1 Safety equipment shall be mounted in a conspicuous place and be readily available for use.

505.2 All public and semi-public swimming pools shall be provided with the following first aid safety equipment that is quickly accessible:

(a) Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) shall be located:

(1) On the deck near the pool’s perimeter; or

(2) Inside the facility in a room that cannot be locked.

(b) A shepherd’s hook securely attached to a one (1) piece pole not less than sixteen feet (16 ft.) in length;

(c) A minimum of one-fourth (¼) inch diameter throwing rope as long as one and one-half (1½) times the maximum width of the pool or fifty feet (50 ft.), whichever is less, attached to a U.S. Coast Guard approved ring buoy. A rescue-tube shall be accepted as a substitute for the ring buoy where it is accompanied by a lifeguard who has been trained to use it properly;

(d) First aid supplies consisting of:

(1) Splints;

(2) One (1) roll of ½ inch adhesive tape;

(3) Five (5) four inch by four inch (4 in. x 4 in.) gauze pads;

(4) Five (5) two inch by two inch (2 in. x 2 in.) gauze pads;

(5) Twenty-five (25) one inch (1 in.) Band-Aids;

(6) Two (2) one inch (1 in.) roller bandages;

(7) Tape tongue depressors;

(8) Two (2) eye pads;

(9) One (1) Triangular bandage;

(10) Two (2) bee sting swab kits;

(11) One (1) elastic bandage;

(12) One bag instant ice packs or ice Bag with readily available ice;

(13) One (1) bottle of eyewash;

(14) One (1) container of liquid soap;

(15) One (1) facemask for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with one-way valve;

(16) One (1) pair of scissors;

(17) Safety pins;

(18) Single-use, sterilized tweezers; and

(19) Disposable gloves;

(e) Two (2) cots or equivalent and two (2) blankets for emergency use only;

(f) A backboard with properly spaced handholds, head immobilizer, and proper straps to secure the victim;

(g) A blood borne pathogen control kit;

(h) A rescue tube designed for lifesaving for each required lifeguard;

(i) A hard-wired, non-cordless telephone available to individuals using a pool or spa that:

(1) Can directly reach a 911 emergency service without the use of a coin and without connection to an internal switchboard unless the internal switchboard is monitored at all times;

(2) Is posted with the 911 emergency number and the name and location of the pool or spa; and

(3) Is located within the pool enclosure or in an immediately adjacent room, which cannot be locked.

505.3 Pools greater than fifty feet (50 ft.) in length shall have multiple first aid safety equipment with at least one (1) shepherd’s hook and one (1) lifesaving ring located along each of the longer sides of the pools.

505.4 All pools with a slope transition shall have a safety line. The safety line shall be in place at all times unless a lifeguard or swimming instructor is present.

505.5 Pool safety covers required in Subsection 610.10, shall be installed in a track, rail, guides, or secured to the deck, and shall provide a continuous union with the deck, with no passage. In the case of a pool with a width or diameter greater than eight (8) feet (2.4 m) from the periphery, the cover should be able to hold a weight of four hundred and eighty-five (485) pounds (220.0 kg). If the pool width or diameter is less than eight (8) feet (2.4 m) the cover should hold a weight of two hundred and seventy-five (275) pounds (125 kg).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 505

25-C6 PLUMBING SYSTEMS, PHYSICAL STRUCTURE, DESIGN, ACCOMODATIONS, FACILITY MAINTENANCE, AND PEST CONTROL

25-C DCMR § 600 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ BUILDING MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP

600.1 The licensee of a newly constructed, remodeled or renovated swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall ensure that the design, construction, building materials, and workmanship complies with the most recent version of the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, as specified in Subsection 102.1(l) of this chapter, or later construction codes.

600.2 The licensee of an existing swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall maintain the facility in good condition by repairing or replacing structural or design defects, operating systems, or fixtures in use before the effective date of these regulations in accordance with the most recent version of the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, as specified in Subsection 102.1(l) of this chapter.

600.3 At least thirty (30) days before beginning construction or remodeling of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna, the licensee shall submit construction plans with all schedules, including but not limited to floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics, to the Department for review and approval, as specified in Sections 706 and 707.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 600
25-C DCMR § 601 PLUMBING SYSTEMS ─ DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, INSTALLATION, AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES*

601.1 All plumbing systems and hoses that convey water shall be designed, constructed, installed and repaired with approved materials in accordance with the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement of 2013) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

601.2 All toilet facilities shall be easily cleanable.N

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 601
25-C DCMR § 602 PLUMBING SYSTEMS ─ WATER TEMPERATURE & FLOW, NUMBERS, AND PROHIBITION*

602.1 Toilet facilities located on the premises of an aquatic facility shall be deemed conveniently located and accessible to staff; except, toilet facilities located outside of an aquatic facility do not meet this requirement.

602.2 All handwashing sinks in multiple-stall toilet rooms and single-stall toilet rooms shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100° F) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38°C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

602.3 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

602.4 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

602.5 Automatic handwashing sinks shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

602.6 Each showerhead shall have a water flow of not less than two gallons per minute (2 gpm) or seven point six one liter per minute (7.61 l/min).

602.7 The water temperature at each showerhead shall not exceed one-hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit (110° F) (forty-three degrees Celsius (43°C)) and shall not be less than ninety degrees Fahrenheit (90° F) (thirty-two degrees Celsius (32°C)).

602.8 Where there is heated water provided to showers, the shower water supply shall be controlled by an anti-scald device.

602.9 Bathers access to water heaters and thermostatically controlled mixing valves for showers is prohibited.

602.10 The number of toilets and urinals shall be based upon the anticipated maximum attendance of bathers and their gender as follows:

(a) A minimum of one (1) toilet facility (restroom), one (1) toilet stall, and one (1) urinal for the first one hundred (100) male bathers. A minimum of one (1) additional toilet facility, one (1) toilet stall, and one (1) urinal for each additional two (2) hundred male bathers or major fraction thereof; and

(b) A minimum of two (2) toilet facilities and two (2) toilet stalls for the first one hundred (100) female bathers. A minimum of one (1) additional toilet facility and one (1) toilet stall for each additional one hundred (100) female bathers or major fraction thereof.

602.11 All swimming pools and spas shall have at a minimum the following number of shower facilities:

(a) One (1) shower for female bathers;

(b) One (1) shower for male bathers; and

(c) A minimum of two (2) shower heads for each sex. A minimum of one (1) additional shower head shall be required for each sex, and for each additional fifty (50) male or female bathers.

602.12 There shall be not less than one (1) shower and not greater than half (½) of the total number of showers required by Subsection 602.11 shall be located on the deck or at the entrance of each pool.

602.13 Shower facilities and dressing rooms shall be provided at all swimming pools unless these facilities are provided in the building housing the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

602.14 Subsection 602.13 does not apply to semi-public swimming pools at hotels, motels, condominiums, and apartments where the:

(a) Pool’s use is restricted to residents and guests; and

(b) Farthest unit in the hotel, motel, condominium, or apartment is less than three hundred feet (300 ft.) from the pool area, as measured along walkways provided for access by residents and guests to the pool area.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 602
25-C DCMR § 603 TOILET FACILITIES ─ REQUIRED SIGNAGE

603.1 All single-stall toilet rooms shall display gender-neutral signs on the door that read “Restroom,” or have a universally recognized picture/symbol indicating that persons of any gender may use each restroom, in accordance with Section 301(c) of the Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1401.01 et seq. (2012 Repl.); and Section 802 of Chapter 8 (Compliance Rules and Regulations Regarding Gender Identity or Expression), Title 4 (Human Rights and Relations), of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR).

603.2 Aquatic facilities employing:

A staff of five (5) or less may provide a single toilet facility with a gender-neutral sign on the door in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977, as amended (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1401.01 et seq. (2012 Repl.)); or

(b) A staff of five (5) or more shall have multiple toilet facilities that are either:

(1) Single-stall toilet rooms with a gender-neutral sign on each door as specified in Subsection 3101.2 in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977, as amended (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1401.01 et seq. (2012 Repl.)); or

(2) Multiple-stall toilet rooms with gender-specific signs on the doors that read “Men” and “Women” or contain gender-specific, universally recognized pictorials of “Men” and “Women”.

603.3 Facilities which have multiple-stall toilet rooms with gender-specific signs on the doors shall allow individuals the right to use the gender-specific toilet room that is consistent with their gender identity or expression pursuant to 4 DCMR § 802.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 603
25-C DCMR § 604 SHOWER FACILITIES, DRESSING ROOMS ─ REASONABLE ACCOMODATIONS

604.1 All shower facilities shall be constructed and designed for individual privacy enclosures in accordance with Section 301(c) of the Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1401.01 et seq. (2012 Repl.); and Sections 804 and 805 of Chapter 8 (Compliance Rules and Regulations Regarding Gender Identity or Expression), Title 4 (Human Rights and Relations) DCMR.

604.2 Facilities shall make reasonable accommodations to allow an individual access to and the use of the facility that is consistent with that individual's gender identity or expression pursuant to 4 DCMR § 805.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 604
25-C DCMR § 605 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ PHYSICAL STRUCTURE, MATERIALS, CLEANABILITY, AND PROHIBITIONS

605.1 Toilet room floors shall be constructed of sealed concrete or other nonabsorbent materials with a smooth, slip-resistant surface to insure thorough cleaning.

605.2 The intersection of floors, walls, panels, stalls, or barriers shall be covered or sealed with waterproof materials.

605.3 Walls, panels, stalls, or barriers between toilet facilities, shower facilities, and dressing rooms, shall be made of durable materials not subject to water damage, and shall be designed so that a waterway is provided between the wall, panel, stall, barrier and the floor to permit thorough cleaning of the wall, panel, stall, barrier and floor areas with hoses and brooms.

605.4 Dressing room floors shall be made of the durable materials, not subject to water damage throughout.

605.5 Floor drains shall be provided, and floors shall be sloped not less than ¼ inch per foot toward the drains to ensure positive drainage.

605.6 Carpets, duckboards and footbaths are prohibited in toilet facilities, shower facilities, and dressing rooms.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 605
25-C DCMR § 606 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ TOILET FACILITIES (RESTROOMS), SHOWER FACILITIES, DRESSING ROOMS, HANDWASHING SINKS, ACCESS, AND PROHIBITIONS*

606.1 Each aquatic facility’s plumbing systems, including but not limited to toilet facilities (restrooms), shower facilities, and handwashing sinks shall be maintained in good repair at all times.

606.2 Each licensee shall provide sufficient toilet facilities (restrooms) that are:

(a) Kept in clean and sanitary conditions, free of solid waste, and litter; and

(b) Enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors or locking doors.

606.3 Toilet facility (restroom) doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

606.4 At no time shall consumers or staff enter toilet facilities (restrooms), shower facilities, or dressing rooms during routine cleaning or maintenance emergency.

606.5 Each handwashing sink and shower facility shall be conveniently equipped with soap dispensers with either liquid or powdered soap. The dispensing unit shall be made of metal or plastic, glass materials are prohibited.

606.6 Liquid or powder soap dispensers shall be provided in each toilet facility (restroom) and shower facility. Reusable cake soap is prohibited.

606.7 Mirrors shall be shatter resistant, where provided.

606.8 Baby-changing tables shall be provided in toilet facilities (restrooms) having two (2) or more toilet stalls.

606.9 A hose bibb with vacuum breaker shall be provided in or within fifty feet (50 ft.) of each toilet facility (restroom) to allow for ease of cleaning.

606.10 Toilet paper holder, a supply of toilet tissue, and a waste receptacle shall be provided in each stall of a multiple-stall toilet room, and in every single-stall toilet room. A covered waste receptacle for feminine hygienic products shall be provided in each toilet stall designated for female staff and/or bathers.

606.11 Feminine hygiene products shall be supplied in dispensing units installed in toilet facilities (restrooms) and shower areas designated for female staff and/or bathers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 606
25-C DCMR § 607 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ EQUIPMENT, CHEMICAL SUPPLIES, USE, LABELING, AND ACCESS*

607.1 Filter and pump rooms shall be kept clean and reasonably dry at all times.

607.2 Controls, valves, and gauges shall be accessible and shall not be blocked by extraneous materials. Valves and gauges shall function properly and be labeled in accordance with a posted backwash procedures chart.

607.3 Disinfectant and chemical feeders, capable of precisely introducing a sufficient quantity of an approved disinfecting agent to maintain the appropriate disinfectant residuals, shall be used at swimming pools and spa pools.

607.4 No person shall use chemical products or pesticides in a manner that is inconsistent with the product’s labeling, or that is in violation of any restrictions imposed on the product’s use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or the Department.

607.5 All chemical products used in swimming pools, spa pools, or sauna waters shall be used in accordance with:

(a) Sections 2208 and 2209 of the D.C. Pesticide Operations Regulations, effective March 20, 2015 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-401 et seq.);

(b) Manufacturer’s use directions included in labeling; and

(c) The conditions of certification, if certification is required for use of pest control materials.

607.6 The Department may approve disinfectant products other than chlorine or bromine that:

(a) Are labeled with clear directions for its use;

(b) Provide satisfactory residual effects that are easily measured;

(c) Are as effective as chlorine or bromine; and

(d) Do not impart toxic properties into the water that could create a danger to public health or that could create objectionable physiological and environmental effects.

607.7 Non-staff persons shall not have unsupervised access to machinery, electric panels, or chemicals used for the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 607
25-C DCMR § 608 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ CHEMICALS, HANDLING, STORAGE, AND SAFETY*

608.1 Chemicals shall be labeled and stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area under a roof and the area shall be inaccessible to the public.

608.2 Chemicals which emit corrosive fumes shall not be stored in the equipment room as specified in Subsection 503.18.

608.3 An aquatic facility’s use of compressed chlorine gas is prohibited in:

(a) Newly constructed facilities; and

(b) Existing facilities undergoing any renovations or retrofitting that require DCRA to issue a Building Permit.

608.4 The Department shall prohibit a facility from using chlorine gas if the Department determines through an inspection (preoperational, routine or complaint) that safety equipment and/ or training requirements cannot be met as required by the manufacturer, or as directed by the Department.

608.5 A licensee shall ensure chlorine gas equipment and containers are:

(a) Located out of direct sunlight;

(b) Chained or fastened in place to prevent tipping;

(c) Equipped with a shut-off wrench when in use; and

(d) The installed power exhaust system of such equipment operates properly and that a bottle of ammonia is available to test for leaks.

608.6 Empty chemical containers shall be stored and disposed of in such a manner that they are not accessible to the public.

608.7 Solutions and dry chemical spills, waste material, excess water, and debris shall be cleaned and removed promptly.

608.8 Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all potentially hazardous chemicals shall be provided to the aquatic facility’s pool and spa operator by the licensee or Pool Management Company.

608.9 All chemicals shall be handled, used, stored, and disposed of in accordance with the Safety Data Sheets, all applicable federal and District laws, and Sections 607.3, 607.4, 607.5, 607.6, 607.7, and Section 608.

608.10 All chemicals shall be stored in an area that has:

(a) Protection against weather, excess heat and moisture;

(b) A lockable door;

(c) Continuous ventilation sized at a minimum of two cubic feet per minute (2 cfm) per square foot of floor area and exhausts to the open air;

(d) A minimum of thirty (30) foot-candles (323 lux) of illumination to allow operators to read labels on containers throughout the chemical storage area and pump room;

(e) Adequate room to separate potentially reactive chemicals;

(f) Storage and or filter room door permanently labeled:

“DANGER – CHEMICAL STORAGE AREA – DO NOT ENTER”

(g) Safety Data Sheets posted; and

(h) Availability of personal safety gear for all chemicals on site as required by the Safety Data Sheets (SDS), including:

(1) Goggles for eye protection;

(2) Splash-guard aprons;

(3) Neoprene gloves or other gloves as specified in the Safety Data Sheets;

(4) Respirators that are required by the Safety Data Sheets; and

(5) Proper training for handling procedures, which are posted in the filter room and chemical storage areas.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 608
25-C DCMR § 609 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ EYE WASH STATIONS, INSTALLATION, ACCESSIBILITY, MAINTENANCE, AND TRAINING

609.1 Eye wash stations capable of delivering low-pressure tepid potable water to both eyes simultaneously for at least ten (10) minutes shall be installed in all chemical storage rooms and work areas with corrosive substances.

609.2 Eye wash stations shall:

(a) Be located within a ten (10) second walking distance in the installed area with a path that is free of obstructions, without having to pass through any doors;

(b) Use potable water and shall be equipped with stay-open valves that are easy to find and use and that remain open until manually closed;

(c) Well-lit, with signs that are easily identifiable and highly visible;

(d) Be directly plumbed; and

(e) Be inspected on a weekly basis and documented in a log book to ensure proper maintenance and working condition.

609.3 Licensees, pool and spa operators, lifeguards, and swimming instructors are required to know where the eye wash stations are located and are trained on how to use them in the event of an emergency.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 609
25-C DCMR § 610 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ EFFECTIVE BARRIERS, FENCES*

610.1 All outdoor public swimming pools and spa pools shall be surrounded by a minimum seventy-two inch (72 in.) high fence or other substantial barrier approved by the Department.

610.2 The fence shall be continuous around the perimeter of the pool area that is not otherwise blocked or obstructed by adjacent buildings or structures and shall adjoin with itself or abut to the adjacent members.

610.3 All aquatic venues shall be through self-closing, self-latching lockable gates in which the self-latching mechanisms shall be located not less than four and a half feet (4½ ft.) (1.4 m) above finished grade.

610.4 Door access points from public rooms such as lobbies or club houses need not be through gates.

610.5 Gates shall open outward away from the pool area.

610.6 A latched, lockable gate shall be placed in the fence within ten feet (10 ft.) of the equipment area for service access.

610.7 Screened pool enclosures shall be hardened on the bottom three feet (3 ft.)

610.8 Fencing consideration shall be given to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Publication No. 362 Guidelines.

610.9 Safety Covers shall meet strict performance standards as set by the American Society for Testing and Materials in ASTM Standard F1346-91, Standard Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for All Covers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.

610.10 All public and semi-public pools shall be installed or secured with pool safety covers as specified in Subsection 505.5, during the following occurrence:

(a) At the end of the outdoor swimming season;

(b) An in-door or out-door pool is taken out of service for more than thirty (30) days; or

(c) When a pool is experiencing a mechanical failure that prevents proper recirculation of water for more than seventy-two (72) hours.

610.11 All standing water shall be substantially drained from the cover with a pump within thirty (30) minutes after cessation of normal rainfall.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 610
25-C DCMR § 611 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ CONTROLLING PESTS*

611.1 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests;N

(b) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control, such as covered, tamper-resistant bait stations; and

(c) Eliminating harborage conditions.N

611.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed pest exterminator/contractor in accordance with Sections 2300 and 2400 of the D.C. Pesticide Operations Regulations, effective March 20, 2015 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-401 et seq.);

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 611
25-C DCMR § 612 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, & OTHER PESTS, AND ANIMAL PROHIBITION*

612.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition or the attraction of pests.

612.2 Animals shall not be allowed in aquatic facilities.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 612

25-C7 APPLICATION & LICENSING REQUIREMENTS, AND DEFINITIONS

25-C DCMR § 700 LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, & CERTIFICATIONS, AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS*

700.1 No person shall own, operate, or manage a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a valid license issued by the Mayor.

700.2 No person shall own, operate, or manage a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna with an expired or suspended license issue.

700.3 No person shall operate, or manage a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a current Certificate of Occupancy.

700.4 No person shall serve as a pool and spa operator without a current Pool and Spa Operator’s Registration Card issued by the Department in violation of Subsection 301.4.

700.5 No person shall serve as a lifeguard or swimming instructor without a current lifeguard or instructor certification issued by the American Red Cross or the YMCA, or other nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health in violation of Subsections 302.3 and 302.4.

700.6 No person shall serve as a lifeguard or swimming instructor without a current certification in First Aid, and in adult, child and infant Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) issued by the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, the National Safety Council, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, or other nationally recognized aquatic training organization adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health in violation of Subsection 302.4.

700.7 No person shall construct, install, renovate or retrofit any public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without first having received written approval from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and the Department of Health.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 700
25-C DCMR § 701 APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR FACILITY LICENSE ─ FORM OF SUBMISSION, NOTICE

701.1 An applicant shall submit a written application for a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna on a form provided by the Department.

701.2 An applicant shall submit an application to license a newly constructed or newly renovated swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna at least thirty (30) calendar days before the proposed opening date of the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

701.3 An applicant shall submit an application to renew a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the expiration date of the current license for an existing swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

701.4 A new application shall be filed with the Department within thirty (30) calendar days of any change in ownership or location. An applicant shall also notify the Department immediately if the applicant decides not to open, sell, or transfers the aquatic facility at the location identified in the application.

701.5 The Department shall accept completed plans and specifications approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs that meet the requirements of these regulations, and shall report its findings to the applicant within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the completed plans are received.

701.6 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply with these regulations or shall be returned as disapproved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 701
25-C DCMR § 702 APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR FACILITY LICENSE ─ CONTENT OF THE APPLICATION PACKET

702.1 The Department shall not process an application for a new license, license renewal, or change in ownership or location where administrative actions are pending against the licensee of a new or existing aquatic facility.

702.2 The Department shall accept completed plans and specifications approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs that meet the requirements of these regulations, and shall report its findings to the applicant or licensee within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

702.3 The Department application for a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna license shall include the name, address, and signature of the applicant, and the following information:

(a) Name, mailing address and telephone number of the licensee;

(b) Trade name, if applicable;

(c) Name and address of corporate officers, if applicable;

(d) Name and address of registered agent in the District, pursuant to the “District of Columbia Official Code Title 29 (Business Organizations) Enactment Act of 2009”, as amended, effective July 2, 2011 (D.C. Law 18-378; D.C. Official § 29-104.02 (2013 Repl.)), if applicable;

(e) Address of the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility and hours of operation;

(f) Type of aquatic facility; and

(g) Required application fee.

702.4 The following documents shall be submitted with the Department application for review:

(a) Current Certificate of Occupancy and required approvals issued by DCRA;

(b) A complete set of construction plans including all schedules, including floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics, as specified in Section705;

(c) Passing Pre-operational Inspection Report for compliance with these Regulations from the Department (no cost for the first Pre-operation Inspection Report);

(d) Copies of current registrations issued by the Department to the facility’s Pool and Spa Operators, including the individuals’ names, addresses, and cell phone numbers;

(e) Copies of current lifeguards and swimming instructors’ training certifications and First Aid certifications as specified in Section 302; and

(f) Copies of the facility’s D.C. licensed Pest Exterminator/Contractor as specified in Subsection 611.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 702
25-C DCMR § 703 APPLICATION PROCEDURES – DENIAL OF FACILITY LICENSE, NOTICE

703.1 If an application for a new license or renewal license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew an existing license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s or licensee’s right to a hearing as prescribed in Subsections 812.2 and 812.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 703
25-C DCMR § 704 ISSUANCE OF POOL AND SPA OPERATORS’ REGISTRATION CARDS

704.1 To qualify for a Pool and Spa Operator’s Registration Card an applicant shall:

(a) Complete a registration form provided by the Department of Health;

(b) Submit proof of certifications specified in Section 300; and

(c) Pay the required fee.

704.2 A Pool and Spa Operator’s Registration Card shall be valid for a three (3) year period, as specified in Subsection 301.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 704
25-C DCMR § 705 ISSUANCE OF FACILITY LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

705.1 The following plans and specifications for a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall be submitted to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs for review and approval as specified in this section and Subsection 706.1:

(a) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, construction materials, and finish schedules;

(b) Proposed equipment types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions, performance capacities, and installation specifications;

(c) A complete set of elevations and drawings for all custom fabricated equipment; and

(d) Other information that may be required before the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs may approve proposed plans for the construction, or renovation, or retrofits, including approvals by other District agencies, when necessary.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 705
25-C DCMR § 706 ISSUANCE OF NEW AND RENEWAL FACILITY LICENSES ─ EXISTING FACILITY, NEW CONSTRUCTION, RENOVATION, AND RETROFITTING OF SWIMMING POOLS, SPA POOLS, OR SAUNAS FACILITIES

706.1 An applicant or licensee shall submit properly prepared plans and specifications to the Department of Health for review and approval, as specified in Section 705, at least thirty (30) calendar days before:

(a) Opening a new or existing swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna;

(b) Building a new swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility;

(c) Renovating or retrofitting an existing swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna; or

(d) Changing the type of swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility’s operation.

706.2 The Department shall issue an aquatic facility license after an applicant has:

(a) Submitted a properly completed application provided by the Department;

(b) Paid all required fees;

(c) Obtained required approvals of documents specified in Sections 701.5, 701.6, 702.4, and 705; and

(d) Passed a preoperational inspection required in Subsection 710.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 706
25-C DCMR § 707 ISSUANCE OF FACILITY LICENSE ─ EXISTING FACILITIES, AND CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP, OR LOCATION

707.1 The Department shall renew a license to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and the Department has determined through an inspection that the facility is in compliance with this Regulation.

707.2 The Department shall issue a new license to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility that has changed ownership or changed location after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the facility is in compliance with this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 707
25-C DCMR § 708 REQUIRED POSTINGS

708.1 A public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

708.2 All licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, certifications, Department posted warnings, and current inspection results shall be conspicuously posted near a public entrance within the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility in accordance with Sections 201, 202, and 901.1(b).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 708
25-C DCMR § 709 LICENSES AND PERMITS NOT TRANSFERABLE

709.1 A facility license or permit to operate a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility shall not be transferred from one person to another person, from one facility to another facility, or from one location to another location even if owned, leased or operated by the same person.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 709
25-C DCMR § 710 ACCESS & INSPECTIONS ─ DEPARTMENT’S RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL, AND INSPECTORS’ COMPETENCY*

710.1 The Department shall determine an aquatic facility’s compliance with these regulations by conducting the inspections:

(a) Preoperational and follow-up inspections, as necessary to obtain a new license for indoor or seasonal outdoor swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas.

(b) For indoor swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas with existing valid licenses:

(1) Two (2) unannounced, routine inspections; and

(2) Follow-up inspections, as necessary.

(c) For seasonal outdoor swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas with existing valid licenses:

(1) Mandatory preopening inspections. Preopening inspections shall be requested in writing at least thirty (30) days prior to opening;

(2) One (1) unannounced, routine inspection; and

(3) Follow-up inspections, as necessary.

(d) Unannounced, complaint-generated inspections.

710.2 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with these regulations, the applicant, licensee, pool and spa operator, or lifeguard shall allow the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility.

710.3 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility, including, but not limited to its physical facilities, operations, equipment, records, chemicals and other operational supplies, at any time for one or more of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the swimming pool or spa facility is in compliance with these regulations;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the swimming pool or spa is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency;

(c) To investigate, examine and sample water quality and testing for biological contaminants, as specified in Subsection 403.1; or

(d) To obtain information, and examine and copy all records on the premises relating to reporting requirements as specified in Section 412.

710.4 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or licensee is required to allow access to the District agencies as specified in Subsections 710.2 and 710.3;

(b) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(c) The Department is making a final request for access.

710.5 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in Subsection 710.2, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in Subsection 710.4, and the applicant or licensee continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

710.6 If the Department is denied access to a swimming pool or spa facility for an authorized purpose, after complying with Subsection 710.5, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license issued to the swimming pool, spa pool or sauna in accordance with Subsection 807.1;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license issued to the swimming pool spa pool or sauna facility in accordance with Subsection 812; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court, to enforce these regulations.

710.7 Authorized representatives of the Department who are responsible for conducting inspections, plan reviews, and approvals of aquatic facilities shall be properly trained and certified as specified in Sections 300 and 302 of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 710
25-C DCMR § 711 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR

CORRECTIONS

711.1 The Department shall specify on its inspection report the time frame for correction of violations as specified in Sections 717 and 719.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 711
25-C DCMR § 712 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

712.1 At the conclusion of an inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of its completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee, and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the facility’s operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable regulatory provisions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 712
25-C DCMR § 713 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

713.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee’s or dealer’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 713
25-C DCMR § 714 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ PUBLIC INFORMATION, RECORDS RETENTION

714.1 The Department shall keep and maintain in-office as an active record a copy of each inspection report, complaint, inspector’s sample reports, license suspension, and other correspondence regarding a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility within the District for a period of one (1) year, and then as an inactive record for a period of two (2) additional years. Inactive records shall be destroyed in-house at the end of the two (2)-year inactive period.

714.2 In the case of an audit or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit or investigation has been completed.

714.3 The Department shall treat the inspection report as a public document and shall make it available for disclosure to a person who requests it as provided in the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-501 et seq. (2012 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 714
25-C DCMR § 715 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARDS ─ CEASING FACILITY OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING*

715.1 The Department shall summarily suspend operations, or, a licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department, whenever a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility is operating with any of the following conditions:

(a) Operating an aquatic facility without a clock in violation of Subsection 202.2;

(b) Operating an aquatic facility with improper water temperatures in violation of Subsections 202.1(b), and 402.5;

(c) Operating an aquatic facility with a total absence of or improper depth markings in violation of Subsections 201.1(e), 402.3, and 402.4;

(d) Operating an aquatic facility with an unapproved or contaminated water supply source for potable water use in violation of Sections 400 and 401;

(e) Operating an aquatic facility without proper water clarity from the pool deck in violation of Subsections 402.1, 402.2, and 410.1;

(f) Operating an aquatic facility with water quality pH level below 6.5 in violation of Subsection 404.2(a)(1);

(g) Operating an aquatic facility with water quality pH level above 8.0 in violation of Subsection 404.2(a)(2);

(h) The disinfectant level is below the minimum or above the maximum in violation of Subsection 404.2(b);

(i) Operating an aquatic facility with contaminated water not treated or improperly treated with disinfectants in violation of Sections 406 and 411;

(j) Failing to continuously operate the aquatic facility’s filtration equipment in violation of Sections 408.1, 408.3, 408.12, 409, and 410.3;

(k) Operating an aquatic facility that is not retrofitted with a properly sized and piped collector tank to eliminate direct suction through the main drain in violation of Subsection 408.5;

(l) Operating an aquatic facility with direct suction without installing a main drain cover that meets the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8-2007 standard for drain covers in violation of Subsection 408.6;

(m) Operating an aquatic facility with a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain) without being equipped with a device or system such as a safety vacuum release system to prevent entrapment in violation of Subsection 408.7;

(n) Operating an aquatic facility in violation of Subsection 408.11;

(o) Operating an aquatic facility with broken, unsecured, improperly secured, damaged or missing main drain grate or any submerged suction outlet grate in violation of Subsections 408.16 and 408.18;

(p) Operating an aquatic facility in violation of Sections 500, 501, 502, 503, and 504;

(q) Operating an aquatic facility without an emergency lighting source, or failing to maintain an emergency lighting source in violation of Subsection 504.5;

(r) Operating an aquatic facility without required first aid and safety equipment on deck as specified in Section 505;

(s) Operating an aquatic facility with improper plumbing cross-connections between the drinking water supply and aquatic facility water or between sewage system and the aquatic facility including filter backwash facilities in violation of Subsection 601.1;

(t) Operating an aquatic facility without hot water in violation of Subsections 602.2 and 602.7;

(u) Failing to properly handle, use, label, store, or ventilate chemicals in an aquatic facility in violation of Sections 607 or 608;

(v) Using unapproved chemicals or applying chemicals by unapproved methods to an aquatic facility’s water in violation of Subsection 607.3;

(w) Failing to prevent unauthorized access to an aquatic facility’s machinery, electric panels, or chemicals used for the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna in violation of Subsection 607.7;

(x) Operating an aquatic facility without the required personal protective equipment (ppe) to handle chemicals in violation of Subsection 608.10(h);

(y) Operating an aquatic facility with safety covers that do not meet strict performance standards as set by the American Society for Testing and Materials in ASTM Standard F1346-91, Standard Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for All Covers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs in violation of Subsection 610.10; or

(z) Operating an aquatic facility with safety covers that are improperly installed, or secured with continuous union to the deck in violation of Subsection 505.5.

715.2 In addition to the imminent health hazards identified in Subsection 715.1, the Department shall summarily suspend operations if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in Section 710, the existence of the following conditions, including but not limited to:

(a) Operating an aquatic facility with a bather load in violation of Subsections 201.1(b), 202.1(d), and 304.1;

(b) Serving as a lifeguard or swimming instructor without a current lifeguard or instructor certification issued by the American Red Cross, the YMCA, or other nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health in violation of Subsections 302.3 and 302.4;

(c) Serving as a lifeguard or swimming instructor without a current certification in First Aid, and in adult, child and infant Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) issued by the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, the National Safety Council, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, or other nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the DC Department of Health in violation of Subsections 302.3 and 302.4;

(d) Operating a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without the required number of lifeguards in violation of Section 304;

(e) Operating an aquatic facility without an approved Child Safety Plan, if applicable, or failing to provide copies of the facility’s Child Safety Plan to the Department for review and approval in violation of Section 305;

(f) Operating an aquatic facility in violation of a Notice of Closure/Summary Suspension, Revocation, Suspension, warnings, or other directives issued by the Department as specified in Sections 408.10, 607.4, 716, 801, 807, 811, and 812;

(g) Using, selling, moving, or destroying equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to a Condemnation Order by the Department in violation of Subsection 804.1;

(h) Operating an aquatic facility without a Water Quality Test Kit in violation of Section 405;

(i) Operating an aquatic facility without maintaining daily water quality and safety logs in violation of Section 412;

(j) Failing to report a death, serious injury, or injury that requires resuscitation or admission to a hospital occurring at a swimming pool, spa pool, sauna to the Department within twenty-four hours (24 hrs.) of the incident in violation of Subsection 413.1;

(k) Failing to report a complaint of illness attributed by a bather to use of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna to the Department within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident in violation of Subsection 413.2;

(l) Owning, operating, or managing a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a valid license issued by the Department in violation of Subsection 700.1;

(m) Failing to maintain plumbing systems, including but not limited to toilet facilities (restrooms), shower facilities, and handwashing sinks in good repair in violation of Subsection 606.1;

(n) Using compressed chlorine gas or chlorine gas in violation of Subsections 608.3 and 608.4;

(o) Owning, operating, or managing a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without required barriers and/or fencing; or, with barriers and/or fencing not approved by the Department in violation of Section 610;

(p) Owning, operating, or managing a swimming pool without a pool safety cover in violation of Subsection 610.10;

(q) Owning, operating, or managing a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna with an expired or suspended license issue in violation of Subsection 700.2;

(r) Operating, or managing a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a valid Certificate of Occupancy in violation of Subsection 700.3;

(s) Serving as a pool and spa operator without a current Pool and Spa Operator’s Registration Card issued by the Department in violation of Subsection 700.4;

(t) Constructing, installing, renovating or retrofitting, or operating any public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without first having received written approved from the Department of Health and the District Government in violation of Sections 705 and 706;

(u) Failing to allow the Department access to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna in violation of Section 710;

(v) Failing to post licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, certifications, and current inspection reports in violation of Subsection 708.2;

(w) Failing to post required signs in violation of Sections 201 and 202;

(x) Removing required signs or Department posted warnings or closures in violation of Sections 715.3, 720.3, 805.1, and 901.1(b); or

(y) Operating an aquatic facility with conditions dangerous to the health, safety, or welfare of bathers or patrons at the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna, including but not limited to:

(1) Accidents involving bodily fluids in violation of Subsection 412.7;

(2) Failing to keep swimming pool, spa pool or sauna, or pool deck free of sediment, floating debris, visible dirt and algae in violation of Subsection 504.6;

(3) Violations of recent editions of the District of Columbia’s Construction Codes Supplements, as specified in Subsection 102.1(l) and Chapter 6;

(4) A drowning hazard;

(5) Broken glass, sharp edged or broken tile, metal, or other abrasion hazards in the water or deck area;

(6) Operating an aquatic facility with a fire;

(7) Operating an aquatic facility with a flood;

(8) Operating an aquatic facility with an interruption of municipal water service;

(9) Operating an aquatic facility with a sewage backup;

(10) Operating an aquatic facility with an onset of a confirmed waterborne illness;

(11) An unapproved modification to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna determined by the Department to be unsanitary or dangerous to the public health, safety, or welfare;

(12) Operating an aquatic facility with unprotected, overhead electrical wires within twenty (20) feet horizontally of the water of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna;

(13) Operating an aquatic facility without a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) within twenty (20) feet of the inside wall of the aquatic facility designed to shout off electric power to protect people against electric shock from an electrical system or outlet; or

(14) Operating an aquatic facility with a recirculation system or automatic disinfectant chemical feeding equipment is missing, malfunctioning, or not functioning.

715.3 When any of the conditions listed in Subsections 715.1 or 715.2 of these regulations exist, the Department shall attach a sign that states:

AQUATIC FACILITY CLOSED. This facility is closed until further notice by the Department of Health for imminent health hazard(s) in violation of Section 715 of the District’s Aquatic Facilities Regulations (Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, and Saunas in Subtitle C, Title 25 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 715
25-C DCMR § 716 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ RESUMPTION OF FACILITY OPERATIONS*

716.1 If the facility is closed as specified in Section 715, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department as specified in Section 811 before resuming operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 716
25-C DCMR § 717 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

717.1 A licensee shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation of these regulations immediately, except as specified in Subsection 717.2.

717.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed five (5) calendar days after the inspection, for the licensee to correct a critical violation of this Regulation.

717.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee to summary suspension of license pursuant to Section 807, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to Section 812, and the issuance of Notice of Infractions pursuant to Section 1000, and civil penalties pursuant to Section 1001.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 717
25-C DCMR § 718 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

718.1 After observing at the time of inspection a correction of a critical violation, the Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on its inspection report.

718.2 After receiving notification that the licensee has corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in its records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 718
25-C DCMR § 719 NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

719.1 The licensee shall correct noncritical violations by a date and time agreed to or specified by the Department but no later than fourteen (14) calendar days after the inspection, except as specified in Subsection 719.2.

719.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in Subsection 719.1 if the licensee submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance.

719.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to Section 812, and the issuance of Notice of Infractions pursuant to Section 1000, and civil penalties pursuant to Section 1001.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 719
25-C DCMR § 720 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

720.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to Section 807 or suspended or revoked pursuant to Section 812 because of violations of this Regulation, the licensee shall submit to the Department a written request for reinspection.

720.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the public swimming or spa facility within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

720.3 A swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility shall not resume operations, use of equipment, chemicals or supplies, or remove from public view any Department posted closures, warnings, inspection reports, or orders until the Department has reinspected the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility and certified that it is in compliance with these Regulations, as specified in Sections 716.1, 720.1, 720.2, 804, and 805.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 720

25-C8 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AND ORDERS

25-C DCMR § 800 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ REMEDIES

800.1 The Department may use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter simultaneously to address a violation of this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 800
25-C DCMR § 801 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

801.1 A duly authorized agent of the Department may condemn and cause to be removed any equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies found in a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility the use of which does not comply with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 801
25-C DCMR § 802 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

802.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, or other operational supplies under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of these regulations and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identifying information, and location;

(d) State that the Department of Health may order the destruction, replacement or removal of the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies; and

(e) That the licensee may request an informal conference in accordance with Subsection 803.2. A request for an informal conference does not stay the Department's imposition of the condemnation order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 802
25-C DCMR § 803 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

803.1 The Department of Health shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that do not meet the requirements of this Regulation.

803.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that are the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in Section 802 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 803
25-C DCMR § 804 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

804.1 Equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that are subject to a condemnation order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in Subsection 804.2.

804.2 The Department may allow the licensee to store the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies in an area of the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna that does not restrict the facility’s operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 804
25-C DCMR § 805 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

805.1 No person shall remove Department posted tags, labels, or other appropriate markings except under the direction of the Department as specified in Subsection 805.2.

805.2 The Department of Health shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee notifies the Department that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies have been modified to meet NSF/ANSI or ASME/ANSI standards and the requirements of this Regulation, and the Department has conducted a re-inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 805
25-C DCMR § 806 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

806.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee without prior warning, or informal conference on the condemnation order.

806.2 A condemnation order shall be reviewed by a Department program manager or supervisor prior to it being issued to an operator. A request by email, certified mail, or fax may be submitted by the licensee requesting an informal conference with the Department within fifteen (15) business days of receiving the condemnation order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 806
25-C DCMR § 807 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

807.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility, when the Department is denied access to a facility in violation of Section 710, or when the Department determines through an inspection, examination of records, or other means as specified in the Regulations that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 807
25-C DCMR § 808 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

808.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna facility is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Regulation that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department’s representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) State that the licensee may request an informal conference in accordance with Subsection 809.2. A request for an informal conference does not stay the Department's imposition of the condemnation order;

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 808
25-C DCMR § 809 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

809.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in Section 807 by providing written notice as specified in Section 808 of the summary suspension to the licensee, without prior warning or informal conference.

809.2 A Notice of Summary Suspension shall be reviewed by a Department program manager or supervisor prior to being issued to a licensee. A request by email, certified mail, or fax may be submitted by a licensee requesting an informal conference with the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 809
25-C DCMR § 810 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

810.1 After receiving a request by email, certified mail, or fax from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the aquatic facility for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the licensee’s request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 810
25-C DCMR § 811 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

811.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through reinspection or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been corrected, as specified in Section 716 and 720.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 811
25-C DCMR § 812 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, OR DENIAL OF APPLICATION OR RENEWAL OF LICENSE

812.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of these regulations shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued to an aquatic facility pursuant to the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2012 Repl.)). The Department may revoke a license of a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna where there is a record of subsequent violations and a history of summary suspensions within a three (3) year period.

812.2 Before a license is revoked, or suspended, a licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

812.3 Before the Department denies an application for license, or denies the renewal of a license as specified in Section 703, an applicant or licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 812

25-C9 SERVICE OF PROCESS

25-C DCMR § 900 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, PROPER METHODS

900.1 A notice issued in accordance with these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) A Department representative, a law enforcement officer, or a person authorized to serve a civil process, personally services the notice to the licensee, or the person operating a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a license;

(b) The Department sends the notice to the last known address of the licensee or person operating a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a license, in accordance with Section 205 of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05 (2012 Repl.)), or by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) In accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in Section 2811, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 900
25-C DCMR § 901 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ DEPARTMENT ISSUED NOTICES OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION, NOTICES OF INFRACTION, AND OTHER DIRECTIVES

901.1 Notices of Summary Suspension, Notices of Infraction, and other directives issued by the Department shall be:

(a) Served as specified in Subsection 900.1; or

(b) Posted by the Department at a public entrance to the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 901
25-C DCMR § 902 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, EFFECTIVENESS

902.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt as specified in Subsection 901.1(a), or if service is made as specified in Subsection 901.1(b) at the time of the notice is posted.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 902
25-C DCMR § 903 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

903.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee or person operating a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna without a license or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 903

25-C10 ADMINISTRATIVE AND CIVIL PENALTIES, AND JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-C DCMR § 1000 NOTICE OF INFRACTIONS

1000.1 The Department may impose civil infraction fines penalties for violations of any provision of these regulations pursuant to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, (Civil Infraction Act), effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1801 et seq. (2012 Repl.)).

1000.2 A licensee who receives a Notice of Infraction as specified in Subsection 900.1(c), may pay the assessed fine or appear before the Office of Administrative Hearings as directed on the reverse side of the Notice of Infraction in accordance with the “Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure” in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 1000
25-C DCMR § 1001 CIVIL FINES AND PENALTIES

1001.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any aquatic facility owner, or licensee for violation of any provision of this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 1001
25-C DCMR § 1002 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

1002.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2012 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 1002

25-C64 [REPEALED]

25-C DCMR § 6400 INTENT - SAFETY

6400.1 The purpose of these regulations is to prevent disease, sanitary nuisances, and accidents that threaten or impair the public's health and safety, and to prevent any modifications that result in the operation of a pool in a manner unsanitary or dangerous to public health or safety.

6400.2 These regulations prescribe minimum design, construction, and operation requirements that are intended to protect the health and safety of the public in swimming pools and spas.

6400.3 The Department shall regulate certain aspects of the design, equipment, operation, installation, new construction and rehabilitation of swimming pools and spas. Where adequate standards do not exist and these regulations do not provide sufficient guidance for consideration of innovations in design, construction and operation of proposed swimming pools and spas, the Department will establish requirements necessary to protect the health and safety of pool patrons.

6400.4 These regulations establish definitions, set quality control standards for personnel, health, sanitary operations, equipment and facilities; provide for the issuance of licenses and certifications and inspections, and provide for enforcement through suspension and revocation of licenses and certifications, condemnation of equipment, and fines and penalties.

6400.5 All swimming pools and spas, existing and newly constructed, shall meet safety standards pursuant to The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act of 2007, approved December 19, 2007 (Pub.L.110-140).

6400.6 These regulations shall not apply to:

(a) A swimming pool or spa that is less than twenty-four inches (24") or six hundred and ten millimeters (610 mm) deep or that has a surface area less than two hundred fifty (250) square feet (23.25m2), except when permanently equipped with a water-recirculating system or constructed with structural materials;

(b) A swimming pool or spa which is completely emptied of water, disinfected, and refilled with water between each use and that is intended for use or used by a single individual during each use; or

(c) A spa that is operated for medical treatment or physical therapy under the direction and control of medical personnel licensed pursuant to section 501 of the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995, (D.C. Law 10-247; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01) (2008 Supp.).

6400.7 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance serves as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

6400.8 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to serve as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A part that is denoted in these regulations without an asterisk (*) after the headnote is a noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a noncritical item with a superscripted letter "N" following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6401 COMPLIANCE WITH DISTRICT LAWS, FEDERAL LAWS, AND INDUSTRY STANDARDS/GUIDELINES

6401.1 The most recent versions of the following federal laws and regulations or any successor standards are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act of 2007, approved December 19, 2007 (Pub.L.110-140);

(b) 40 C.F.R. Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations;

(c) National Sanitation Foundation NSF-ANSI Standard 60, 2005 Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals - Health Effects;

(d) National Sanitation Foundation NSF/ANSI Standard 50-2007 Circulation System Components and Related Materials for Swimming Pool, Spas/Hot Tubs, dated April 2007, approved substitute filters;

(e) American National Standard ASME A112.19.8 - 2007 Suction Fittings For Use in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; performance standard;

(f) ASME/ANSI standard A 112.19.17 Safety Standard Vacuum Release System or ASTM standard F2387;

(g) ANSI /APSP-7 American National Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Catch Basins;

(h) U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Publication No. 362 Guidelines, entitled "Safety Barrier Guidelines for Home Pools; "Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards: Making Pools and Spas Safer"; and any other pool safety guidelines established by the Commission;

(i) National Collegiate Athletic Association, 2003;

(j) Federation Internationale de Natation Amateur (FINA), 2002-2005 Handbook;

(k) 1998-1999 Official Rules of Diving & Regulation of Regulation of United States Diving Inc.;

(l) 2003 United States Swimming Rules and Regulations; and

(m) National Federation of State High School Associations, 2002-2003.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6402 GENERAL PROVISIONS - SWIMMING POOL SUPERVISION, POSTINGS*

6402.1 The licensee may employ the services of a swimming pool or spa management company to fulfill the requirements of these regulations.

6402.2 All licensees, managers, swimming pool and spa operators, lifeguards or swimming instructors in charge of, or working at, public swimming pools shall be responsible for the supervision and safety of the pool.

6402.3 The licensee or manager shall ensure that swimming pool and spa operators, lifeguards or swimming instructors possess current certifications as specified in sections 6405 and 6407 of these regulations, and that swimming pool and spa operators possess valid permits issued by the Mayor as required in section 6445.2 of these regulations.

6402.4 A licensee or manager may permit a person desiring to function as the swimming pool and spa operator and the lifeguard to work in both capacities if bathers' safety and the facility's operational requirements are not adversely affected.

6402.5 A licensee or manager shall ensure that an individual functioning as both a lifeguard and swimming pool and spa operator as specified in section 6402.4 of these regulations is in compliance with the requirements identified in sections 6405 and 6407 of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6403 GENERAL PROVISIONS - SWIMMING POOL ADMISSION RULES, SIGNS, & POSTINGS*

6403.1 Rules for the admission of bathers to the swimming pool shall be enforced and shall have a heading or caption that reads "Pool Rules" printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3") or larger on a backing of durable construction and conspicuously posted in an appropriate location for all bathers to see before entering the swimming pool. The sign shall state the following:

(a) No food, drink, glass or animals in the pool area;

(b) Bathing load: persons;

(c) Pool hours: a.m. to p.m.;

(d) Shower before entering pool area;

(e) Pools of two hundred square feet (200 sq. ft.) in area or greater without an approved diving well configuration shall have "NO DIVING", in four inch (4 in.) letters included with the above listed pool rules;

(f) Do not swallow the pool water; and

(g) The Certified Swimming Pool and Spa Operator at this facility is District Permit number .

6403.2 Pool closed signs shall be provided and posted at bather entrances whenever a swimming pool's operating license is summarily suspended for water quality or safety violations.

6403.3 All swimming pools shall post a sign for all bathers to see before entering the swimming pool area directing bathers to shower before entering the pool.

6403.4 In addition to section 6403.1, licensees, managers, swimming pool and spa operators, lifeguards, and swimming instructors shall enforce the following rules including but not limited to:

(a) Restricting the introduction of dirt, excreta, and other extraneous matter into the water by bathers;

(b) Excluding persons from the swimming pool who show apparent signs of infection or other evidence of high contamination risk, such as open cuts, wounds, rashes, or blisters, except when certified by a physician not to have a disease in a communicable stage;

(c) Restricting the importation of dangerous objects and materials into the swimming pool area;

(d) Prohibiting unsafe acts, both in and out of the water;

(e) Prohibiting the use of topical agents including oils, body lotions, and minerals prior to entering, or while in the water;

(f) Prohibiting the consumption of food or beverages in areas other than the specifically designated eating areas that are separated from the swimming pool;

(g) Ensuring that small children and disabled or infirmed individuals in the water are:

(1) Water-safe, as defined in these regulations;

(2) In the proper swimming pool area based on their observed swimming skills; or

(3) Properly supervised by a competent water-safe person in addition to the lifeguard.

(h) Requiring incontinent individuals to wear protective clothing and small children wearing diapers also wear snuggly fitting rubber pants; and

(i) Requiring each bather to shower immediately prior to entering the swimming pool and spa areas.

6403.5 In addition to section 6403.1, when no lifeguard is on duty, a permanently mounted sign shall be printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3") or larger conspicuously posted warning bathers of the following:

"WARNING - NO LIFEGUARD IS ON DUTY. SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK."

"NO CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF FIFTEEN (15) SHALL USE THE SWIMMING POOL WITHOUT ADULT SUPERVISION."

"ADULTS SHOULD NOT SWIM ALONE."

6403.6 Wading pools that do not have a lifeguard inside the wading pool enclosure shall have a permanently mounted sign printed legibly with letters that are three inches (3") or larger conspicuously posted which states:

"WARNING - NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY."

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6404 GENERAL PROVISIONS - SPA POOL ADMISSION RULES, SIGNS, & POSTINGS*

6404.1 Rules for the admission to the spa shall be enforced and shall have a heading or caption that reads "Spa Rules" printed legibly with letters that are one inch (1") or larger conspicuously posted adjacent to the entrance to each spa except where notice is provided to bathers pursuant to sections 6403.1, 6403.5 and 6403.6, and enforced. The sign shall, at a minimum:

(a) Prohibit use while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medicines, or anything else that may impair the senses or cause drowsiness;

(b) Prohibit the use of electrical appliances or devices within five feet (5 ft.) of the spa;

(c) Prohibit unsupervised use by children under the age of fifteen (15);

(d) Prohibit the use of topical agents including, oils, body lotions, and minerals prior to entering, or while in the water;

(e) Prohibit the consumption of food or beverages in areas other than specifically designated eating areas that are separated from the spa;

(f) Exclude persons from the spa pool who show apparent signs of infection or other evidence of high contamination risk, such as open cuts, wounds, rashes, or blisters, except when certified by a physician not to have a disease in a communicable stage;

(g) Warn that elderly persons and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure should not use the spa;

(h) Warn that bathers should observe a reasonable period of exposure in the spa of ten (10) minutes), shower upon exiting the spa, and then cool down before returning to the spa for another brief exposure period;

(i) Warn that pregnant women should not use the spa without consulting their physician;

(j) Warn that long exposure may result in nausea, dizziness or fainting, and that a shorter exposure period is recommended when a bather is pregnant;

(k) Warn bathers to always exit and enter slowly and cautiously;

(l) Require each bather to shower prior to entering the spa;

(m) Inform bathers that the maximum temperature allowed by the Department of Health for any spa is one hundred and four degrees Fahrenheit (104°F) (forty degrees Centigrade (40°C)). The actual temperature of this spa at o'clock today is °F ( °C); and

(n) Provide a Certified Swimming Pool and Spa Operator Sign. A sign shall be posted or language shall be added to the "Spa Pool Admission Rules, Sign" which reads, "The Certified Swimming Pool and Spa Operator at this facility is District Permit number .

6404.2 In lieu of the signs required in section 6404.1, spa management may provide bathers with written notification of the rules for admission and require bathers to verify, in writing, that they have read and understand the rules.

6404.3 A clock or other time-keeping device shall be provided which is visible to bathers using the spa.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6405 SWIMMING POOL AND SPA OPERATOR - CERTIFICATIONS AND TRAINING*

6405.1 An individual who services a public swimming pool or spa by maintaining the cleanliness, water quality and chemical balance of public pools shall be certified.

6405.2 Individuals desiring to become certified swimming pool and spa operators shall attend a training course of national recognition that is approved by the Department of Health of at least 16 hours in length and pass a test that is offered as part of the training program.

6405.3 Course training shall include the following study topics for the required hours indicated:

(a) Swimming pool calculations - one (1) hour of course training;

(b) Filter type and filtration circulation - four (4) hours of course training;

(c) Water chemistry - balancing & testing - 2 hours of course training;

(d) Spas and warm water pools - one (1) hour of course training;

(e) Pool and spa maintenance - five (5) hours of course training;

(f) Operational and safety requirements - two (2) hours of course training; and

(g) District Swimming Pools and Spas Regulation, Chapter 64, Title 22 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations - one (1) hour of course training.

6405.4 A certified swimming pool and spa operator shall demonstrate knowledge of public pools, which includes but is not limited to:

(a) Pool cleaning;

(b) General pool maintenance;

(c) Make-up water supply; and

(d) Bacteriological, chemical, and physical quality of water and water purification, testing, treatment, and disinfection procedures.

6405.5 Certification does not imply any licensure as a contractor regulated by the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs.

6405.6 A certified swimming pool and spa operator may not affect the structural integrity of the pool or equipment, and shall not delegate work to others, including employees, that are not themselves certified under these regulations.

6405.7 The Department of Health shall deem certified any individual who has been proven certified by a course of national recognition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6406 SWIMMING POOL AND SPA OPERATORS - DUTIES, KNOWLEDGE*

6406.1 A certified pool or spa operator shall be on duty during all hours the swimming pool or spa is open to the public.

6406.2 Swimming pool and spa operators shall be knowledgeable in the areas specified in section 6405.

6406.3 All swimming pool and spa operators shall obtain a District-issued permit, issued by the Department, which shall be renewed every three (3) years.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6407 LIFEGUARDS, SWIMMING INSTRUCTORS - CERTIFICATIONS*

6407.1 Lifeguards and swimming instructors shall be certified in lifeguarding or swimming instruction by:

(a) The American Red Cross; or

(b) The YMCA or other equivalent nationally recognized aquatic training organization that meets the established standards, objectives and standards of care provided in the American Red Cross or YMCA programs.

6407.2 Lifeguards and swimming instructors shall possess current certificates in first aid and in adult, child and infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation through the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, the National Safety Council, or the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

6407.3 Swimming coaches are exempted from the swimming instructor certification requirement when training advanced level swimmers for competition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6408 LIFEGUARDS - DUTIES*

6408.1 Lifeguards shall be properly attired and readily identifiable as members of the lifeguard staff.

6408.2 Lifeguards shall be on the deck and shall observe the pool whenever bathers are in the water.

6408.3 Lifeguards shall not leave their post for any reason without ensuring that all bathers are out of the water and that they will not return to the water during the lifeguard's absence.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6409 LIFEGUARD REQUIREMENTS - SWIMMING POOL, RESTRICTED USE

6409.1 Except as provided in sections 6409.2 and 6411, a lifeguard shall not be required for a swimming pool that is:

(a) Open for use only to persons who hold membership or other paid association in the facility where the pool is located;

(b) Open for use only to persons who are permanent or temporary residents or guests of residents at the facility where the pool is located;

(c) Open for use to persons who are lodging for a fee at the facility where the pool is located; or

(d) A spa.

6409.2 The exemptions identified in section 6409.1 shall not apply if a swimming pool has:

(a) A diving board;

(b) A depth of at least six feet (6 ft.) (1,830 mm), or

(c) An expected bather population of fifty percent (50%) or more children under the age of fifteen (15).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6410 LIFEGUARD REQUIREMENTS - BATHER LOAD, POOL SIZE, OR VISUAL OBSTRUCTIONS

6410.1 There shall be a minimum of one (1) lifeguard on duty capable of observing the swimming pool for every fifty (50) bathers permitted in the water.

6410.2 Pool management shall increase the number of lifeguards based on the number of bathers in the swimming pool.

6410.3 The Department of Health may require a lifeguard to be on duty if none exists, or require additional lifeguards to be on the deck, or restrict swimming to one (1) portion of any swimming pool because of the following:

(a) The number of lifeguards is inadequate to safely guard the swimming pool due to the number of bathers using the swimming pool;

(b) The shape, dimension, and layout of the swimming pool and filter room locations;

(c) The existence of an obstruction to vision; or

(d) The capability of the bathers using the swimming pool.

6410.4 Swimming pools over eighteen hundred square feet (1800 sq. ft.) of water surface area shall have at least one (1) elevated lifeguard chair for each three thousand square feet (3000 sq. ft.) of swimming pool surface or fraction thereof. A deck-level lifeguard may be used in a designated area on the deck adjacent to shallow water instead of an elevated lifeguard chair.

6410.5 Swimming pools with a width of forty-five feet (45 ft.) or more shall have more than one (1) lifeguard chair located on each side of the swimming pool.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6411 ADDITIONAL LIFEGUARD REQUIREMENTS - CHILD SAFETY PLAN

6411.1 A swimming pool or spa that does not have a lifeguard on duty shall follow a Child Safety Plan that has been reviewed and approved by the Department during a preoperational inspection.

6411.2 The Child Safety Plan shall contain the following information:

(a) The name, address and telephone number of the facility;

(b) The name, address and telephone number of the owner and manager of the facility;

(c) The facility's swimming season (the months of the year that the pool is open);

(d) The expected number of bathers when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(e) The expected number of bathers who are over the age of fifteen (15) when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(f) The percentage of the expected bathers who are under the age of fifteen (15) when the spa is open (daily average for the operating months);

(g) Specific measures that the facility will undertake (in addition to the posting of signs) to ensure that children under the age of fifteen (15) do not use the spa without adult supervision; and

(h) Specific measures that the facility will undertake to monitor the spa when the spa is open.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6412 WATER QUALITY - APPROVED SOURCE*

6412.1 The only approved system for pool water shall be potable water from the District of Columbia public water system.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6413 WATER QUALITY - STANDARDS*

6413.1 Potable water shall be used to supply water to all pools and shall meet the requirements of the applicable provisions of 40 C.F.R. Part 141 - National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and the District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6414 WATER QUALITY - STANDARDS, CLARITY, AND TEMPERATURE*

6414.1 The pool water shall be 0.5 or less NTU and the main drain grate shall be readily visible from the pool deck.

6414.2 Spa pools and swimming pools with heaters shall have a maximum water temperature of one hundred and four degrees Fahrenheit (104°F) (forty degrees Centigrade (40°C)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6415 WATER QUALITY - STANDARDS, BACTERIOLOGICAL*

6415.1 The pool water shall be free of coliform bacteria contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6416 WATER QUALITY - STANDARDS, CHEMICAL QUALITY*

6416.1 The Department may collect water samples and examine them as necessary to determine compliance with these regulations.

6416.2 Chemicals used in controlling the quality of the pool water shall be tested and approved using the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF-ANSI) Standard 60, 2005, which is incorporated by reference into these rules and shall be compatible with other accepted chemicals used in pools. The following parameters shall be adhered to for pool water treatment:

(a) Water pH - 7.2 to 7.8;

(b) Disinfection - Free chlorine residual shall be 1 milligram per liter (mg/L) to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools and 2 mg/L to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in all other type pools such as spa-type pools and interactive water fountains; bromine residual shall be 1.5 mg/L to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in conventional swimming pools and 3 mg/L to 10 mg/L, inclusive, in all other type pools. Except that, the following maximum disinfectant levels shall apply to indoor conventional swimming pools: 5 mg/L free chlorine or 6 mg/L bromine;

(c) When oxidation - reduction potential controllers are required, the water potential shall be kept between 700 and 850 millivolts. Use of these units does not negate the manual daily testing requirement of section 6422;

(d) Cyanuric acid - 40 mg/L maximum in pools and in spa pools; and

(e) Quaternary ammonium - 5 mg/L maximum.

6416.3 Irrigation water that wets the deck area of a pool and the water in the pool shall be potable water. Non-potable irrigation water shall not be applied within ten (10) feet of the wet deck area.

6416.4 Manual addition of chemicals will be allowed under special conditions and requires the pool to be closed prior to addition and for at least one (1) hour after addition, or a longer period as necessary, for sufficient and safe distribution of the chemical. After treatment for breakpoint chlorination and algae prevention, use of the pool can be resumed when the free chlorine levels drop to 10 mg/L.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6417 WATER QUALITY - TEST KITS

6417.1 Test kits are required to be on the premises of all swimming pools and spas to determine free active chlorine and total chlorine using N, N-Diethyl-p-Phenylenediamie (DPD), or bromine level, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and pH.

6417.2 The following test kits shall be provided if the corresponding chemicals are used:

(a) Cyanuric acid;

(b) Sodium chloride;

(c) Quaternary ammonium;

(d) Ozone; and

(e) Copper.

6417.3 A test kit may be used for multiple pools, provided the pools have common ownership and they are located on contiguous property.

6417.4 The test kit shall be capable of measuring the level of disinfectant in the normal operating range.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6418 WATER QUALITY - CONTAMINATION

6418.1 A swimming pool or spa shall be deemed contaminated when one (1) of the following conditions exists:

(a) More than one (1) ten milliliter (10 ml) portion of a sample shows a positive test for coliform organisms when multitube fermentation technique is used; or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used; or

(b) Two (2) consecutive samples show a positive test for coliform organisms in any ten milliliter (10 ml) portion of a sample when the multitube fermentation technique is used or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used; or

(c) Two (2) of any ten (10) consecutive samples show a positive test for coliform organisms in any of the ten milliliter (10 ml) portions of a sample when the multitube fermentation technique is used or more than one (1) coliform per fifty milliliters (50 ml) when the membrane filter test is used.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6419 RECIRCULATION AND TREATMENT SYSTEM - CROSS-CONNECTION PREVENTION

6419.1 An atmospheric break or approved back flow prevention device shall be provided in each pool water supply line that is connected to a public water supply.

6419.2 Vacuum breakers shall be installed on all hose bibbs.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6420 RECIRCULATION AND TREATMENT SYSTEM

6420.1 The pool recirculation system shall be operated at all times when the pool is open for use. The recirculation system may be shut off three (3) hours after the pool closes and shall be turned back on three (3) hours before opening the pool. Shut down time shall be controlled by a time clock.

6420.2 Recirculation and treatment equipment such as filters, recessed automatic surface skimmers, water ionizers, ozone generators, disinfection feeders and chlorine generators shall be tested and approved using the NSF/ANSI Standard 50-2007, Circulation System Components and Related Materials for Swimming Pool, Spas/Hot Tubs, dated April 2007.

6420.3 The recirculation system shall be designed to provide a minimum of four (4) turnovers of the pool volume per day. Pools that are less than one thousand square feet (1000 sq. ft.) shall be required to provide eight (8) turnovers per day.

6420.4 The design pattern of recirculation flow shall be one hundred percent (100 %) through the main drain piping and one hundred percent (100 %) through the perimeter overflow or sixty percent (60%) through the skimmer system.

6420.5 All swimming pools including wading pools and spas that are open to the public and that are built without a main drain collector tank shall be retrofitted with a properly sized and piped collector tank to eliminate direct suction through the main drain on or before December 19, 2008.

6420.6 All existing public swimming pools with direct suction shall install a main drain cover that meets the ANSI/ASME A112.19.8-2007 standard for drain covers on or before December 19, 2008.

6420.7 Public pools and spas with a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain) shall be equipped with a device or system such as a safety vacuum release system to prevent entrapment.

6420.8 Public pools and spas that are not in operation on December 19, 2008 do not need to meet the requirements specified in section 6420.5 and 6420.6 until they resume operations.

6420.9 A construction permit shall be obtained from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs prior to installation of a collector tank.

6420.10 Any pool that cannot be retrofitted by the dates specified in sections 6420.5 and 6420.6 shall be closed on or before December 19, 2008.

6420.11 Newly constructed swimming pools and spas built after the effective date of these regulations shall be built with either:

(a) More than one (1) drain;

(b) One (1) or more unblockable drains; or

(c) No main drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6421 WATER SUPPLY AND WASTEWATER DISPOSAL

6421.1 No direct mechanical connection shall be made between the potable water supply and the swimming pool or spa, chlorinating equipment, or the system of piping for the swimming pool or spa, unless it is protected against backflow and back-siphonage in a manner approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, or through an air gap meeting the approval of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

6421.2 Where it is not practicable to provide the minimum air gap, the connection to the fixture, equipment or appliance shall be equipped with a backflow preventer assembly of a type and at a location approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

6421.3 Backwash water or drainage waters of a swimming pool or spa shall be discharged into a sanitary sewer through an approved air gap, or by other means approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

6421.4 Deck drainage shall be discharged through an indirect drain.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6422 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS - DAILY WATER QUALITY & SAFETY LOGS

6422.1 Each swimming pool or spa shall record the following information on a daily basis, unless otherwise required:

(a) Name of each swimming pool or spa operator on duty;

(b) Name of each lifeguard on duty;

(c) Rate of flow readings;

(d) Weather;

(e) Temperature;

(f) Attendance;

(g) The time of filter backwash or cleaning;

(h) Injuries or accidents at the swimming pool or spa;

(i) Chemicals added to the waters;

(j) Malfunctioning or broken equipment;

(k) pH readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals;

(l) Free chlorine residual readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals;

(m) Total bromine residual readings, taken at a minimum of three (3) hour intervals; and

(n) Cyanuric acid, if used, residual readings, taken prior to opening the swimming pool or spa for bathers.

6422.2 The information required in section 6422.1 shall be recorded a minimum of three (3) times per day, unless otherwise required, and in conformance with the following schedule:

(a) The first recording of the day shall be made one-half (1/2) hour before the swimming pool or spa opens to bathers;

(b) The second recording shall be completed between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.; and

(c) The final recording shall be completed two (2) hours before closing.

6422.3 The Department may require more frequent recordings than those specified in this section if conditions, including high bather load, high temperatures, bright sunlight, or inadequate water quality exist.

6422.4 The daily operational log must be easily readable, dated and signed, and available on the premises for inspection by the Director for a minimum of three (3) years.

6422.5 Pool owners, managers, swimming pool and spa operators, and lifeguards shall be the responsible for maintaining the daily report logs required in section 6422.1.

6422.6 Complete reports shall reflect manually conducted pool water tests for pH and disinfectant levels at least as specified in section 6422.1.

6422.7 If a human fecal accident should occur, the pool owner, manager, swimming pool and spa operator, or lifeguard shall comply with all recommendations found in the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) "Fecal accident response recommendations for Aquatics staff" found on the internet web site: http://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/fecalacc.htm.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6423 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS - EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS

6423.1 A pool owner, manager, swimming pool and spa operator, lifeguard, or swimming instructor shall report any death, serious injury, or injury that requires resuscitation or admission to a hospital occurring at a swimming pool or spa, to the Department within twenty-four hours (24 hrs.) of the incident.

6423.2 A pool owner, manager, swimming pool and spa operator, lifeguard, or swimming instructor shall report a complaint of illness attributed by a bather to use of a swimming pool or spa to the Department within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident.

6423.3 The report to the Department shall include the following:

(a) Name and telephone number or address of the person injured or making a complaint;

(b) Date of the incident or onset of illness;

(c) Description of the type of injury or complaint;

(d) Name and telephone number of the person rendering assistance or first aid;

(e) The name of any known hospital, rescue squad or physician providing medical assistance; and

(f) Names and telephone numbers of available witnesses to the incident.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6424 EQUIPMENT - ENCLOSURES, AREA OR ROOMS, SECURITY ACCESS*

6424.1 Equipment designated by the manufacturer for outdoor use may be located in an equipment area. All other equipment shall be located in an equipment room or enclosure.

6424.2 Plastic pipe subject to a period of prolonged sunlight exposure area shall be surrounded with a fence at least four feet (4 ft.) high on all sides and not confined by a building or equivalent structure.

6424.3 A self-closing and self-latching gate with a locking device shall be provided, if necessary for access.

6424.4 An equipment room shall be protected on at least three (3) sides and overhead. The fourth side may be a gate, fence, or open if otherwise protected from unauthorized access.

6424.5 An equipment enclosure shall be lockable or otherwise protected from unauthorized access.

6424.6 Security access shall be installed on all pool equipment areas by June 1, 2009 for those that do not presently have a similar level of security.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6425 EQUIPMENT - ENCLOSURES, AREA OR ROOMS, FLOOR COVERING*

6425.1 The equipment enclosure, area or room floor shall be of concrete or other nonabsorbent material having a smooth slip resistant finish and shall have positive drainage, including a sump pump if necessary.

6425.2 Ancillary equipment, such as a heater, not contained in an equipment enclosure or room shall necessitate an equipment area as specified in section - 6424.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6426 EQUIPMENT - ENCLOSURES, AREA OR ROOMS, VENTILATION AND ACCESS*

6426.1 Equipment enclosures or rooms shall have either forced draft or cross ventilation.

6426.2 All below grade equipment rooms shall have a stairway access with forced draft ventilation or a fully louvered door and louvered vent on at least one other side.

6426.3 Where stairway access is not necessary to carry heavy items into the below grade room or vault, a "ship's ladder" may be used if approved by the Department.

6426.4 The opening to the equipment room or area shall be a minimum of three feet by six feet (3 ft. x 6 ft.) and shall provide easy access to the equipment.

6426.5 A hose bibb with vacuum breaker shall be located in the equipment room or area.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6427 EQUIPMENT - ENCLOSURES, AREA OR ROOMS, SIZE, LIGHTING, AND PROHIBITED ITEMS*

6427.1 The size of the equipment enclosure, room or area shall provide working space to perform routine operations.

6427.2 Clearance shall be provided for all equipment as prescribed by the manufacturer to allow normal maintenance operation and removal without disturbing other piping or equipment.

6427.3 Equipment enclosures, rooms or areas shall not be used for storage of chemical emitting corrosive fumes or for storage of other items to the extent that entrance to the room for inspection or operation of the equipment is impaired.

6427.4 In rooms with fixed ceilings, the minimum ceiling height shall be eight feet (8 ft.).

6427.5 Equipment enclosures, rooms or areas shall be lighted to provide thirty foot (30 ft.) candles of illumination at floor level.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6428 EQUIPMENT - MAINTENANCE, AND GOOD REPAIR

6428.1 All equipment and appurtenances shall be kept in good repair.

6428.2 Skimmers and returns shall be adjustable and functioning.

6428.3 Filter and pump rooms shall be kept clean and reasonably dry at all times.

6428.4 Decks, coping, and fencing shall be in good condition.

6428.5 Guard chairs, rails, ladders, steps, handicap and diving equipment shall be secure.

6428.6 The pool and pool deck shall be kept free from sediment, floating debris, visible dirt and algae. Pools shall be refinished when the pool surfaces cannot be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition.

6428.7 The pool water level shall be maintained at an elevation suitable for continuous skimming without flooding during periods of non-use.

6428.8 Face plates and main grates shall be intact, in place, and secured so that they cannot be removed without the use of tools.

6428.9 Hose bibs shall be in functioning order and vacuum breakers shall be on all hose bibs.

6428.10 Weirs shall be present and functioning.

6428.11 Scum gutters shall be free flowing.

6428.12 The room housing the swimming pool or spa shall contain adequate ceiling intake vents and shall be exhausted at floor level.

6428.13 All other facilities and equipment shall be operable and in good condition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6429 EQUIPMENT - FIRST AID AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT

6429.1 Safety equipment shall be mounted in a conspicuous place and be readily available for use.

6429.2 All swimming pools shall be provided with:

(a) A shepherd's hook securely attached to a one (1) piece pole not less than sixteen feet (16 ft.) in length;

(b) A minimum of 1/4 inch diameter throwing rope as long as one and one-half (11/2) times the maximum width of the pool or fifty feet (50 ft.), whichever is less, attached to a U.S. Coast Guard approved ring buoy. A rescue-tube shall be accepted as a substitute for the ring buoy where it is accompanied by a lifeguard who has been trained to use it properly;

(c) First aid supplies consisting of one (1) roll of adhesive tape, five (5) four inch (4 in.) gauze pads, two (2) eye dressing packets, one (1) box of assorted size bandages, one (1) pair of scissors, one (1) pair of tweezers, one (1) face mask for cardiopulmonary resuscitation with one-way valve, and one (1) pair of disposable latex plastic gloves;

(d) Two (2) blankets for emergency use only; and

(e) A backboard with straps not made of ropes or wires.

6429.3 Pools greater than fifty feet (50 ft.) in length shall have multiple units with at least one (1) shepherd's hook and one (1) lifesaving ring located along each of the longer sides of the pools.

6429.4 All pools with a slope transition shall have a safety line. The safety line shall be in place at all times unless a lifeguard or swimming instructor is present.

6429.5 Pool covers and solar blankets shall only be used during times when the pool is closed. Unless the pool cover or solar blanket is secured around the entire perimeter and is designed to support a live load of an adult person, the pool area shall be inaccessible to unauthorized individuals during times of cover or blanket use.

6429.6 A telephone capable of directly dialing 911 or other emergency notification system shall be provided and accessible to all pool users.

6429.7 A telephone shall be permanently affixed to a location inside the pool enclosure or outside the enclosure within seventy-five feet (75 ft.) of a bather entrance. The telephone shall be visible from within the pool enclosure or a sign shall be posted indicating the location of the emergency telephone.

6429.8 A sign with legible letters shall be posted at the telephone with the following information:

(a) Dialing instructions;

(b) Address of the pool location; and

(c) Telephone number.

6429.9 If the emergency telephone does not directly access 911, the emergency notification system shall:

(a) Provide twenty-four hour (24 hr.) monitoring of all incoming calls by a telecommunicator who answers only emergency calls;

(b) Be capable of routing calls to the local 911 telecommunicator via the 911 dedicated emergency trunk line; and

(c) Electronically transfer Automatic Number Identification and Automatic Locator Identification for the emergency telephone at the pool to the Enhanced 911 system for all calls routed to 911.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6430 PLUMBING SYSTEM - EQUIPMENT, DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES*

6430.1 A plumbing system and hoses conveying water shall be designed, constructed, installed and repaired with approved materials according to the ICC International Plumbing Code/2000 as amended by the D.C. Plumbing Code Supplement/ 2003 (Title 12F of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations), and subsequent amendments, hereinafter referred to as the "Plumbing Code".

6430.2 A plumbing fixture such as a handwashing facility, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable. N

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6431 PLUMBING SYSTEM - HANDWASHING SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW

6431.1 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms, shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit (110°F) (forty-three degrees Centigrade (43°C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

6431.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

6431.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

6431.4 An automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6432 PLUMBING SYSTEM - CLEANING OF PLUMBING FIXTURES

6432.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and well-maintained.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6433 DRESSING AND SANITARY FACILITIES - WALL, FLOOR COVERINGS, CLEANABILITY*

6433.1 Sanitary facility floors shall be constructed of concrete or other nonabsorbent materials with a smooth, slip-resistant surface to insure thorough cleaning.

6433.2 Carpets, duckboards and footbaths are prohibited.

6433.3 The intersection between the floor and walls shall be covered where either is not made of waterproof materials or the intersection is not sealed waterproof.

6433.4 Partitions between portions of the dressing room area, screened partitions, shower, toilet, and dressing room booths shall be of durable material, not subject to damage by water and shall be designed so that a waterway is provided between partitions and floor to permit thorough cleaning of the walls and floor areas with hoses and brooms.

6433.5 Dressing facility floors shall be continuous throughout the areas.

6433.6 Floor drains shall be provided, and floors shall be sloped not less than 1/4 inch per foot toward the drains to insure positive drainage.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6434 DRESSING AND SANITARY FACILITIES - NUMBERS, AND ACCESSIBILITY*

6434.1 Dressing and sanitary facilities shall be provided at all swimming pools.

6434.2 Section 6434.1 does not apply to swimming pools at hotels, motels, condominiums, and apartments where the:

(a) Pool's use is restricted to residents and guests; and

(b) Farthest unit in the hotel, motel, condominium, or apartment is less than three hundred feet (300 ft.) from the pool area, as measured along walkways provided for access by residents and guests to the pool area.

6434.3 Toilet, urinals and shower facilities shall be provided in accordance with this chapter and the Plumbing Code.

6434.4 Toilet and shower facilities shall be provided at swimming pools or spas unless these facilities are provided in the building housing the swimming pool or spa and the facilities are in close proximity to the swimming pool or spa.

6434.5 Every swimming pool or spa facility shall maintain toilet facilities for bathers which shall consist of toilet rooms with proper and sufficient water closets and lavatories. Toilet and shower facilities shall be conveniently located and readily accessible to the swimming pool area.

6434.6 The number of toilets and urinals shall be based upon the anticipated maximum attendance of bathers and their gender as follows:

(a) A minimum of one (1) toilet, one (1) lavatory, and one (1) urinal for the first one hundred (100) male bathers. A minimum of one (1) additional toilet, lavatory, and urinal for each additional two hundred (200) male bathers or major fraction thereof; and

(b) A minimum of two (2) toilets and two (2) lavatories for the first one hundred (100) female bathers. A minimum of one (1) additional toilet and one (1) lavatory for each additional one hundred (100) female bathers or major fraction thereof.

6434.7 Outside access to sanitary facilities shall be provided for bathers at outdoor pools.

6434.8 Where the restrooms are located within an adjacent building and the restroom doors do not open to the outside, the restroom doors shall be within fifty feet (50 ft.) of the building exterior door.

6434.9 If the restrooms are not visible from any portion of the pool deck, signs shall be posted showing directions to the facilities. These directions shall be legible from any portion of the pool deck and the letters shall be a minimum of one inch (1 in.) high.

6434.10 A hose bibb with vacuum breaker shall be provided in or within fifty feet (50 ft.) of each restroom to allow for ease of cleaning.

6434.11 One (1) diaper changing table shall be provided at each gender specific restroom. Diaper changing tables are not required at restrooms where all pools served are restricted to adult use only.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6435 DRESSING AND SANITARY FACILITIES - SUPPLIES, RECEPTACLE, AND AVAILABILITY

6435.1 Toilet paper holders with a supply of toilet paper shall be provided at each toilet.

6435.2 Sanitary facilities shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and sanitary supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels or blow dryer, soap and trash receptacle shall be provided.

6435.3 Dispensing units supplied with feminine hygiene products shall be installed in toilet or shower areas designated for female bathers.

6435.4 Each handwashing sink and shower shall be conveniently equipped with soap dispensers with either liquid or powdered soap. The dispensing unit shall be made of metal or plastic with no glass.

6435.5 An unbreakable mirror shall be provided over each handwashing sink.

6435.6 A covered receptacle for feminine hygiene products shall be provided at each toilet designated for female bathers.

6435.7 At least one (1) trash receptacle shall be provided in toilet areas.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6436 DRESSING AND SANITARY FACILITIES - SHOWER FACILITIES, NUMBERS, AND WATER TEMPERATURE*

6436.1 A swimming pool or spa shall have at a minimum the following number of shower facilities:

(a) One (1) shower for female bathers;

(b) One (1) shower for male bathers; and

(c) A minimum of two (2) shower heads for each sex. A minimum of one (1) additional shower head shall be required for each sex, and for each additional fifty (50) male or female bathers.

6436.2 Water temperature at the shower heads shall not exceed one hundred and ten degrees (110°F) (forty-three degrees Centigrade (43°C)).

6436.3 The water heater and thermostatically-controlled mixing valves shall be inaccessible to non-staff persons and shall be capable of providing two gallons per minute (2 gpm).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6437 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - EQUIPMENT, CHEMICAL SUPPLIES, USE, LABELING, AND ACCESS*

6437.1 Filter and pump rooms shall be kept clean and reasonably dry at all times.

6437.2 Controls, valves, and gauges shall be accessible and shall not be blocked by extraneous materials. Valves and gauges shall function properly and be labeled in accordance with a posted backwash procedures chart.

6437.3 Disinfectant and chemical feeders, capable of precisely introducing a sufficient quantity of an approved disinfecting agent to maintain the appropriate disinfectant residuals, shall be used at swimming pools and spas.

6437.4 No person shall use chemical products or pesticides in a manner that is inconsistent with the product's labeling, or that is in violation of any restrictions imposed on the product's use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or the Department.

6437.5 All chemical products used in swimming pool or spa waters shall be used according to:

(a) The Pesticide Operations Act of 1977 (D.C. Law 2-70; 20 DCMR Chapters 22-25;

(b) Manufacturer's use directions included in labeling; and

(c) The conditions of certification, if certification is required for use of pest control materials.

6437.6 Disinfecting products other than chlorine or bromine may be used after approval by the Department when they have been adequately demonstrated to:

(a) Be clearly labeled with directions for use;

(b) Provide a satisfactory residual effect which is easily measured;

(c) Work as effectively as chlorine or bromine; and

(d) Impart no toxic properties to the water that create a danger to public health or create objectionable physiological and environmental effects.

6437.7 Non-staff persons shall not have access to machinery, electric panels, or pool or spa chemicals.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6438 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CHEMICALS, STORAGE*

6438.1 Chemicals shall be labeled and stored in a cool, dry, and well ventilated area under a roof and the area shall be inaccessible to the public.

6438.2 Chemicals which emit corrosive fumes shall not be stored in the equipment room as specified in section 6427.3.

6438.3 Gas chlorine equipment and containers shall be:

(a) Located out of direct sunlight,

(b) Chained or fastened in place to prevent tipping;

(c) Equipped with a shut-off wrench when in use; and

(d) The installed power exhaust system of such equipment shall operate properly and a bottle of ammonia shall be available to test for leaks.

6438.4 Empty chemical containers shall be stored and disposed of in such a manner that they are not accessible to the public.

6438.5 Solutions and dry chemical spills, waste material, excess water, and debris shall be cleaned and removed promptly.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6439 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - EFFECTIVE BARRIERS, FENCES*

6439.1 All outdoor swimming pools and spa pools shall be surrounded by a minimum seventy-two inch (72 in.) high fence or other substantial barrier approved by the Department.

6439.2 The fence shall be continuous around the perimeter of the pool area that is not otherwise blocked or obstructed by adjacent buildings or structures and shall adjoin with itself or abut to the adjacent members.

6439.3 Access through the barrier or fence from dwelling units such as homes, apartments, motel rooms, and hotel rooms, shall be through self-closing, self-latching lockable gates of forty-eight inch (48 in.) minimal height from the floor with the latch located a minimum of fifty-four inches (54 in.) from the bottom of the gate or at least three inches (3 in.) below the top of the gate on the pool side.

6439.4 Doored access points from public rooms such as lobbies or club houses need not be through gates.

6439.5 Gates shall open outward away from the pool area.

6439.6 A latched, lockable gate shall be placed in the fence within ten feet (10 ft.) of the equipment area for service access.

6439.7 Screened pool enclosures shall be hardened on the bottom three feet (3 ft.)

6439.8 Fencing consideration shall be given to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Publication No. 362 Guidelines.

6439.9 Safety Covers that comply with ASTM Standard F1346 shall be retrofitted to comply with the swimming pool and spa drain cover entrapment protection standards of the ASME/ ANSI A112.19.8 performance standard as specified in section 6420.6.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6440 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - CONTROLLING PESTS*

6440.1 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests; N

(b) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control, such as covered, tamper-resistant bait stations; and

(c) Eliminating harborage conditions. N

6440.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment's professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its licensed pest exterminator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6441 PHYSICAL FACILITIES - REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, AND OTHER PESTS

6441.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition or the attraction of pests.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6442 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS - WHEN REQUIRED

6442.1 An applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department of Health for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) Opening a new swimming pool or spa;

(b) Beginning construction of a swimming pool or spa facility;

(c) Beginning modifications to an existing swimming pool or spa; or

(e) Changing the type of swimming pool or spa facility's operation.

6442.2 The applicant or licensee shall submit plans and specifications, a Department application form, and applicable fees to the Department at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, or renovation, or retrofits of any swimming pool or spa facility.

6442.3 The Department shall accept completed plans and specifications approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs that meet the requirements of these regulations, and shall report its findings to the applicant or licensee within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

6442.4 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply with these regulations or shall be returned as disapproved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6443 FACILITY AND OPERATING PLANS - CONTENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS

6443.1 The following plans and specifications for a swimming pool or spa shall be submitted to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs for review and approval as specified in section 6442.5:

(a) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, construction materials, and finish schedules;

(b) Proposed equipment types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions, performance capacities, and installation specifications;

(c) A complete set of elevations and drawings for all custom fabricated equipment;

(d) Other information that may be required before the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs may approve proposed plans for the construction, or renovation, or retrofits, including approvals by other District agencies, when necessary.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6444 CONSTRUCTION, INSPECTION, AND APPROVAL - PREOPERATIONAL INSPECTIONS

6444.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify that the swimming pool or spa is constructed and equipped in accordance with approved plans or approved modifications to those plans.

6444.2 The Department shall accept dimensional standards for competition type pools as published by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, 2003 or most recent addition; Federation Internationale de Natation Amateur (FINA), 2002-2005 Handbook or most recent addition; 1998-1999 Official Rules of Diving & Regulation of Regulation of United States Diving Inc. or most recent addition; 2003 United States Swimming Rules and Regulations or most recent addition, and National Federation of State High School Associations, 2002-2003 or most recent addition.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6445 LICENSE/PERMIT REQUIREMENTS - PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATING*

6445.1 No person shall own, operate, or manage a swimming pool or spa pool without a valid license issued by the Department.

6445.2 No person shall serve as a swimming pool and spa operator without a valid swimming pool and spa operator's permit issued by the Department.

6445.3 No person shall construct, install, renovate or retrofit any swimming pool or spa without first having received written approved from the Department of Health and the District of Columbia Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6446 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - PERIOD FOR SUBMISSION

6446.1 To qualify for a swimming pool and spa operator's permit an applicant shall:

(a) Complete an application form, provided by the Department of Health;

(b) Submit proof of certifications specified in section 6405; and

(c) Pay the required fee.

6446.2 A swimming pool and spa operator's permit shall be valid for a three (3) year period.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6447 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - FORM OF SUBMISSION

6447.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license to operate a public swimming pool or spa at least thirty (30) calendar days before the opening date of the swimming pool or spa, or before the expiration date of the current license for an existing swimming pool or spa.

6447.2 Licenses shall be valid for a two (2) year period and the fees shall be prorated for licenses issued after beginning of the license period.

6447.3 An applicant shall submit a written application for a public swimming pool or spa license on forms provided by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6448 APPLICATION PROCEDURE - CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION

6448.1 The application for a public swimming pool or spa license shall include the name, address, and signature of the applicant, and the following information:

(a) Name, mailing address and telephone number of the owner of the swimming pool or spa facility;

(b) Trade name, if applicable;

(c) Name and address of corporate officers, if applicable;

(d) Name and country of registered agent, if applicable;

(e) Address of the swimming pool or spa facility; and

(f) Type of swimming pool or spa.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6449 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTING

6449.1 A public swimming pool or spa facility shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to operate at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

6449.2 A public swimming pool or spa shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

6449.3 All licenses, certifications and current inspection results shall be conspicuously posted within the swimming pool or spa facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6450 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - NEW, RENOVATED, OR RETROFIT SWIMMING POOL OR SPA FACILITY

6450.1 The Department shall issue a license for a swimming pool and spa to an applicant after:

(a) A properly completed application is submitted;

(b) The required fees are submitted;

(c) The required plans, specifications, and information are reviewed and approved; and

(d) Preoperational inspections as specified in section 6444 show the facility is constructed, renovated, or retrofitted in accordance with the approved plans and specifications and that the facility is in compliance with this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6451 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE, CERTIFICATION - EXISTING FACILITIES, AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR LOCATION

6451.1 The Department shall renew a license to a swimming pool or spa facility after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the facility is in compliance with this Regulation.

6451.2 The Department shall issue a new license to a swimming pool or spa facility that has changed ownership or changed location after a properly completed application is submitted, reviewed and approved, applicable fees are paid, and an inspection shows that the facility is in compliance with this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6452 ISSUANCE - DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE, NOTICE

6452.1 If an application for a license or a renewal of a license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew a license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant's right to a hearing and the process and timeframes for appeal as prescribed in section 6488.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6453 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION - RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE

6453.1 Upon receipt of a license issued by the Department, the licensee, in order to retain the license, shall comply with this section.

6453.2 The licensee shall post the license and current inspection results in a conspicuous location within the swimming pool or spa facility as specified in section 6449.3.

6453.3 The licensee shall comply with the provisions of these regulations and approved plans as specified in section 6442.

6453.4 The licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard exists as specified in section 6463.

6453.5 The licensee shall allow representatives of the Department access to its swimming pool or spa facility as specified in section 6455.

6453.6 The licensee shall replace existing facilities and equipment approved for use before the effective date of these regulations with facilities and equipment as specified in sections 6420.5 and 6420.6.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6454 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION - LICENSE, PERMIT NOT TRANSFERABLE

6454.1 A license or permit to operate a swimming pool or spa facility shall not be transferred from one person to another person, from one facility to another facility, or from one location to another location that is owned, leased or operated by the same person.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6455 INSPECTION - DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL*

6455.1 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with these regulations, the applicant, or licensee, swimming pool and spa operator, or lifeguard shall allow the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a swimming pool or spa facility.

6455.2 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a swimming pool or spa facility, including, but not limited to its physical facilities, operations, equipment, records, chemicals and other operational supplies, at any time for one or more of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the swimming pool or spa facility is in compliance with these regulations;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the swimming pool or spa is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency;

(c) To investigate, examine and sample water quality; or

(d) To obtain information, and examine and copy all records on the premises relating to reporting requirements as specified in section 6422.

6455.3 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a swimming pool or spa facility, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or licensee is required to allow access to the District agencies as specified in section 6455.1;

(b) Access is a condition of the receipt and retention of a license as specified in section 6453.3;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

6455.4 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in section 6455.1, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in section 6455.3, and the applicant or licensee continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

6455.5 If the Department is denied access to a swimming pool or spa facility for an authorized purpose, after complying with section 6455.4, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license issued to the swimming pool or spa facility in accordance with sections 6473 and 6480;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license issued to the swimming pool or spa facility in accordance with section 6485; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court, to enforce these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6456 INSPECTION - FREQUENCY

6456.1 The Department shall inspect a public swimming pool and spa based on a written risk-based inspection schedule that is uniformly applied throughout the District.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6457 INSPECTION - FREQUENCY, PERFORMANCE FACTORS

6457.1 Within the parameters specified in section 6456, the Department of Health shall prioritize and conduct more frequent inspections based upon its assessment of a swimming pool or spa facility's history of compliance with these regulations and its potential as a vector for waterborne illness by evaluating:

(a) Past performance for numerous or repeat critical violations of these regulations;

(b) Past performance for numerous or repeat violations of these regulations that are noncritical violations;

(c) Past performance, for complaints investigated and found to be valid; and

(d) The type of swimming pool or spa facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6458 REPORT OF FINDINGS - DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

6458.1 The Department shall document on its inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the swimming pool or spa facility's legal identity, street and mailing addresses, type of facility, inspection date, and other information such as type of water supply and wastewater disposal, status of the license and personnel certificates that may be required; and

(b) Specific factual observations of regulatory violations that require correction by the licensee including:

(1) Failure of the licensee to ensure that its lifeguards possess a current American Red Cross, YMCA, or equivalent nationally recognized Certifications in Lifeguarding, Adult/ Child/ Infant CPR, and First Aid.

(2) Failure of the licensee to ensure that its swimming pool and spa operators possess valid swimming pool and spa operator's permits issued by the Department;

(3) Failure of the licensee to ensure that its lifeguards possess valid lifeguard permits issued by the Mayor; and

(4) Nonconformance with critical items of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6459 REPORT OF FINDINGS - SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

6459.1 The Department shall specify on its inspection report form the time frame for correction of violations as specified in sections 6465 and 6467.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6460 REPORT OF FINDINGS - ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

6460.1 At the conclusion of an inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of its completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee, and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the facility's operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable regulatory provisions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6461 REPORT OF FINDINGS - REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

6461.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee's or dealer's obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the swimming pool or spa facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6462 DEPARTMENT RECORDS REQUIREMENTS - RECORDS, RETENTION

6462.1 The Department shall keep and maintain a record of each inspection made of any public swimming pool or spa facility within the District for a period of three (3) years.

6462.2 The Department shall maintain annual records of the following information:

(a) Total number of licensed public swimming pools and spas by category;

(b) Number of inspections by category;

(c) Number of reinspections by category;

(d) Number of hearings;

(e) Number of license suspensions by category;

(f) Number of license revocations by category; and

(g) Number of general complaints investigated and the outcomes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6463 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD - CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING*

6463.1 A licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department whenever any of the following conditions occur:

(a) The disinfectant level is below the minimum or above the maximum in violation of section 6416.2(b);

(b) Improper residuals; or human or environmental contamination not properly treated or disinfected in violation of section 6418;

(c) The pH of the pool water is below 7.2 or above 7.8 in violation of section 6416.2(a);

(d) The clarity of the pool water is such that the main drain grate is not readily visible from the pool deck in violation of section 6414.1;

(e) The recirculation system or disinfection feeding equipment is missing, malfunctioning, or not functioning;

(f) A main drain grate is missing, unsecured, improperly secured or damaged;

(g) Direct suction exists on the main drain in violation of 6420.6 or the corrective actions are not completed by the required dates in violation of section 6420.5;

(h) A fire;

(i) A flood;

(j) An extended interruption of electrical or water service;

(k) A sewage backup;

(l) A misuse of chemicals;

(m) The onset of a confirmed waterborne illness;

(n) A gross unsanitary occurrence or condition;

(o) Failure to comply with any of the requirements in these regulations constituting a public nuisance dangerous to health;

(p) Any modification resulting in the operation of a swimming pool or spa in a manner unsanitary or dangerous to public health or safety;

(q) Failure to allow the Department access to a swimming pool or spa in violation of section 6455;

(r) Failure to provide copies of the facility's Child Safety Plan to the Department for review and approval in violation of section 6411.1;

(s) Existence of a condition that may endanger the health and safety of an individual using a swimming pool or spa, including but not limited to, a missing or not properly secured drain cover or other suction outlet entrapment hazard;

(t) Operation of a public swimming pool or spa without a valid license issued by the Department in violation of section 6445.1;

(u) Operation of a public swimming pool or spa without a valid swimming pool and spa operator's permit issued by the Department in violation of section 6445.2;

(v) Operation of a public swimming pool or spa without a lifeguard in violation of section 6410;

(w) Operation of a public swimming pool or spa with a lifeguard who does not possess a current American Red Cross, YMCA, or equivalent nationally recognized Certifications in Lifeguarding, Adult/ Child/ Infant CPR, and First Aid; or

(x) The Department determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in section 6455 the existence of any other condition which endangers the health, safety, or welfare of persons using the pool, including but not limited to:

(1) A drowning hazard;

(2) Broken glass, sharp edged or broken tile or metal, or other abrasion hazards;

(3) Fecal accidents;

(4) Electrical violations; or

(5) Severe algae growth.

6463.2 When any of the conditions listed in section 6463.1 of these regulations exist, the Department shall attach a sign that states:

POOL CLOSED. This facility is closed until further notice by the Department of Health for imminent health hazard(s) in violation of Section 6463 of the Swimming Pool and Spa Regulations. (Title 22, Chapter 64 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations)

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6464 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD - RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

6464.1 If the facility is closed as specified in section 6463, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department as specified in section 6484 before resuming operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6465 CRITICAL VIOLATION - TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

6465.1 A licensee shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation of these regulations immediately, except as specified in section 6465.2.

6465.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed five (5) business days after the inspection, for the licensee to correct a critical violation of this Regulation.

6465.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee to summary suspension of license pursuant to section 6480, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to section 6485, and civil penalties pursuant to section 6486.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6466 CRITICAL VIOLATION - VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

6466.1 After observing at the time of inspection a correction of a critical violation, the Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on its inspection report.

6466.2 After receiving notification that the licensee has corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in its records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6467 NONCRITICAL VIOLATION - TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

6467.1 The licensee shall correct noncritical violations by a date and time agreed to or specified by the Department but no later than thirty (30) business days after the inspection, except as specified in section 6467.2.

6467.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in section 6467.1 if the licensee submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance.

6467.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to section 6485, and the issuance of civil penalties pursuant to section 6486.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6468 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

6468.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to section 6480 or suspended or revoked pursuant to 6485 because of violations of this Regulation, the licensee shall submit to the Department a written request for reinspection.

6468.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the public swimming or spa facility within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

6468.3 A public swimming pool or spa facility shall not resume operations or remove from public view any warning or current inspection results as specified in section 6449.3 until the Department has reinspected the public swimming pool or spa facility and certified that it is in compliance with this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6469 SERVICE OF NOTICE - PROPER METHODS

6469.1 A notice issued in accordance with these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one of the following methods:

(a) The notice is personally served by the Department, a law enforcement officer, or person authorized to serve civil process and service is made to the licensee or person operating a public swimming pool or spa facility without a license;

(b) The notice is sent by the Department to the last known address of the licensee or person operating a public swimming pool or spa without a license by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) For civil infraction penalties, the notice is provided by the Department in accordance with the procedures stated in section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6470 SERVICE OF NOTICE CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

6470.1 A condemnation order or summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in section 6469.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the swimming pool or spa facility and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the licensee or the owner or custodian of the public swimming pool or spa, as appropriate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6471 SERVICE OF NOTICE - WHEN NOTICE IS EFFECTIVE

6471.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt or if service is made as specified in section 6470.1(b), at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6472 SERVICE OF NOTICE - PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

6472.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee or the person operating public swimming pool or spa facility without a license, or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6473 ENFORCEMENT ACTION - CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY

6473.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of these regulations if a licensee or person operating a public swimming pool or spa, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license as specified in section 6445;

(b) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in section 6453;

(c) Fails to allow the Department access to a swimming pool or spa as specified in section 6455;

(d) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in the inspection reports, orders, or warnings of the Department as specified in sections 6465 and 6467;

(e) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this section; or

(f) Fails to comply with an order issued as a result of an administrative hearing.

6473.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6474 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

6474.1 The Department may condemn and cause to be removed any equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies found in a swimming pool or spa facility the use of which does not comply with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6475 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

6475.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the swimming pool or spa facility or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, or other operational supplies under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of these regulations and the hazard or adverse effect.

(c) Completely identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identifying information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with section 6488, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department of Health may order the destruction, replacement or removal of the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department's representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6476 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

6476.1 The Department of Health shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that do not meet the requirements of this Code.

6476.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that are the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in section 6475 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6477 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

6477.1 Equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that are subject to a condemnation order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in section 6477.2.

6477.2 The Department may allow the licensee to store the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies in an area of the swimming pool or spa that does not restrict the facility's operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6478 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

6478.1 No person shall remove the tag, label, or other appropriate marking except under the direction of the Department as specified in section 6478.2.

6478.2 The Department of Health shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee notifies the Department that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies have been modified to meet NSF/ANSI or ASME/ANSI standards and the requirements of this Regulation, and the Department has conducted a re-inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6479 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

6479.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies as specified in section 6470, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing on the condemnation order.

6479.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days of receiving the Department condemnation order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) business hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) business hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the condemnation action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6480 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

6480.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a public swimming pool or spa facility, if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in the Regulations that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6481 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

6481.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a public swimming pool or spa facility is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Regulation that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department's representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the licensee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with section 6482, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6482 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

6482.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in section 6480 by providing written notice as specified in section 6470 of the summary suspension to the licensee, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or prior hearing.

6482.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days after receiving the Department's summary suspension notice. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) business hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) business hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6483 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

6483.1 After receiving a written request from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the swimming pool or spa facility for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6484 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

6484.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through re-inspection or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been eliminated.

6484.2 The suspended license shall be reinstated if the Department determines that the public health hazard or nuisance no longer exists. A notice of reinstatement shall be provided to the licensee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6485 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE

6485.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of these regulations shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued for a public swimming pool or spa pursuant to the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7- 731(b)) (2006 Suppl.), as amended. When there is a history of repeated violations or where a license has been previously suspended, the Department may revoke a license, upon a showing of a subsequent violation.

6485.2 Before the Department revokes or suspends a license, the licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6486 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CIVIL PENALTIES

6486.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any swimming pool or spa facility owner, or licensee for violation of any provision of this Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6487 ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES - CIVIL PENALTIES, NOTICES OF VIOLATION OR INFRACTIONS

6487.1 The notice of violation shall state the nature of the violation and allow a reasonable time for performance of the necessary corrective action.

6487.2 If a person fails to comply with the time stated in the notice of violation issued pursuant to this section, the Department shall issue a proposed compliance order, or a proposed cease and desist order, which shall include a statement of the nature of the violation, afford the right to a hearing, allow a reasonable time for compliance with the order, and state any penalties to be assessed for failure to comply with the order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6488 ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS - NOTICE, REQUEST FOR HEARING, BASIS AND TIME FRAME

6488.1 A person who receives a notice of hearing for an administrative remedy as specified in this chapter and elects to respond to the notice shall file a response to the notice within seven (7) calendar days after service.

6488.2 In response to an adverse administrative action, a licensee may submit a written request for a hearing to the Department within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of notice of adverse action.

6488.3 A hearing request shall not stay the Department's condemnation order as specified in section 6475, or the imposition of a summary suspension as specified in section 6481.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6489 ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS - CONTENTS OF RESPONSE TO HEARING NOTICE, OR HEARING REQUEST

6489.1 A response to a hearing notice shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement as to whether the respondent waives the right to a hearing;

(c) A statement of defense, mitigation, or explanation concerning any allegation of fact if any; and

(e) The name and address of the respondent's legal counsel, if any.

6489.2 A request for hearing shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement of defense, mitigation, denial, or explanation concerning each allegation of fact; and

(c) The name and address of the requester's legal counsel, if any.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6490 ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS - TIMELINESS

6490.1 The Department shall afford a hearing within seventy-two (72) business hours after receiving a written request for a hearing from:

(a) A licensee or person who is subject to an a condemnation order as specified in sections 6473 to 6479;

(c) A person whose license is summarily suspended as specified in sections 6480 to 6484; or

(d) A person whose license is suspended or revoked as specified in section 6485.

6490.2 A licensee or person who submits a request for a hearing as specified in section 6489.2 may waive the expedited hearing in a written request to the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6491 JUDICIAL REVIEW - APPEALS

6491.1 Any person who contests a final order of the Mayor issued pursuant to these regulations, after exhaustion of all administrative remedies, is entitled to judicial review of the final order upon filing a written petition for review in the District of Columbia Court of Appeals.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6492 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6493 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6494 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6495 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6496 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6497 RESERVED

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6498 RESERVED - FEE AND SERVICE SCHEDULE

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).
25-C DCMR § 6499 DEFINITIONS - GENERAL PROVISION, AND DEFINITIONS

6499.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

6499.2 DEFINITIONS

Abrasion hazard - a sharp or rough surface that would scrape the skin by chance during normal use.

Accessible - easy exposed for inspection and the replacement of materials and/or parts with the use of tools.

Algae - a marine plant classified along with Fungi and Bacteria in the group Thallophyta; thrives in sunny places on land or water utilizing photosynthesis for energy production; and can be destroyed easily with chlorine sanitizers.

Alteration - any change in equipment or materials used in the construction of a public swimming pool, after completion which does not conform to the original, DOH-approved plans, specifications, and change orders, including but not limited to, such items as pool or deck resurfacing, painting, equipment changes, and structural additions or deletions.

Approved safety pool cover - a manually or power-operated safety pool cover that conform to the entrapment protection standards of the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 performance standard, or any successor standard regulating swimming pool or drain cover.

ASME/ANSI - a safety standard accredited by the American National Standards Institute and published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

ASSE - the American Society of Sanitary Engineering.

Attendant - person who supervises or controls the entrance, exit or other activities of pool patrons. An attendant may not act as a lifeguard.

Barrier - a fence, safety cover, wall, building wall or a combination thereof, which completely surrounds or covers the swimming pool or spa and obstructs access to the swimming pool, or spa pool, including a natural or constructed topographical feature that prevents unpermitted access by children to a swimming pool, and with respect to a hot tub, a lockable cover.

Bather - any person using a swimming pool or spa pool and adjoining deck area for the purpose of water sports, recreation therapy or related activities.

Bather load - the maximum number of persons allowed in the pool / spa area at one time.

Beginner's areas - those water areas in pools, which are three feet (3 ft.), or less in water depth.

Breakpoint Chlorination - the addition of a sufficient amount of chlorine to water to destroy the combined chlorine present.

Brominator - a device used to apply or to deliver a bromine disinfectant to water at a controlled rate.

Bromine - a chemical sanitizing agent that is not as effective as chlorine in normal conditions; and is not affected by heat and continues to disinfect after combining making it great for spas.

Certified swimming pool and spa operator - a person who has the qualifications and training to operate a public swimming pool.

Chemical feeder - a mechanical device used for applying chemicals to pool or spa water.

Change Order - written notification submitted to the Department on a DOH Swimming Pool Change Order Request Form detailing any proposed equipment changes or material alterations which do not conform to the original approved plans, specifications, or previously approved change order.

Child safety plan - a plan prepared annually by the owner or manager of a facility housing a spa.

Chloramine - a compound formed when chlorine combines with nitrogen or ammonia that causes eye and skin irritation and has a strong, objectionable odor.

Chlorination - the process of introducing chlorine to remove undesired contaminates and acts as a sanitizer, algaecide and strong oxidizer.

Chlorinator - a device used to apply or to deliver a chlorine disinfectant to water at a controlled rate.

Circulation equipment - the mechanical components that are part of a circulation system in a pool or spa. Circulation equipment includes but is not limited to categories of pumps, hair and lint strainers, filters, valves, gauges, meters, heaters, surface skimmers, inlet/outlet fittings and chemical feeding devices. The components have separate functions, but when connected to each other by piping, perform as a coordinated system for purposes of maintaining pool or spa water in a clear, sanitary and desirable condition.

Circulation system - an arrangement of mechanical equipment or components, connected by piping to a pool or spa in a closed circuit. The function of a circulation system is to direct water from the pool or spa, causing it to flow through the various system components for purposes of clarifying, heating, purifying and returning the water back to the original body of water.

Clarifier - a chemical that coagulates and neutralizes suspended particles in water. There are two (2) types: inorganic salts of aluminum or iron and water-soluble organic polyelectrolyte polymers, also called coagulant or flocculent.

Closed pool - a pool which is not to be used by bathers and is posted with a pool closed sign visible from the pool deck or is inaccessible.

Coliform - a group of naturally-occurring bacteria that are present in all surface water and are in the intestinal tract of human and other warm-blooded animals. The presence of coliforms in a pool or spa indicates possible deficiencies in chlorine residuals, water clarity, filter backwashing or cleaning, pool cleanliness, swimmer adherence to showering rules and/or proper sample collection technique.

Commission - U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Competition pool - a pool designed to be routinely used to host organized swim competitions such as those sponsored by colleges, universities, swim leagues, and swim clubs.

Critical item - a provision of these regulations that, if in noncompliance, is more likely than other violations to serve as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

Critical limit - the maximum or minimum value to which a physical, biological, or chemical parameter must be controlled at a critical control point to prevent, eliminate or reduce to an acceptable level the occurrence of a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard.

Critical violation - a condition or practice that violates these regulations and results in a waterborne illness, or endangers the public health, safety, or welfare.

Cyanuric - a chemical that helps reduce the excess loss of chlorine in water due to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. It is also called stabilizer, isocyanuric acid conditioner or triazinetrione.

Dark - a Munsell Color Value from zero (0) to four (4).

Decks - those areas immediately adjacent to or attached to a pool or spa that are specifically constructed or installed for use by users sitting, standing or walking.

Deep areas - water depths in excess of five feet (5 ft.)(1.42 m).

Department - Department of Health.

D.E. - the Diatomaceous Earth that is used as a filter aid in DE type filters, including alternative filter aids that have been approved under NSF / ANSI Standard 50-2007, and accepted by the filter manufacturer.

Disinfectant - energy or chemicals used to kill undesirable or pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms that have a measurable residual at a level adequate to make the desired kill.

Diving board - a recreational mechanism for entering a swimming pool, consisting of a semi-rigid board that derives its elasticity through the use of a fulcrum mounted below the board.

Duckboard - a boardwalk laid across a muddy ground or flooring; made of non-porous easily cleanable material when used in pool and showers areas, and locker rooms.

Effective barrier - a barrier which consists of a building, or equivalent structure, plus a 48 inch minimum height fence on the remaining sides or a continuous 48 inch minimum height fence. All access through the barrier shall have (1) one or more of the following safety features: alarm, key lock or self-locking doors and gates. Safety covers that comply with the American Society for Testing Materials standard F2387 may also be considered as an effective barrier.

Emergency equipment - a backboard with straps, two (2) blankets, cervical collars in adult and infant sizes or a commercial head immobilizer.

First aid kit - a water resistant, clearly labeled, latched container providing sufficient first-aid equipment to treat up to fifteen (15) people. The kit shall contain as a minimum: alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment, assorted adhesive bandages, a breathing barrier, a cold pack, gauze, and disposable gloves.

Hose bibb - any connection to a potable water supply.

Imminent health hazard - a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity and duration of the anticipated injury.

Inaccessible - enclosed by an effective barrier.

Jump board - a recreational mechanism that has a coil spring, leaf spring or comparable device located beneath the board which is activated by the force exerted in jumping on the board.

Lifeguard - a person having the qualifications of and possessing a current American Red Cross, YMCA, or equivalent Lifeguard Certification, current First Aid Certificate and current CPR (which includes adult, child, and infant) Certificate and is responsible for the safety of the users of a public swimming pool.

Main drain - a submerged suction outlet typically located at the bottom of a pool or spa to conduct water to a re-circulating pump.

Marking or Markings - the placement and installation of visual marking cues to help patrons identify step, bench and swimout outlines, slope break location, depth designations, and NO ENTRY and NO DIVING warnings. When markings are specified to be dark the term "dark" shall have the meaning defined in this Regulation.

Membrane filter test - a swap sample taken from any hard surface.

Modification - any act which changes or alters the original characteristics of the pool as approved. For example, changes in the recirculation systems, decking, treatment systems, disinfection system, and pool shape are modifications.

N,N-Diethyl-p-Phenylenediamie (DPD) - pH indicator in liquid or tablet form is the most common chlorine/bromine testing reagent; the indicator turns pink in the presence of disinfectant residual and the pinker the sample, the higher the chlorine/bromine reading.

NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit) - a means of measuring water clarity.

Owner - the owner of the facility or his/her designated agent such as a property manager or on-site representative.

Oxidation - reduction potential controller (ORP) - device used to measure sanitizer effectiveness and to control ozone generators, chlorine generators, and ionizers (in combination with chlorine). ORP is the only practical method to electronically monitor sanitizer effectiveness.

Pool turnover - the circulation of the entire pool volume through the filter system.

Precoat pot - a container with a valved connection to the suction side of the recirculation pump of a pressure diatomaceous earth (D.E.) type filter system used for coating the filter with D.E. powder or NSF / ANSI Standard 50-2007 and manufacturer approved substitute filter aid.

Private swimming pool or spa pool - any swimming pool or spa pool built in conjunction with a single family residence used or intended to be used solely by the owner or lessee, and the owner's or lessee's immediate family and guests invited to use it without payment of a fee.

Public swimming pool or spa pool - any swimming pool or spa pool, other than a private residential swimming pool or spa pool which is intended to be used collectively by numbers of persons and operated by any person, whether as owner, lessee, operator or concessionaire, regardless of whether a fee is charged for such use, including but not limited to, tourist establishment swimming pools or spa pools, tub baths, saunas and steam baths, swimming pools or spa pools owned or operated by an apartment, condominium, cooperative, or other tenant or ownership group, private club or association of persons, or any association of persons; or pools operated by or serving camps, churches, adult or child day care centers, assisted living facilities, group home facilities, health spas, institutions, parks, District government agencies, or schools.

Quaternary ammonium (quats) - a compound derived from ammonium with hydrogen atoms replaced by organic groups; used as surface-active agent and disinfectant.

Recirculation system - a system consisting of pumps, motors, piping, filters, inlets, outlets, disinfecting and other water conditioning equipment and necessary accessories.

Return - pool water that is going back into the filtration system and chemical feeding cycle, usually from the gutters, skimmer or return lines.

Safety vacuum release system - a vacuum release system capable of providing vacuum release at a suction outlet caused by a high vacuum occurrence due to a suction outlet flow blockage.

Sauna - the application of water vapor.

Scum gutter - overflow line along the sides of the pool that takes water to the return lines in the filtration system.

Shallow end of pool - the portion of the pool with water depths of four feet (4 ft.) or less.

Shepherd's hook - a twelve foot (12 ft.) pole with a loop on the end to grasp a person in the water who is in distress without entering the water.

Ship's ladder - the entry and exit ladders found on the pool sides and ends.

Showers - baths where the bather's body is sprayed with a fine stream of water from small jets.

Skimmer or surface skimmer - overflow water line that traps debris in the weir basket and returns the water to the filtration system for treatment.

Slip resistant - having a textured surface which is not conducive to slipping under contact of bare feet unlike glazed tile or masonry terrazzo and non-textured plastic materials. Manufactured surface products shall be designed by the manufacturer as suitable for walking surfaces in wet areas. Minimum acceptable static coefficient of friction to determine slip resistance is 0.7 on horizontal wet walking surfaces in the pool and for the wet deck area.

Spa operator - any person in possession of a valid District of Columbia spa operator's permit who is directly responsible for the operation of a public spa.

Spa pool - a pool used in conjunction with high velocity air or water directed onto a bather's body with the intent of producing relaxed or therapeutic effects.

Special purpose pool - a public pool used exclusively for a specific supervised purpose, including springboard or platform diving training, SCUBA diving instruction, and aquatic programs for handicapped individuals, pre-school or kindergarten children.

Spray pool (spray deck or wet deck) - an artificial structure used to impound water either above or below the ground surface into which treated water is sprayed and recirculated.

Stationary diving platform - stationary diving platforms are used for diving and are constructed or located on site, and may be natural or artificial rocks, pedestals or other items.

Steam bath - the application of water vapor.

Swimming instructor - person who offers progressive swimming instruction.

Swimming pool - any artificial structure, basin, chamber, or tank, either above or below ground, including hot tubs, spas, portable spas, and non-portable wading pools, which is used or intended to be used for the primary purpose of swimming, diving, wading, or recreational bathing and including all appurtenant equipment, structures, and facilities located within a common enclosure.

Swimming pool and spa operator - any person in possession of a valid District of Columbia swimming pool operator's permit issued by the Mayor and who is directly responsible for the operations of a public swimming pool.

Swim spa - a pool used in conjunction with a directional flow of water against which one swims.

Turnover time - the period of time (usually hours) required to circulate the complete volume of water in a pool through the recirculation system.

Unblockable drain - a drain of any size and shape that a human body cannot sufficiently block to create a suction entrapment hazard.

Vacuum breakers - a plumbing device that prevents the pool's recirculation pumps from being damaged by shutting the system down when there is a drop in air pressure.

Wading pool - a shallow pool designed to be used by children.

Water active pool - a water recreation attraction which has water related activities such as rope ladders, rope swings, cargo nets and other similar activities.

Water Ionizer - an appliance that filters and converts water into ions; separates water into an alkaline fraction and an acid fraction by exploiting the electric charge of the calcium and magnesium ions present in nearly all sources of drinking water. In the case of water chemistry sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach) is converted into hypochlorous acid, the active sanitizing agent in pool water.

Water recreation attraction - a facility with design and operational features that provide patron recreational activity and purposefully involves immersion of the body partially or totally in the water. Water recreation attractions include water slides, water activity pools, interactive water features, wave pools and any additional pool within the boundaries of the attraction.

Water-safe - a bather who is able to swim and capable of exercising proper judgment in taking action for self-preservation under emergency conditions.

Water therapy facilities - pools used exclusively for water therapy to treat a diagnosed injury, illness, or medical condition, wherein the medical treatment or physical therapy is provided under the direct supervision of medical personnel licensed pursuant to the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995, (DC Law 10-247; D.C. Official Regulation § 3-1205.01) (2006 Suppl.); and the prescribing physician authorizes a plan of treatment justifying use of a pool for health care purposes.

Weir - baskets found at the skimmer line that traps and prevents debris from entering the filtration system in the return lines which could damage the pumps or obstruct the filters.

Wet deck area - the four foot wide unobstructed pool deck area around the outside of the pool water perimeter, curb, ladders, handrails, diving boards, diving towers, pool slides, waterfalls, water features, starting blocks, planters, or lifeguard chairs.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 55 DCR 012845 (December 26, 2008).

25-C99 DEFINITIONS

25-C DCMR § 9999 GENERAL PROVISION AND DEFINTIONS

9999.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

9999.2 DEFINITIONS

Abrasion hazard – a sharp or rough surface that would scrape the skin by chance during normal use.

Accessible – easy exposed for inspection and the replacement of materials and/or parts with the use of tools.

Agitated water – an aquatic venue with mechanical means (aquatic features) to discharge, spray, or move the water's surface above and/or below the static water line of the aquatic venue. Where there is no static water line, movement shall be considered above the deck plane.

Algae – a marine plant classified along with Fungi and Bacteria in the group Thallophyta; thrives in sunny places on land or water utilizing photosynthesis for energy production; and can be destroyed easily with chlorine sanitizers.

Alteration – any change in equipment or materials used in the construction of a public swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna that does not conform to DCRA or DOH-approved plans, specifications, and change orders. Or, any act which changes or alters the original characteristics of the pool that requires a Building Permit issued by DCRA or DOH-approval, including but not limited to: pool or deck resurfacing, painting, equipment changes, structural additions or deletions, including but not limited to changes in the recirculation systems, decking, treatment systems, disinfection system, or pool shape modifications.

ASME/ANSI – a safety standard accredited by the American National Standards Institute and published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Aquatic feature – an individual component within an aquatic facility, such as slides, structures designed to be climbed or walked across, and structures that create falling or shooting water.

Aquatic facility – an artificially constructed structure or modified natural structure where the general public is exposed to water intended for recreational or therapeutic purpose. Such structures do not necessarily contain standing water, so water exposure may occur via contact, ingestion, or aerosolization. Examples include swimming pools, wave pools, lazy rivers, surf pools, spas (including spa pools and hot tubs), therapy pools, waterslide landing pools, spray pads, and other interactive water venues.

Barrier – a fence, safety cover, wall, building wall or a combination thereof, which completely surrounds or covers the swimming pool or spa and obstructs access to the swimming pool, or spa pool, including a natural or constructed topographical feature that prevents unpermitted access by bathers to a swimming pool, and with respect to a hot tub, a lockable cover. All access through the barrier shall have (1) one or more of the following safety features: alarm, key lock or self-locking or self-latching doors and gates.

Bather – any person using a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna and adjoining deck area for the purpose of water sports, recreation therapy or related activities.

Bather load – the maximum number of persons allowed in the pool / spa area at one time.

Beginners’ areas – water depths of three feet (3 ft.) or zero point nine one four four meter (0.9144 m) or less.

Breakpoint Chlorination – elimination of inorganic chloramines by adding enough Free Chlorine to destroy the inorganic chloramines that contribute to combined chlorine. Ten times the Combined Chlorine minus the existing Free Chlorine is used.

Bromine – a chemical sanitizing agent that is not as effective as chlorine in normal conditions and is not affected by heat, and continues disinfecting after combining making it great for spas.

Chemical feeder – a mechanical device used for applying chemicals to the water in swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas.

Chloramine – a compound formed when chlorine combines with nitrogen or ammonia causing eye and skin irritations and has a strong, objectionable odor.

Chlorination – the process of introducing chlorine to water to remove undesired contaminates and acts as a sanitizer, algaecide and strong oxidizer.

Circulation equipment – the mechanical components that are part of a circulation system in a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna. Circulation equipment includes but is not limited to categories of pumps, hair and lint strainers, filters, valves, gauges, meters, heaters, surface skimmers, inlet/outlet fittings, and chemical feeding devices. The components have separate functions, but when connected to each other by piping, perform as a coordinated system for purposes of maintaining swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna in a clear, sanitary and desirable condition.

Circulation system – an arrangement of mechanical equipment or components, connected by piping to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna in a closed system. The function of a circulation system is to direct water from the pool or spa, causing it to flow through the various system components for purposes of clarifying, heating, purifying, and returning the water back to the original body of water.

Clarifier – a chemical that coagulates and neutralizes suspended particles in water. There are two (2) types: inorganic salts of aluminum or iron and water-soluble organic polyelectrolyte polymers, also called coagulant or flocculent.

Coliform – a group of naturally-occurring bacteria that are present in all surface water and are in the intestinal tract of human and other warm-blooded animals. The presence of coliforms in a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna indicates possible deficiencies in chlorine residuals, water clarity, filter backwashing or cleaning, pool cleanliness, swimmer adherence to showering rules and/or proper sample collection technique.

Colorimetric – one of four (4) test methods used to determine the concentration of a chemical element or chemical compound in a solution with the aid of a color reagent.

Competition pool – a swimming pool designed to be routinely used to host organized swim competitions such as those sponsored by colleges, universities, swim leagues, and swim clubs.

Coping – edge between deck of pool and water.

Critical item – a provision of these regulations that, if in noncompliance, is more likely than other violations to serve as a vector for a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

Critical limit – the maximum or minimum value to which a physical, biological, or chemical parameter must be controlled at a critical control point to prevent, eliminate or reduce to an acceptable level the occurrence of a waterborne illness, or an environmental health hazard.

Critical violation – a condition or practice that violates these regulations and results in a waterborne illness, or endangers the public health, safety, or welfare.

Cyanuric – a chemical that helps reduce the excess loss of chlorine in water due to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. It is also called stabilizer, isocyanuric acid conditioner or triazinetrione.

Dark – a Munsell Color Value from zero (0) to four (4).

DCRA – Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs

Decks – those areas immediately adjacent to or attached to a swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna that are specifically constructed or installed for use by users sitting, standing or walking.

Deep areas – water depths in excess of five feet (5 ft.) or one point five two four meters (1.524 m).

Department or DOH – Department of Health.

D.E. – the Diatomaceous Earth that is used as a filter aid in DE type filters, including alternative filter aids that have been approved under NSF / ANSI Standard 50-2007, and accepted by the filter manufacturer.

Disinfectant – energy or chemicals used to kill undesirable or pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms that have a measurable residual at a level adequate to make the desired kill.

Diving board – a recreational mechanism for entering a swimming pool, consisting of a semi-rigid board that derives its elasticity through the use of a fulcrum mounted below the board.

Duckboard – a boardwalk laid across a muddy ground or flooring; made of non-porous easily cleanable material when used in pool deck area.

Electronic – one of four (4) test methods used to determine the concentration of a chemical using a portable/hand held test meter for pool-side use.

Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) – a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut off electric power in the event of a ground-fault (a break in the low-resistance grounding path from a tool or electrical system) within as little as 1/40 of a second, as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) in publication OSHA 3007 1998 (Revised), an informational booklet.

Hose bibb – any connection to a potable water supply.

Imminent health hazard – a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity and duration of the anticipated injury.

Inaccessible – enclosed by an effective barrier.

Jump board – a recreational mechanism that has a coil spring, leaf spring or comparable device located beneath the board which is activated by the force exerted in jumping on the board.

Licensee – the owner of an aquatic facility.

Lifeguard – a person having the qualifications of and possessing a current American Red Cross, YMCA, or other Lifeguard Certifications, current First Aid Certificates, current CPR (which includes adult, child, and infant), Certificates issued by nationally recognized aquatic training organizations, such as the International Lifeguard Training Program™ (ILTP™), that are adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health; and is responsible for the safety of the users of a public swimming pool, spa pool, and sauna.

Main drain – a submerged suction outlet typically located at the bottom of a swimming pool, spa pool, and sauna to conduct water to a re-circulating pump.

Marking or Markings – the placement and installation of visual marking cues to help patrons identify step, bench and swim out outlines, slope break location, depth designations, and NO ENTRY and NO DIVING warnings. When markings are specified to be dark the term “dark” shall have the meaning defined in this Regulation.

Membrane filter test – a swab sample taken from any hard surface.

N,N-Diethyl-p-Phenylenediamine (DPD) – pH indicator in liquid or tablet form is the most common chlorine/bromine testing reagent; the indicator turns pink in the presence of disinfectant residual and the pinker the sample, the higher the chlorine/bromine reading.

NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit) – a means of measuring water clarity.

Oxidation reduction potential (ORP) controller – device used to measure sanitizer effectiveness and to control ozone generators, chlorine generators, and ionizers (in combination with chlorine). ORP is the only practical method to electronically monitor sanitizer effectiveness.

Oxidation reduction potential (ORP) – a measure of the tendency for a solution to either gain or lose electrons; higher (more positive) oxidation reduction potential indicates a more oxidative solution.

Pool safety cover – a manually or power-operated safety pool cover that conforms to the entrapment protection standards of the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 performance standard, or any successor standard regulating swimming pools or drain covers.

Pool and Spa Operator – an individual directly responsible for the operation of a swimming pool, spa pool, and sauna facility with certifications that are registered by the National Swimming Pool Foundation, and who are in possession of a current District of Columbia Pool and Spa Operator’s Registration Card.

Precoat – the layer of diatomaceous earth deposited on the filter septa at the start of a filter run with D.E. filters.

Precoat feeder – a chemical feeder designed to inject diatomaceous earth into a filter in sufficient quantity to coat the filter septa at the start of a filter run.

Private residential swimming pools, spa pools, and saunas – residential swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna built in conjunction with a single family residence used or intended to be used solely by the owner or lessee, and the owner or lessee’s immediate family and guests invited to use it without payment of a fee.

Public pool – any public pool or pools serving multi-family units, as classified and defined within this definition that are used for swimming or bathing and are operated by an owner, lessee, operator, licensee, or concessionaire, regardless of whether a fee is charged for use. Public pools shall be further classified and defined as follows:

(a) Class A, Competition Pool – any pool intended for use for accredited competitive aquatic events such as Federation Internationale De Natation (FINA), USA Swimming, USA Diving, USA Synchronized Swimming, USA Water Polo, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), or National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The use of the pool is not limited to competitive events.

(b) Class B, Municipal Pool – any pool intended for public recreational use.

(c) Class C, Semi-Public Pool – any pool operated solely for and in conjunction with lodgings such as hotels, motels, apartments, condominiums.

(d) Class D-1, Wave Action Pool – a pool designed to simulate breaking or cyclic waves for purposes of general play or surfing.

(e) Class D-2, Activity Pool – a pool designed for casual water play ranging from simple splashing activity to the use of attractions placed in the pool for recreation.

(f) Class D-3, Catch Pool – a body of water located at the termination of a manufactured waterslide attraction. The body of water is provided for the purpose of terminating the slide action and providing a means for exit to a deck or walkway area.

(g) Class D-4, Leisure River – a manufactured stream of water of near-constant depth in which the water is moved by pumps or other means of propulsion to provide a river-like flow that transports bathers over a defined path that may include water features and play devices.

(h) Class D-5, Vortex Pool – a circular pool equipped with a method of transporting water in the pool for the purpose of propelling riders at speeds dictated by the velocity of the moving stream of water.

(i) Class D-6, Interactive Play Attraction – a manufactured water play device or a combination of water-based play devices in which water flow volumes, pressures, or patterns can be varied by the bather without negatively influencing the hydraulic conditions for other connected devices. These attractions incorporate devices or activities such as slides, climbing and crawling structures, visual effects, user-actuated mechanical devices and other elements of bather-driven and bather-controlled play.

(j) Class D-7, Amusement Park Attraction – an attraction or ride traditionally found in amusement parks that are designed to permit bather contact with water.

(k) Class D-8, Natural Body of Water – a natural or man-made aquatic play area normally regarded as oceans, lakes, ponds, streams, quarries, or bodies of water that the local jurisdiction has designated as natural bodies of water.

(l) Class E – pools used for instruction, play or therapy and with temperatures above eighty-six degrees Fahrenheit (86° F) or (thirty degrees Celsius (30.0 ° C). Public pools are either a diving or non-diving type. Diving types of public pools are classified into types as an indication of the suitability of a pool for use with diving equipment.

(m) Type VI-IX – public pools suitable for the installation of diving equipment by type.

(n) Type O – a non-diving public pool.

Qualified lifeguards – individuals who have successfully completed nationally recognized aquatic training organizations adopted and recognized by the D.C. Department of Health, hold current certificates for such training, have met the pre-service requirements, and are participating in continuing in-service training requirements of the aquatic facility.

Quaternary ammonium (quats) – a compound derived from ammonium with hydrogen atoms replaced by organic groups; used as surface-active agent and disinfectant.

Recirculation system – a system consisting of pumps, motors, piping, filters, inlets, outlets, disinfecting and other water conditioning equipment and necessary accessories.

Return – pool water that is going back into the filtration system and chemical feeding cycle, usually from the gutters, skimmer or return lines.

Safety vacuum release system – a vacuum release system capable of providing vacuum release at a suction outlet caused by a high vacuum occurrence due to a suction outlet flow blockage.

Sauna – aquatic feature including but not limited to the application of water vapor from hot water facilities such as Jacuzzis, hot tubs and steam baths.

Scum gutter - overflow line along the sides of the swimming pool, spa pool, and sauna that takes water to the return lines in the filtration system.

Shallow end of pool – the portion of a pool where the water’s depth is four feet (4 ft.) or less.

Shepherd’s hook – a pole twelve (12) to sixteen (16) feet in length with a loop on the end to grasp a person in the water who is in distress without entering the water.

Ship’s ladder – the entry and exit ladders found on the pool sides and ends.

Showers – baths where the bather’s body is sprayed with a fine stream of water from small jets.

Skimmer or surface skimmer – overflow water line that traps debris in the weir basket and returns the water to the filtration system for treatment.

Slip resistant – having a textured surface which is not conducive to slipping under contact of bare feet unlike glazed tile or masonry terrazzo and non-textured plastic materials. Manufactured surface products shall be designed by the manufacturer as suitable for walking surfaces in wet areas. Minimum acceptable static coefficient of friction to determine slip resistance is 0.7 on horizontal wet walking surfaces in the pool and for the wet deck area.

Spa pool – a structure intended for either warm or cold water where prolonged exposure in not intended. Spa structures are intended to be used for bathing or other recreational uses and are not usually drained and refilled after each use. It may include, but is not limited to, hydrotherapy, air induction bubbles, and recirculation.

Stationary diving platform – used for diving and are constructed or located on site, and may be natural or artificial rocks, pedestals or other items.

Super-chlorination – the addition of large quantities of chlorine-based chemicals that kills algae, destroys odor, or improves the ability to maintain a disinfectant residual.

Titrimetric – one of four (4) test methods used to determine the unknown concentration of a chemical by using a standard concentration of a known reagent.

Turbidimetric – one of four (4) test methods used to measure the amount of solid particles that are suspended in water and that cause light rays shining through the water to scatter and appear cloudy.

Turnover time – the period of time (usually hours) required to circulate the complete volume of water in a pool through the recirculation system.

Unblockable drain – a drain of any size and shape that a human body cannot sufficiently block to create a suction entrapment hazard.

UL Standard – a document published by UL, a global independent safety science company, detailing construction, performance, environmental, sustainability or other requirements utilized for certification.

Vacuum breakers – a plumbing device that prevents the pool’s recirculation pumps from being damaged by shutting the system down when there is a drop in air pressure.

Water Ionizer – an appliance that filters and converts water into ions; separates water into an alkaline fraction and an acid fraction by exploiting the electric charge of the calcium and magnesium ions present in nearly all sources of drinking water. In the case of water chemistry sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach) is converted into hypochlorous acid (HCIO), the active sanitizing agent in pool water.

Water recreation attraction – a facility with design and operational features that provide patron recreational activity and purposefully involves immersion of the body partially or totally in the water. Water recreation attractions include water slides, water activity pools, interactive water features, wave pools and any additional pool within the boundaries of the attraction.

Water-safe – a bather who is able to swim and capable of exercising proper judgment in taking action for self-preservation under emergency conditions.

Water therapy facilities – swimming pools, spa pools, or saunas used exclusively for water therapy to treat a diagnosed injury, illness, or medical condition, wherein the medical treatment or physical therapy is provided under the direct supervision of medical personnel licensed pursuant to the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995 (D.C. Law 10-247; D.C. Official Regulation § 3-1205.01 (2016 Repl.)); and the prescribing physician authorizes a plan of treatment justifying use of a pool for health care purposes.

Weir – baskets found at the skimmer line that trap and prevent debris from entering the filtration system in the return lines which could damage the pumps or obstruct the filters.

Wet deck area – the four foot wide unobstructed pool deck area around the outside of the pool water perimeter, curb, ladders, handrails, diving boards, diving towers, pool slides, waterfalls, water features, starting blocks, planters, or lifeguard chairs.

Zones of patron surveillance – when qualified lifeguards are used, the staffing plan shall include diagrammed “zones of patron surveillance” for each aquatic facility where:

(a) A qualified lifeguard is capable of viewing the entire area of the assigned “zones of patron surveillance”;

(b) A qualified lifeguard is able to reach the furthest extent of the assigned “zones of patron surveillance” within 20 seconds;

(c) Identify whether a qualified lifeguard is in an elevated stand, walking, in-water and/or other approved position;

(d) Identifying any additional responsibilities for each zone; and

(e) All areas of each aquatic venue are assigned a “zones of patron surveillance”.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 5359 (June 9, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Aquatic Facilities Regulations: Swimming Pools, Spa Pools, And Saunas 25-C DCMR § 9999

25-D MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT AND HEALTH SPA FACILITY REGULATIONS

25-D1 TITLE, INTENT, SCOPE

25-D DCMR § 100 SANITATION ─ MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT OR HEALTH SPA FACILITY-SUPPLIED LINENS, AND GARMENTS

504.1 Each massage establishment or health spa facility shall provide customers clean, sanitary, opaque linens or garments capable of covering the customer’s specified anatomical areas.

504.2 Any garment provided for a customer to wear while waiting for or receiving massage therapy or making use of the massage establishment or health spa facility’s other amenities shall be washed and sanitized after use and before it is offered for use to another person.

504.3 Linens and garments that are found to be in poor condition shall not be used and shall be discarded and replaced with linens in good condition as specified in section 503.9.

504.3 Sufficient laundry hampers or storage bins shall be provided for customers to return garments and similar articles to the massage establishment or health spa facility for cleaning and sanitizing.

504.5 Laundry hampers or storage bins shall be clearly marked as containing used garments to prevent inadvertent customer reuse.

504.6 Used or soiled garments or similar articles shall be kept separate from clean ones while being stored.

504.7 Single-use slippers or sandals provide to a customer for use shall be brand new.

504.8 Single-use slippers or sandals shall never be reused for another customer and shall be discarded in an appropriate solid waste receptacle immediately following its use.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 101 INTENT ─ SAFETY

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to protect the public health and safety by preventing and controlling the spread of communicable diseases and to protect the environment by promoting and regulating the safety and sanitary conditions of massage establishments and health spa facilities.

101.2 These regulations establish definitions; prescribe minimum standards for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of massage establishments and health spa facilities; set standards for equipment and facilities; set standards for personnel, and sanitary operations; establish recordkeeping and reporting requirements; establish prohibited conduct within massage establishments and health spa facilities; provide for the issuance of licenses and certifications; establish massage establishment and health spa facility licensing fees; and provide for enforcement through inspections, suspension and revocation of licenses and certifications, and the issuance of fines and penalties.

101.3 These regulations do not apply to:

(a) Massage therapy practiced at athletic departments of any accredited school, college, university, or seminary or in connection with the conduct of professional athletics;

(b) Licensed massage therapists employed by an accredited high school, junior college, or college while engaging in the course and scope of their employment;

(c) Massage therapy provided in facilities connected with hospitals, surgical facilities, or medical doctor’s offices licensed pursuant to the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995, (D.C. Law 10-247; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01) (2007 Repl.); or persons under the supervision of a person licensed to practice medicine or surgery pursuant to the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995, (D.C. Law 10-247; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01) (2007 Repl.).

(d) Massage therapy provided in hospitals, clinics, nursing and convalescent homes and other similar institutions where these services are dedicated to medical or nursing practices licensed pursuant to the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985 Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 23, 1995, (DC Law 10-247; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01) (2007 Repl.);

(e) Health spas in bona fide nonprofit organizations or other licensed organizations whose limited offering of health spa services is incidental to the primary and lawful purpose of business; private clubs owned and lawfully operated by its members; organizations primarily operated for the purpose of teaching a particular form of self-defense such as judo or karate; any facility owned or operated by the United States or District governments; or any nonprofit public or private school, college, or university;

(f) Trainers for any bona fide amateur, semiprofessional or professional athlete, or athletic team while engaging in the course and scope of their employment; or

(g) Student clinic programs offering massage therapy on the premises of a recognized school of massage.

101.4 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance serves to spread communicable diseases or creates environmental health hazards. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

101.5 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to spread communicable diseases or create environmental health hazards. A part that is denoted in these regulations without an asterisk (*) after the head note, is a noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a noncritical item with a superscripted letter “N” following the provision.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL AND DISTRICT LAWS

102.1 The Department shall use these regulations to promote the safeguarding of public health and ensure that massage establishments and health spa facilities are safe and in compliance with Federal and District laws and regulations. The most current versions of the following District and Federal regulations are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) The District’s Construction Codes of 2008, consisting of the following International Code Council (ICC):

(i) International Building Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition;

(ii) International Mechanical Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition;

(iii) International Plumbing Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition;

(iv) International Fire Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition;

(v) International Existing Building Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition;

(vi) The NFPA National Electrical Code (2005 edition) or most recent edition;

(vii) The District’s Construction Code Supplement of 2008 or most recent edition; and

(viii) Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

(b) 29 CFR § 1910.1030 – Part 1910 – Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances.

102.2 In enforcing the provisions of these regulations, the Department shall assess the physical structure; operating systems, design, and operation and maintenance of equipment, furniture, devices, and fixtures of existing massage establishments and health spa facilities in use before the effective date of these regulations based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the facilities equipment, furniture, devices, or fixtures are in good repair and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition; and

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the facility’s operating systems, or equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies will be replaced as specified in section 1210.6.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING

25-D DCMR § 200 LICENSEE, MANAGER, AND MASSAGE THERAPISTS ─ QUALIFICATION, ASSIGNMENT, TRAINING, & POSTING*

200.1 The licensee or manager of massage establishment or health spa facility shall ensure that massage therapists working in their establishments are licensed in accordance with the District of Columbia Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-99; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.1) (2007 Repl..).

200.2 The licensee shall ensure that a manager of a massage establishment or health spa facility is on the premises during all hours of operations and is wearing a plainly visible name tag to identify him or her as a manager.

200.3 The licensee or manager of a massage establishment or health spa facility shall ensure that massage therapists are on the premises during all hours of operations.

200.4 The licensee or manager of massage establishment or health spa facility shall post a list of available services and the costs of such services at the front of the establishment that is visible upon entering the premises.

200.5 The services shall be described in readily understandable language and all letters and numbers shall be in capital letters not less than one-half inch in height.

200.6 No licensee or manager shall permit and no massage therapist shall offer to perform services other than those posted, or charge a price in excess of the costs posted for such services.

200.7 The licensee or manager of massage establishment or health spa facility shall ensure that all equipment used in a massage establishment or health spa facility is clean and in good repair as specified in section 402.

200.8 The licensee shall provide the Department with the names of all managerial personnel and massage therapists:

(a) Prior to operating or on the effective date of these regulations, whichever

occurs later;

(b) Within five (5) business days of a change in their employment status; and

(c) Maintain on-site at all times the following records that shall be readily available for review by the Department:

(1) Personnel files, including proof of completion of all training classes and certifications on all managers, massage therapists, and ancillary employees;

(2) Contact information on each corporate officer, director, and stockholder

as specified in section 1204.1(b)(1);

(3) Contact information on each partner as specified in section 1204.1(b)(2); and

(4) Contact information on registered agent as specified in section 1204.1(c).

200.9 All ancillary employees of a massage establishment or health spa facility, except the massage therapists, shall be trained to the extent necessary to safely complete their job duties within the massage establishment or health spa facility.

200.10 All employees that are directly involved in massage therapy or maintenance of the massage establishment or health spa facility shall be trained to recognize obvious health hazards and shall comply with section 200.11. Any employee encountering a health hazard shall immediately report it to the manager.

200.11 All employees directly involved in responding to biohazard events shall be trained in biohazard issues and handling in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards in accordance with 29 CFR § 1910.1030 – Part 1910 – Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances.

200.12 Copies of the following documents shall be conspicuously posted in a massage establishment or health spa facility:

(a) Certificate of Occupancy issued by the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs;

(b) Massage Establishment or Health Spa Facility License;

(c) Massage Therapists’ Licenses;

(d) Current Inspection Report;

(e) District-Issued Massage Establishment or Health Spa Facility Manager Identification Cards; and

(f) District-issued Massage Therapist Health Identification Cards.

200.13 Documents specified in sections 200.12(e) and (f) shall be removed when the manager or massage therapist is no longer employed by the massage establishment or health spa facility.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 201 LICENSE AND DISTRICT-ISSUED IDENTIFICATION CARD REQUIREMENTS ─ LICENSEES, MANAGERS, AND MASSAGE THERAPISTS

201.1 All licensees or managers of massage establishments or health spa facilities shall obtain a District-issued Massage Establishment or Health Spa Facility Manager Identification Card, issued by the Department, which shall be renewed annually.

201.2 All massage therapists shall obtain a District-issued Massage Therapist Health Identification Card, issued by the Department, which shall be renewed annually.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 202 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPISTS, BASIC KNOWLEDGE

202.1 Massage therapists shall have basic knowledge of:

(a) Anatomy, physiology, hygiene and manual and mechanical massage therapy;

(b) Proper procedures for sanitizing equipment;

(c) Emergency procedures to be followed in case of an actual or alleged injury;

(d) Recordkeeping requirements and maintenance of records; and

(e) Communicable diseases to protect the customers of the massage therapist and the massage therapist from the transmission of such a disease while engaging in massage therapy.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 203 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPIST, MASSAGE THERAPY PROCESS

203.1 Massage therapists shall:

(a) Provide only those services that they have the training and practical experience to perform, that are designed to benefit the health and well-being of the client;

(b) Deliver treatment that ensures each customer’s safety, comfort, and privacy; and

(c) Inform customers of the scope and limitations of massage therapy as specified in section 204.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 204 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPIST, CUSTOMER ASSESSMENT, AND INFORMED CONSENT

204.1 Before providing treatment, massage therapists shall:

(a) Inquire as to the health and current health status of each customer to determine indications and contraindications for the application of massage therapy;

(b) Assess the needs and expectations of the customer and designate a treatment;

(c) Obtain the written consent from the customer or parent or guardian of a minor after:

(1) Informing the customer as to the nature and purpose of the service to be provided; and

(2) The customer demonstrating an understanding of the terms under which the massage therapy is being provided and voluntarily agrees to receive such treatment by signing a Consent Form; and

(d) Respect the customer’s right to refuse, modify, or terminate treatment regardless of prior consent.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 205 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPIST, DRAPING AND DONNING GARMENTS

205.1 Before beginning a massage therapy session, each massage therapist shall explain to customers the purpose for wearing garments over and /or draping their specified anatomical areas, which include the human genitals, pubic region, anus, or perineum of any person, or the vulva or breast of a female, except as specified in section 206.4(c).

205.2 During the explanation specified in section 205.1, the massage therapist, may clarify, if necessary, what therapies and acts are prohibited and what the customer should expect during the massage therapy session.

205.3 The massage therapist shall demonstrate, while the customer is clothed, the expected garment donning and/ or draping technique.

205.4 Once the massage therapist is confident that the customer understands the reasons and methods for draping, the customer shall be provided with clean and sanitized garments and / or drapes and be given privacy to undress and perform the donning and draping as specified in section 205.6.

205.5 The massage therapist shall notify the customer when the massage therapy session is completed and provide the customer with the following instructions:

(a) How to don a robe and the location of the showers;

(b) Where to place the used drapes and towels; and

(c) What other amenities are available to the customer such as the sauna.

205.6 The massage therapist shall exit the therapy room to allow the customer privacy to don garments or their clothing, after complying with sections 205.4 and 205.5.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 206 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPIST, HYGIENIC PRACTICES DURING MASSAGE THERAPY

206.1 All massage therapists shall employ good hygienic practices while on duty in a massage establishment or health spa facility.

206.2 Massage therapists shall wash their hands thoroughly before and after performing each massage.

206.3 No massage therapist shall administer a massage or give treatment if they know or should know that they have any disease capable of being transmitted to another individual.

206.4 The massage therapist shall:

(a) Cleanse the exposed body part for applying treatment (such as hands, elbows, feet) before and after each treatment using a lavatory with hot water, followed by a chemical sanitizer skin product, if desired;

(b) Maintain a barrier of unbroken skin on the exposed body part used for applying therapy by using a barrier such as gloves, a finger cot, or cover the area if there is broken skin on the customer; and

(c) Cover areas of the customer not being treated at the time using sheets, towels, or draping to ensure that the specified anatomical areas remain covered for the duration of the massage therapy. With voluntary and informed consent of the customer, the massage therapist may expose the gluteal muscles, one side at a time, for treatment to the structures in those areas. Limited exposure of the female breast areas to access the chest wall muscular structures may also take place as long as the breast areola area remains covered.

206.5 A massage therapist, or any person who works in a massage establishment or health spa facility and who is exposed as part of his employment to any bloodborne pathogens or bodily fluids, shall practice universal precautions in accordance with 29 CFR § 1910.1030(d) – Bloodborne pathogens.

  1. 6 Massage therapists with an open wound, cut, sore, burn, or other skin injury capable of coming into contact with a client’s skin shall not practice massage therapy without covering the wound, cut, sore, burn, or skin injury with a suitable physical barrier such as a finger cot or a latex glove in accordance with chapter 4.

206.7 If a massage therapist has reason to suspect that an employee who assists in massage therapy sessions may have a communicable disease, the massage therapist shall require the employee be examined by a licensed medical professional prior to returning to work in accordance with chapter 4.

206.8 If a massage therapist has reason to suspect that a customer may have a communicable disease, skin diseases or other conditions posing public health concerns, the massage therapist shall:

(a) Deny the customer service and recommend the customer be examined by a licensed health care provider; or

(b) Cease a massage therapy session that is in-process and recommend the customer be examined by a licensed health care provider.

206.9 Massage therapists shall ensure that:

(a) All portable saunas, showers, tubs, basins, massage or steam tables, combs, brushes, shower caps and any other equipment used in the massage establishment or health spa facility are clean and rendered free from harmful organisms by the application of a bactericidal agent;

(b) Any equipment that comes in contact with a client of the massage therapist is cleaned with soap or detergent and hot water and is sanitized before the equipment is sued on another customer;

(c) All equipment, furniture and fixtures, including but not limited to tables and chairs used for massage therapy are clean and well-maintained;

(d) All electrical equipment used for the care of a customer is clean and well-maintained and is listed to applicable standards and requirements by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., or approved by another nationally recognized testing laboratory; and

(e) All hydrotherapy equipment is cleaned after each use, is well-maintained and is only used in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer of the equipment.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 207 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MASSAGE THERAPIST AND EMPLOYEE CLOTHING

207.1 Employees, including massage therapists shall wear outer garments that are fully opaque, and that do not expose their genitals, pubic area, buttocks, chest, or breasts.

207.2 The outer garments of each person engaged in massage therapy, handling bedding, linens, garments, or food in a massage establishment or health spa facility shall be kept visibly clean.

207.3 Employee clothing that has become soiled or contaminated with any bodily fluids during work shall be changed prior to returning to duty.

207.4 Soiled employee clothing shall be stored in a designated area away from clean clothing and other laundered items, as specified in sections 503, 504, and 505.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D3 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

25-D DCMR § 300 OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ MANUAL, CONTENT

300.1 The Department shall review the operating procedures and shall determine if the procedures are adequate. If the procedures are adequate, the Department shall approve the operating procedures, and the licensee shall adhere to the operating procedures in all respects.

300.2 The licensee shall maintain a procedure manual at the massage establishment or health spa facility which shall be available to the managers and massage therapists on duty at all times and the Department during inspections.

300.3 Each massage establishment or health spa facility shall maintain a list of emergency contact numbers appropriate for the community in which it is located. The list shall be easily accessible and shall include, but is not limited to, contact numbers for:

(a) The nearest hospital;

(b) The nearest fire department; and

(c) Emergency 911 service.

300.4 At least one (1) manager, who is not on duty as a massage therapist, is required on-site at all times when the massage establishment or health spa facility is in operation.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 301 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ GENERAL PROVISIONS

301.1 The licensee shall maintain all records at the facility for at least three (3) years or longer if required by any other applicable District laws or regulations. The records shall be readily available for review by the Department.

301.2 The licensee shall maintain documentation of the following:

(a) Each session of massage therapy, when practicable, including:

(1) The date of service;

(2) Service provided;

(3) Needs assessment,

(4) Plan of care,

(5) Observations made, and

(6) Actions taken by the massage therapist.

(b) If the customer was referred by a medical professional, records relating to the concerns of the medical professional, in case they want to conduct any follow-up of the massage therapy provided.

(c) Confidentiality of customer information, unless the information is required to be lawfully disclosed to the Department;

(d) Consumer consent forms as specified in section 204.1(c); or

(e) Documentation of parental consent for massage therapy, if the customer is a minor.

301.3 Records which are maintained by the licensee on computer systems shall be regularly copied, at least monthly, and updated on storage media other than the hard drive of the computer to ensure compliance with these regulations.

301.4 An electronic record shall be retrievable as a printed copy.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 302 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ MASSAGE SUPPLEMENTARY AIDS

302.1 Records shall be kept describing the vendors and sources of all massage supplementary aids used on customers within a massage establishment or health spa facility.

302.2 Product records shall be maintained and shall be available on the premises to the licensee, manager or massage therapist at the time of any inspection by the Department.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 303 RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ─ INJURY

303.1 The licensee shall submit to the Department a written report of actual or alleged injury from use of the licensee’s equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies within five (5) business days after notification of actual or alleged injury.

303.2 The report shall include the following information:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the affected individual;

(b) Massage establishment or health spa facility’s name, location, telephone number, license number; and name of the manager and massage therapist on duty;

(c) Identification of the specific equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies involved;

(d) Nature of the actual or alleged injury, including the date and any other information relevant to the actual or alleged injury;

(e) Name of attending physician, if applicable, medical attention sought and treatment;

(f) Copy of the individual’s medical referral and massage therapy records;

(g) Steps taken to prevent recurrence of future injuries; and

(h) All information requested on the Department’s Report of Injury Form.

303.3 The licensee shall maintain all records or reports pertaining to actual or alleged injury at a massage establishment or health spa facility for review for a period of three (3) years from the date of actual or alleged injury.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D4 EMPLOYEE HEALTH

25-D DCMR § 400 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF MASSAGE THERAPISTS AND ANCILLARY EMPLOYEES TO REPORT SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS*

400.1 The licensee shall require massage therapists and ancillary employees to report to their managers, in accordance with this section, if diagnosed by a medical professional of:

(a) Having a communicable disease;

(b) Are in a carrier state of a communicable disease;

(c) Having a boil or other infected wound;

(d) Has an acute respiratory infection; or

(e) Has a Staphylococcus aureus (or "staph") bacterial infection.

400.3 A massage therapist and ancillary employee shall report to his or her manager when he or she has any of the following symptoms:

(a) Vomiting;

(b) Diarrhea;

(c) Sore throat with fever; or

(d) A lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and is:

(1) On the hands or wrists, unless an impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall protects the lesion and a single-use glove is worn over the impermeable cover;

(2) On exposed portions of the arms, unless the lesion is protected by an impermeable cover; or

(3) On other parts of the body, unless the lesion is covered by a dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 401 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGER TO PROHIBIT AN EMPLOYEE WITH A SPECIFIC ILLNESS FROM BEING EMPLOYED AS A MASSAGE THERAPIST OR ANCILLARY EMPLOYEE*

401.1 A manager shall ensure that a employee who exhibits or reports a symptom, or reports a diagnosed illness as specified in section 400.3, is prohibited from being employed as a massage therapist or ancillary employee until the employee satisfies the requirements for reinstatement associated with specific symptoms or diagnosed illnesses specified in section 406.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 402 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGER TO EXCLUDE OR RESTRICT ILL MASSAGE THERAPISTS OR ANCILLARY EMPLOYEES*

402.1 A manager shall ensure that a massage therapist or ancillary employee who exhibits or reports a symptom or who reports a diagnosed illness as specified in section 400.3 is:

(a) Excluded as specified in sections 404, except as provided in section 406; or

(b) Restricted as specified in section 405, except as provided in section 406.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 403 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF MASSAGE THERAPIST AND ANCILLARY EMPLOYEE TO COMPLY WITH EXCLUSIONS OR RESTRICTIONS*

403.1 A massage therapist and ancillary employee shall comply with:

(a) An exclusion imposed pursuant to section 404, unless reinstated pursuant to section 406; or

(b) A restriction imposed pursuant to section 405, unless reinstated pursuant to section 405.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 404 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ CONDITIONS REQUIRING EXCLUSION OF ILL MASSAGE THERAPISTS OR ANCILLARY EMPLOYEES*

404.1 A manager shall exclude a massage therapist or ancillary employee from a massage establishment or health spa facility if massage therapist or ancillary employee is

(a) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea; or

(b) Symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea and diagnosed with an infection from a Norovirus.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 405 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ CONDITIONS REQUIRING RESTRICTION OF ILL MASSAGE THERAPISTS OR ANCILLARY EMPLOYEES*

405.1 If a massage therapist or ancillary employee is diagnosed with an infection from a Norovirus, and is symptomatic, a manager shall restrict the massage therapist or ancillary employee.

405.2 If a massage therapist or ancillary employee is ill with symptoms of acute onset of sore throat with fever, a manager shall restrict the massage therapist or ancillary employee.

405.3 A manager shall restrict a massage therapist or ancillary employee who is infected with a skin lesion containing pus, such as a boil or infected wound that is open or draining and not properly covered as specified in section 400.3(d).

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 406 DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION ─ RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGER TO REMOVE, ADJUST, OR RETAIN EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS OF ILL MASSAGE THERAPISTS OR ANCILLARY EMPLOYEES*

406.1 A manager may reinstate a massage therapist or ancillary employee who was excluded under section 404.1(a) for being symptomatic with vomiting or diarrhea if the massage therapist or ancillary employee:

(a) Is asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours; or

(b) Provides his or her supervisor with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the symptom is from a noninfectious condition.

406.2 If a massage therapist or ancillary employee was diagnosed with an infection from a Norovirus and excluded under section 404.1(b), a manager may restrict the massage therapist or ancillary employee after he or she has been asymptomatic for at least twenty-four (24) hours, and may reinstate the massage therapist or ancillary employee after the conditions for reinstatement specified in sections 406.3 have been met.

406.3 A manager may reinstate a massage therapist or ancillary employee who was excluded under section 404.1(b) or restricted under section 405.1 or 406.2 for a Norovirus if the manger obtains approval from the Department and one (1) of the following conditions is met:

(a) The excluded or restricted employee provides his or her manager with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the massage therapist or ancillary employee is free of Norovirus infection;

(b) The massage therapist or ancillary employee was restricted after symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea resolved, and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the massage therapist or ancillary employee became asymptomatic; or

(c) The massage therapist or ancillary employee was restricted and did not develop symptoms and more than forty-eight (48) hours have passed since the massage therapist or ancillary employee was diagnosed.

406.4 A manager may reinstate a massage therapist or ancillary employee who was restricted under section 405.2 for sore throat with fever if the massage therapist or ancillary employee provides his or her manager with written medical documentation from a licensed physician that states the massage therapist or ancillary employee meets one (1) of the following conditions:

(a) Has received antibiotic therapy for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection for more than twenty-four (24) hours;

(b) Has at least one negative throat specimen culture for Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection; or

(c) Is otherwise determined by a licensed physician to be free of a Streptoccoccus pyogenes infection.

406.4 A manager may reinstate a massage therapist or ancillary employee who was restricted as specified in section 405.3 if the skin, infected wound, cut, or pustular boil is properly covered with one (1) of the following:

(a) An impermeable cover such as a finger cot or stall and a single-use glove over the impermeable cover if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the hand, finger, or wrist;

(b) An impermeable cover on the arm if the infected wound or pustular boil is on the arm; or

(c) A dry, durable, tight-fitting bandage if the infected wound or pustular boil is on another part of the body.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D5 CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE, SANITATION, AND PREVENTING CONTAMINATION

25-D DCMR § 500 CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL ─ EQUIPMENT, MASSAGE TABLES & CHAIRS

500.1 Massage tables and chairs must be constructed with a smooth, cleanable, nonabsorbent surface, and must be cleaned and sanitized after each massage therapy session.

500.2 Linen storage shelves or cabinets shall be constructed of smooth, non-porous, corrosion, and water damage-resistant material.

500.3 Existing wooden or combination metal/wood shelving that do not comply with these regulations shall be sealed with an enamel sealing paint or clear coat and the shelves shall be maintained in an easily cleanable condition.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 501 CLEANING & SANITIZING ─ EQUIPMENT, TABLES, AND CHAIRS

501.1 All instruments, apparatus, equipment, tools, or appliances, and massage tables and chairs which are designed for multiple-use shall be cleaned and sanitized after being used on each customer.

501.2 All instruments, apparatus, equipment, tools, or appliances, and massage tables and chairs shall be wiped with a cleaning solution on all surfaces and then sanitized on any portion where the customer has made bare skin or hair contact including hand, head, and face rests, or feet after each customer.

501.3 All instruments, apparatus, equipment, tools, or appliances, and massage tables and chairs shall be sanitized by using an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. E.P.A.) registered sanitizer and in accordance with the U.S. E.P.A. approved label.

501.4 Massage establishments and health spa facilities shall maintain adequate supplies for cleaning and sanitizing of all instruments, apparatus, equipment, tools, or appliances, and massage tables and chairs.

501.5 Heavy white paper may be substituted for sheets to cover the massage table or chair for single use only. The paper shall be discarded into sanitary solid waste receptacle after the completion of each massage therapy session.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 502 MAINTENANCE & REPAIR ─ EQUIPMENT, FURNITURE, DEVICES, AND FIXTURES

502.1 The licensee shall ensure that all instruments, apparatus, equipment, tools, or appliances, furniture, devices, and fixtures, including but not limited to tables or chairs used for massage therapy, are clean and well-maintained.

502.2 The licensee shall ensure that all portable saunas, showers, tubs, basins, massage or steam tables, combs, brushes, shower caps and any other equipment used in a massage establishment or health spa facility are cleaned and sanitizer as specified in section 501.3.

502.3 The licensee shall ensure that any equipment that comes in contact with a customer of a massage therapist is cleaned with soap or detergent and hot water and is sanitized before the equipment is used on another customer.

502.4 All electrical equipment used for the care of a customer is clean and well-maintained and complies with current Underwriters Laboratories Inc. standards, or an equivalent nationally recognized testing laboratory.

502.5 All hydrotherapy equipment shall be:

(a) Cleaned after each use;

(b) Well-maintained; and

(c) Only used in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer of the equipment.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 503 SANITATION ─ LINENS & FURNISHINGS

503.1 All massage establishments and health spa facility shall provide a sufficient supply of clean linens for use by customers and massage therapists during the course of a massage therapy session.

503.2 All clean bedding such as pillows and blankets and linens shall be protected from contamination.

503.3 All clean bedding and linens shall be stored at least six (6) inches off the floor in shelves, compartments, or in closed containers such as storage cabinets, which are used for bedding and linen storage purposes only.

503.4 All linens shall be used on one customer only. No common-use linens shall be permitted and reuse is prohibited unless the linen has first been laundered using a sanitizing cycle.

503.5 Linens that are used during any part of a massage therapy session shall be immediately placed in a covered laundry receptacle to be washed and sanitized before use by the next customer.

503.6 Used linens shall be removed from the massage therapy room at the end of each massage therapy session.

503.7 Linens that are newly laundered and sanitized shall be used to recover cleaned and sanitized massage tables or chairs prior to providing massage therapy to the next customer. At no time shall linens that have made contact anywhere on one customer’s body touch another customer’s body.

503.8 Linens, such as towels placed on the face rest and/or on the seat of the massage chair or garments such as robes, to wear for an extra level of comfort and / or modesty that are used by customers receiving a chair massage poolside and wearing standard swimwear as permitted clothing, shall be stored and handled for laundering as specified in sections 503.4, 503.5, and 503.6.

503.9 Linens and garments that are found to be in poor condition shall not be used and shall be discarded and replaced with linens in good condition so that the damaged linens are not inadvertently laundered and reused.

503.10 Clean linens shall not be stored or transported in laundry bags, hampers, carts or other containers which have been used for soiled linen unless the licensee is able to demonstrate to the Department’s satisfaction that the containers are, or can be, properly cleaned and their surfaces sanitized.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 504 SANITATION ─ MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT OR HEALTH SPA FACILITY-SUPPLIED LINENS, AND GARMENTS

504.1 Each massage establishment or health spa facility shall provide customers clean, sanitary, opaque linens or garments capable of covering the customer’s specified anatomical areas.

504.2 Any garment provided for a customer to wear while waiting for or receiving massage therapy or making use of the massage establishment or health spa facility’s other amenities shall be washed and sanitized after use and before it is offered for use to another person.

504.3 Linens and garments that are found to be in poor condition shall not be used and shall be discarded and replaced with linens in good condition as specified in section 503.9.

504.3 Sufficient laundry hampers or storage bins shall be provided for customers to return garments and similar articles to the massage establishment or health spa facility for cleaning and sanitizing.

504.5 Laundry hampers or storage bins shall be clearly marked as containing used garments to prevent inadvertent customer reuse.

504.6 Used or soiled garments or similar articles shall be kept separate from clean ones while being stored.

504.7 Single-use slippers or sandals provide to a customer for use shall be brand new.

504.8 Single-use slippers or sandals shall never be reused for another customer and shall be discarded in an appropriate solid waste receptacle immediately following its use.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 505 SANITATION ─ MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT OR HEALTH SPA FACILITY, ON-SITE LAUNDRY FACILITIES

505.1 Massage establishments or health spa facilities that supply and launder their own linens and garments shall launder, fold, and store linens and garments in an area that is clean and well maintained.

505.2 Separate storage areas shall be designated for soiled linen and garments away from clean linen and garments.

505.3 There shall be an adequate hot water supply to on-site laundry facilities as specified in sections 605, 606, and 702.1.

505.4 There shall be an adequate number of washing machines, dryers, and folding tables to handle the volume of laundry generated at the massage establishment or health spa facility.

505.5 Washing machines and dryers shall be installed as specified in chapter 6 and shall be placed:

(a) At a minimum, on, a composite tile or other approved floor, with wall-to-floor junctures sealed with base coving;

(b) In a room with a minimum 50 foot-candles of light measured thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor;

(c) On adjacent walls with coverings of fiberglass-reinforced plastic paneling or equivalent where moisture is likely to occur; and

(d) In a room with an enclosed ceiling, finished with a cleanable surface.

505.6 The washing machine, dryers, and folding tables shall be maintained in good operating condition.

505.7 There shall be a handwasing sink, supplied with hot and cold running water and dispenser-fed liquid soap and disposable towels installed in the laundry room.

505.8 Prior to their next use, linens and garments shall be washed with soap or detergent and sanitized with a product labeled for that use.

505.9 Laundry that arrives in the laundry area, which has been exposed to a bio-hazardous event, shall be handled by the Biohazard Event Response Plan written for the massage establishment or health spa facility and all applicable regulatory requirements.

505.10 Laundered linens and garments shall be stored at least six (6) inches above the floor level in a clean, ventilated, illuminated, and well-maintained place until used to cover massage tables or chairs, or offered to customers to don or use for draping.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 506 SANITATION ─ THIRD-PARTY LINEN PROVIDER

506.1 The Department recommends a third-party linen provider be used to provide laundered and sanitized linens to massage establishments and health spa facilities.

506.2 When a third-party linen provider is used, then any linen, towel, and/or conveyances found to be dirty, stained, or otherwise in poor condition shall not be used and shall be rejected upon receipt and returned to the third-party linen provider.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 507 SANITATION ─ FURNISHINGS, USED BEDDING, AND PROHIBITION

507.1 No used bedding, upholstered furniture, or furnishings shall be recovered from any landfill, dump, dumpster or other waste disposal, junkyard, or hospital for the purpose of reuse in a massage establishment or health spa facility even after sterilization at an approved sterilization plant.

507.2 Except as specified in section 507.3, no licensee or manager shall sell, trade, give away, or otherwise allow the transfer of any used bedding from the massage establishment or health spa facility for use at any other location.

507.3 A licensee or manager may exchange furniture and properly-constructed massage tables and chairs that are in good condition between properties that are operated under the same management group, when such a need arises.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 508 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM CUSTOMER ─ SUPPLIES, PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS

508.1 Multi-use personal hygiene products such as lotion, hairspray, or body spray shall be dispensed from a container that prevents the contamination of the product by customers.

508.2 Multi-use personal hygiene product containers placed out for customer use shall be maintained in a reasonably clean condition and routinely wiped down with a sanitized wiping cloth.

508.3 If a multi-use product appears as if it were misused by a customer and is now suspected to be contaminated, it shall be discarded immediately.

508.4 The communal use of multi-use items that contact the body of a customer, such as stick deodorant, razors, or toothbrushes, is strictly prohibited.

508.5 Massage establishment or health spa facility shall provide only single-use/ disposable personal hygiene items to its customers if the item contacts the body directly during use.

508.6 Used single-use articles shall be discarded following use by the customers, except where the customers are permitted to retain the item for personal use once they depart the massage establishment or health spa facility.

508.7 If multiple-use articles that directly contact the customer’s body are offered in lieu of single-use articles, the multi-use article shall be retained by the customer of discarded in the same manner as single-use/disposable articles, regardless of whether or not there is a useable amount of product remaining in the container.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 509 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION OF ICE FOR CONSUMPTION

509.1 Ice used in a massage establishment or health spa facility shall be made of water that complies with Chapter 6 of these regulations.

509.2 The licensee, manager, or massage therapist shall adhere to a routine maintenance and cleaning schedule for ice machines.

509.3 Ice shall be handled, transported and stored in a manner which protects it from contamination.

509.4 Ice machines that are provided for direct use by customers shall be designed to dispense ice cubes automatically from a storage area, which is within the machine and is inaccessible to the customer.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 510 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM MASSAGE THERAPIST ─ MASSAGE SUPPLEMENTARY AIDS

510.1 Massage supplementary aids used for massage therapy shall be of high-quality and used only for the purpose indicated on the product label. Massage supplementary aids include but are limited to:

(a) Superficial heat (hot packs);

(b) Cold (ice packs);

(c) Water;

(d) Supplementary aids such as non-prescription, non-medicinal salts, or salt glows, powders, liquids, creams, rubbing alcohol, liniments, antiseptics, oils, lotions, ointments; or

(e) Other similar preparations commonly used in massage therapy.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 511 PREVENTING CROSS-CONTAMINATION FROM PRODUCTS ─ MASSAGE SUPPLEMENTARY AIDS

511.1 Massage supplementary aids shall be dispensed in a manner that prevents cross-contamination of the product, or the product dispenser shall be discarded between customers.

511.2 If the massage therapist picked up and touched the outside of any multiple-use massage supplementary aid bottle or container to dispense product while the massage is in progress, the supplementary aid bottle or container shall be wiped down with a sanitized wiping cloth between customers.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 512 PREVENTING CROSS-CONTAMINATION FROM PRODUCTS ─ MASSAGE SUPPLEMENTARY AIDS, COLD AND SUPERFICIAL HEAT THERAPY PACKS

512.1 Ice packs used for cold therapy shall be commercial grade and specifically designed for repeat use such as in a massage establishment or health spa facility.

512.2 Ice packs shall be wiped down with sanitizer at an effective concentration prior to reuse or storage.

512.3 Damaged ice packs or ice packs that have exceeded their useful lives shall be discarded and replaced.

512.4 Hot packs used to provide superficial heat therapy shall be commercial grade and be heated in a commercial heating unit such as a commercial hydroculator.

512.5 The use of domestic equipment such as food steamers to heat therapy packs or to steam towels is prohibited in a massage establishment or health spa facility is prohibited.

512.6 Steamed towels may be used only once and then shall be placed in the dirty laundry for washing and sanitizing. At no time should used towels be placed back into a steamer or hydroculator for reheating or reuse.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D6 DRINKING WATER

25-D DCMR § 600 SOURCE ─ APPROVED SYSTEM*

600.1 The only approved system for drinking water is the District of Columbia public water system.

600.2 A massage establishment or health spa facility shall not obtain water for its operations from a water system that is not the District of Columbia public water system.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 601 SOURCE ─ SYSTEM FLUSHING AND DISINFECTION*

601.1 A drinking water system shall be flushed and disinfected before being placed in service after construction, repair, or modification and after an emergency situation, such as a flood, that may introduce contaminants to the system.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 602 SOURCE ─ BOTTLED DRINKING WATER*

602.1 Bottled drinking water used in a massage establishment or health spa facility shall be obtained from approved sources in accordance with 21 CFR 129.1 − Current good manufacturing practice.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 603 QUALITY ─ STANDARDS*

603.1 Water from a public water system or potable water shall meet the requirements of the applicable provisions of 40 CFR Part 141 – National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

603.2 Potable water shall be used for drinking and sanitizing of equipment, furniture, devices, or fixtures.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 604 QUALITY ─ NONDRINKING WATER*

604.1 A nondrinking water or nonpotable water supply may be used only if its use is approved by the Department.

604.2 Nondrinking water may be used for purposes unrelated to massage establishment or health spa facility’s massage therapy including, but not limited to, air conditioning, fire protection, irrigation, plant and equipment cleanup, and other sanitary purposes.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 605 QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY ─ CAPACITY*

605.1 The water source and system shall be of sufficient capacity to meet the water demands of the massage establishment or health spa facility.

605.2 Hot water generation and distribution systems shall be sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the massage establishment or health spa facility.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 606 QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY ─ PRESSURE

606.1 Hot and/or cold water under pressure shall be provided to all fixtures and equipment that are required to use hot and/or cold water, except that water supplied as specified in section 608.1 in response to a temporary interruption of a water supply that is not required to be under pressure.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 607 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION ─ SYSTEM

607.1 Water shall be received from the source through the use of an approved public water main, or through one or more of the following, which shall be constructed, maintained, and operated according to the applicable provisions of 40 CFR Part 141 – National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards:

(a) Water transport vehicles; or

(b) Water containers.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 608 DISTRIBUTION, DELIVERY, AND RETENTION ─ ALTERNATIVE WATER SUPPLY

608.1 Water meeting the requirements specified in sections 600 through 607 shall be made available for a massage establishment or health spa facility with a temporary interruption of its water supply through:

(a) A supply of containers of commercially bottled drinking water;

(b) One or more closed portable water containers;

(c) An enclosed vehicular water tank;

(d) An on-premises water storage tank; or

(e) Piping, tubing, or hoses connected to an adjacent approved source.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D7 PLUMBING SYSTEM

25-D DCMR § 700 MATERIALS ─ APPROVED MATERIALS, USE*

700.1 A plumbing system and hoses conveying water shall be constructed and repaired with approved materials according to the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition, Title 12F of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, and the District’s 2008 Supplements, hereinafter referred to as the “Plumbing Code”.

700.2 A water filter shall be made of safe materials.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 701 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ APPROVED SYSTEM AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES*

701.1 A plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, and installed according to the Plumbing Code.

701.2 A plumbing system shall be of sufficient size and shall be designed, constructed, installed and maintained according to the Plumbing Code to:

(a) Properly convey sewage and liquid disposable waste from the premises;

(c) Avoid constituting a source of contamination to potable water, equipment and devices, or creating any unsanitary condition; and

(d) Provide sufficient floor drainage to prevent excessive pooling of water or other disposable waste in all areas where floors are subject to flooding-type cleaning or where normal operations release or discharge water or other liquid waste on the floor.

701.3 A plumbing fixture such as a handwashing facility, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable.N

701.4 Each massage establishment or health spa facility shall be equipped with effective plumbing and sewage facilities and adequate accommodations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 702 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ HANDWASHING SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW*

702.1 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms, shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100° F) (thirty-eight degrees Centigrade (38°C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

702.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

702.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

702.4 An automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 703 HANDWASHING SINKS ─ USE, NUMBER, AND LOCATION

703.1 Handwashing sinks shall be located to allow convenient use by employees in, or immediately adjacent to, toilet rooms.

703.2 A handwashing sink shall be maintained so that it is accessible at all times for employees’ use.

703.3 A handwashing sink shall not be used for purposes other than handwashing.

703.4 An automatic handwashing facilities may be substituted for handwashing sinks in a massage establishment or health spa facility that has at least one (1) handwashing sink.

703.5 An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 704 HANDWASHING SINKS ─ HANDWASHING CLEANSER, AVAILABILITY, HAND DRYING PROVISION, AND HANDWASHING SIGNAGE

704.1 Each handwashing sink or group of two (2) adjacent sinks shall be provided with hand cleaning liquid or powder.

704.2 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with:

(a) Individual, disposable towels; or

(b) A heated-air, hand-drying device.

704.3 A sign or poster that notifies employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 705 HANDWASHING SINKS ─ DISPOSABLE TOWELS, WASTE RECEPTACLE

705.1 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is supplied with disposable towels or suitable drying devices shall be provided with a waste receptacle as specified in section 805.3.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 706 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ─ TOILETS AND URINALS

706.1 Toilet facilities shall be provided in accordance with section 707 and the Plumbing Code.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 707 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ NUMBER, CAPACITY, CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY, PROHIBITION*

707.1 Each massage establishment or health spa facility shall maintain toilet facilities for employees, which shall consist of a toilet room or toilet rooms with proper and sufficient water closets and lavatories. Toilet facilities shall be conveniently located and readily accessible to all personnel.

707.2 Toilets and urinals provided for employees’ use shall be in accordance with the Plumbing Code. Urinals may be substituted for toilets if the substitution is approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and the Department.

707.3 The licensee shall, at a minimum:

(a) Maintain the toilet facilities in a sanitary condition that is clean and free of trash and litter;

(b) Keep the facilities in good repair at all times; and

(c) Provide self-closing doors.

707.4 A massage establishment or health spa facility that employs both males and females shall have separate toilet facilities for each sex; unless the massage establishment or health spa facility is specifically designated for one (1) gender or the other. This restroom may be located by itself, in a bathroom, or in a locker room.

707.5 When locker rooms are provided, there shall be both a male and female locker room available, unless the facility is specifically designated for one (1) gender or the other.

707.6 If the massage establishment or health spa facility serves only one (1) gender, a restroom shall be made available for employees of the opposite gender as specified in section 707.4.

707.7 Toilet facilities shall be deemed conveniently located and accessible to employees during all hours of operation if they are:

(a) Located within the same building as the business they serve; and

Accessible during working hours without going outside the building.

707.8 At no time shall the consumers or employees of one (1) gender enter the bathroom, restroom, or locker room of the other gender, except for routine clean-up after all of the consumers are gone or there is a maintenance emergency that cannot be handled by an employee of the same gender as belongs to the restroom, bathroom, or locker room.

707.9 Except as provided in section 707.8, restroom, bathroom, or locker room shall be cleared of all patrons of the opposite sex before routine cleaning or maintenance emergency commences by an employee of the opposite gender.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 708 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ TOILET ROOMS ENCLOSED

708.1 A toilet room located on the premises shall be completely enclosed and provided with a tight-fitting and self-closing door, except that this requirement does not apply to a toilet room that is located outside a massage establishment or health spa facility.

708.2 Toilet room doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 709 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ TOILET TISSUE, RECEPTACLE COVERED AND AVAILABILITY

709.1 A supply of toilet tissue shall be available at each toilet.

709.2 A covered receptacle for feminine hygiene products shall be provided, as appropriate, in accordance with section 709.1.

709.3 A toilet room used by females shall be provided with a covered receptacle for feminine hygiene products.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 710 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION, AIR GAP*

710.1 An air gap between the water supply inlet and the flood level rim of the plumbing fixture or equipment shall be at least twice the diameter of the water supply inlet and may not be less than twenty-five millimeters (25 mm) or one inch (1 in).

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 711 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, DESIGN STANDARD

711.1 A backflow or backsiphonage prevention device installed on a water supply system shall meet American Society of Sanitary Engineering standards for construction, installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing for that specific application and type of device.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 712 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ CONDITIONING DEVICE, DESIGN

712.1 A water filter, screen, or other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be located to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning. A water filter element shall be of the replaceable type.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 713 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, WHEN REQUIRED*

713.1 A plumbing system shall be installed to preclude backflow of a solid, liquid, or gas contaminant into the water supply system, including on a hose bibb if a hose is attached or on a hose bibb if a hose is not attached and backflow prevention is required by the Plumbing Code by:

(a) Providing an air gap as specified in section 710; or

(b) Installing an approved backflow prevention device as specified in section 711.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 714 NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE, CARBONATOR*

714.1 If an air gap is not provided as specified in section 710, a double check valve with an intermediate vent preceded by a screen of not less than one hundred (100) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25.4 mm) (100 mesh to 1 inch) shall be installed upstream from a carbonating device and downstream from any copper in the water supply line.

714.2 A single or double check valve attached to the carbonator need not be of the vented type if an air gap or vented backflow prevention device has been otherwise provided as specified in section 713.1.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 715 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE

715.1 A backflow prevention device shall be located so that it may be serviced and maintained.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 716 LOCATION AND PLACEMENT ─ CONDITIONING DEVICE

716.1 A water filter, screen, or other water-conditioning device installed on water lines shall be located to facilitate disassembly for periodic servicing and cleaning.

716.2 Fill-and-drain whirlpool spa bathtub pumping and recirculation systems shall be treated with an effective biocide and scale-reduction agent as recommended by the manufacturer.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 717 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ PROHIBITING A CROSS CONNECTION*

717.1 A person shall not create a cross connection by connecting a pipe or conduit between the drinking water system and a nondrinking water system or a water system of unknown quality.

717.2 The piping of a nondrinking water system shall be durably identified so that it is readily distinguishable from piping that carries drinking water.N

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 718 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SCHEDULING INSPECTION AND SERVICE FOR A WATER SYSTEM DEVICE

718.1 A device such as a water treatment device or backflow preventer shall be scheduled for inspection and service, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and as necessary to prevent device failure based on local water conditions. Records demonstrating inspection and service shall be maintained by supervisors.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 719 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SYSTEM MAINTAINED IN GOOD REPAIR*

719.1 A plumbing system shall be:

(a) Repaired according to the Plumbing Code; and

(b) Maintained in good repair.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 720 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ─ SERVICE SINKS

720.1 Service sinks and curbed cleaning facilities shall be provided in accordance with section 721 and the Plumbing Code.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 721 SERVICE SINKS ─ NUMBERS AND CAPACITIES

721.1 At least one (1) service sink or one (1) curbed cleaning facility equipped with a floor drain shall be provided and conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet floor cleaning tools and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 722 SEWAGE AND RAINWATER DISPOSAL ─ APPROVED SYSTEM*

722.1 Sewage shall be disposed through an approved facility that is a public sewage treatment plant or an individual sewage disposal system that is sized, constructed, maintained, and operated according to the Plumbing Code.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 723 SEWAGE AND RAINWATER DISPOSAL ─ OTHER LIQUID WASTES AND RAINWATER

723.1 Condensate drainage and other nonsewage liquids and rainwater shall be drained from point of discharge to disposal according to applicable District laws and regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 724 SEWAGE AND RAINWATER DISPOSAL ─ CONVEYING SEWAGE*

724.1 Sewage shall be conveyed to the point of disposal through an approved sanitary sewage system or other system, including use of sewage transport vehicles, waste retention tanks, pumps, pipes, hoses, and connections that are constructed, maintained, and operated in accordance with the Plumbing Code.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D8 DESIGN, CONTRUCTION, INSTALLATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF PHYSICAL FACILITES

25-D DCMR § 800 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ BUILDING MATERIALS & WORKMANSHIP

800.1 The licensee of a newly constructed, remodeled or renovated massage establishment or health spa facility shall ensure that the design, construction, building materials, and workmanship complies with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, or most recent edition, as specified in section 102.1(a) and this chapter.

800.2 The licensee of an existing massage establishment or health spa shall maintain in good condition the physical integrity of its massage establishment or health spa facility by repairing or replacing structural or design defects, operating systems, or fixtures in use before the effective date of these regulations in accordance with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, or most recent edition, as specified in section 102.2.

800.3 At least thirty (30) days before being construction or remodeling of a massage establishment or health spa facility, the licensee shall submit construction plans with all schedules, including but not limited to floor plans, elevations schematics, etc. to the Department for review and approval, as specified in section 1208.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 801 CONSTRUCTION & INSTALLATION ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

801.1 Except as specified in section 805, the floors, floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable, except that antislip floor coverings or applications may be used for safety reasons.

801.2 The floors in massage therapy rooms, on-site laundry areas, food staging or serving areas, in bathrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms, which are next to spas, whirlpool therapy tubs, bathtubs, showers or toilets, or any other wet areas shall be constructed of smooth, durable, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable material.

801.3 Every concrete, tile, ceramic and vinyl floor installed in an on-site laundry area, food areas, and areas in bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms, which are next to spas, whirlpool therapy tubs, bathtubs, showers or toilets shall be coved at the junctures between the floor and the walls.

801.4 All material used to cove the junctures shall be fitted snugly to the floor and the walls so that they are water tight and there are not openings large enough to permit the entrance of vermin.

801.5 Exposed utility service lines and pipes shall be installed so they do not obstruct or prevent cleaning of the floors, walls, or ceilings.

801.6 Exposed horizontal utility service lines and pipes shall not be installed on the floor and utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed.

801.7 The material used in constructing the walls and ceilings must be joined along their edges so as to leave no open spaces or cracks.

801.8 Massage therapy room shall be constructed and maintained to provide client privacy; and locks or devices that prevent easy entry or exit shall not be permitted on any door.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 802 CONSTRUCTION & INSTALLATION ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND CABINETS

802.1 Whenever evidence of significant water/moisture intrusion from any source if found within or on the walls, ceilings, attic spaces, crawl spaces, floors, carpeted surfaces, ventilation ducts, insulation, or other materials or areas which may promote the growth of mold, the source of the water or moisture shall be identified and stopped to prevent or reduce mold growth.

802.2 Whenever a need arises to conduct a large-scale mold remediation affecting more than 1,000 square feet within a massage establishment or health spa facility, the Department shall be notified in writing of actions to be taken.

802.3 All under-the-counter cabinets shall be maintained in a clean, dry, and structurally sound condition. If the understructure becomes water damaged, the cabinets shall be replaced.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 803 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTURES, COVED, AND ENCLOSED OR SEALED

803.1 The floors in a massage establishment or health spa facility in which cleaning methods other than water flushing are used, the floor and wall junctures shall be coved and closed to no larger than one millimeter (1 mm) or one thirty-second of an inch (1/32 in.).

803.2 The floors in a massage establishment or health spa facility in which water flush cleaning methods are used shall be provided with floor drains and be graded to drain. The floor and wall junctures shall be coved and sealed.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 804 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR CARPETING, RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION

804.1 A floor covering such as carpeting or similar material shall not be installed as a floor covering in toilet room areas where handwashing sinks, toilets, or urinals are located, refuse storage rooms, or other areas where the floor is subject to moisture.

804.2 If carpeting is installed as a floor covering in areas other than those specified in section 804.1, it shall be:

(a) Securely attached to the floor with a durable mastic, by using a stretch and tack method, or by another similar method; and

(b) Installed tightly against the wall under the coving or installed away from the wall with a space between the carpet and the wall and with the edges of the carpet secured by metal stripping or some other means.

804.3 The Department may prohibit the use of carpeting in any other area which it deems would be made unsanitary by the use of carpeting.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 805 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR COVERING, MATS AND DUCKBOARDS

805.1 The licensee, manager, or massage therapist shall inspect the premises prior to each consumer’s use to ensure that the floors are dry.

805.2 Non-absorbent and non-carpeted flooring or rubber or impervious mats shall be placed where the consumer enters and exits massage therapy rooms, dressing rooms, and toilet facilities. These mats shall be sanitized after each consumer’s use.

805.3 Mats and duckboards shall be designed to be removable and easily cleanable.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 806 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOORS, WALL AND CEILING COVERINGS, AND COATINGS

806.1 All walls, ceilings, doors, windows, skylights, other closures, fixtures and decorative material shall be kept clean and in good repair.

806.2 The walls of massage therapy rooms, bathrooms, restroom, locker rooms, toilet rooms, and food areas shall be smooth and easily cleanable.

806.3 In wet areas of the bathroom, the walls and ceilings shall be constructed of materials and have finishes that are resistant to water.

806.2 Except in areas used only for dry storage, concrete, porous blocks, or bricks used for indoor wall construction shall be finished and sealed to provide a smooth, nonabsorbent, easily cleanable surface.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 807 CLEANABILITY AND EXPOSURE ─ FLOORS, WALLS AND CEILINGS ATTACHMENTS, STUDS, JOISTS, AND RAFTERS

807.1 To facilitate cleaning, floors, workrooms, and passageways shall be kept free from protruding nails, splinters, loose boards, and unnecessary holes and openings.

807.2 Except as specified in section 807.3, attachments to walls and ceilings such as light fixtures, mechanical room ventilation system components, vent covers, wall mounted fans, decorative items, and other attachments shall be easily cleanable.

807.3 In public areas, wall and ceiling surfaces and decorative items and attachments that are provided for ambiance need not meet the requirements of section 808.1 if they are kept clean.

807.4 Studs, joists, rafters and beams shall not be exposed in bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, toilet rooms, on-site laundry areas, food areas, or in areas subject to moisture.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 808 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ MAINTENANCE, REPAIRS, FLOOR

808.1 The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair.

808.3 Every floor and floor covering, such as carpet, shall be kept clean and in good repair, sanitized or replaced so that it does not become a hazard to health or safety.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 809 PHYSICAL FACILTIES ─ MAINTENANCE, PUBLIC AREAS

809.1 All public areas of a massage establishment or health spa facility, such as the lobbies, and merchandising and retail areas must be maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, free of litter, rubbish, and nuisances.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 810 PHYSICAL FACILTIES ─ MAINTENANCE, CLEANING OF MASSAGE THERAPY ROOMS

810.1 Once a customer is dressed or has moved on to use other massage establishment or health spa amenities, the massage therapy room shall be prepared for the customer as follows:

(a) All used linens and garments shall be removed and placed in proper containers for laundering;

(b) Any single-use items such as used heavy white paper massage table covers shall be disposed in the proper solid waste receptacles;

(c) The massage table shall be cleaned and sanitized, then allowed to air dry;

(d) The massage supply bottles shall be cleaned and sanitized, removing any product on the container from being handled by the massage therapist. The supplies can then be replenished or replaced, as needed;

(e) Any tools and/or equipment that were used for the massage therapy shall be removed for cleaning and sanitizing and replaced, as needed;

(f) Clean linens and/or heavy white paper shall be made readily available to be offered to the next customer; and

(g) Any other cleaning or maintenance that is needed to render the massage therapy room ready for use shall be performed.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 811 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ LIGHTING AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

811.1 All rooms of a massage establishment or health spa facility shall have at least one (1) electrical source of light. Lighting luminaries and fixtures may be of incandescent, fluorescent, or high density discharge types.

811.2 At least fifty (50) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each area and the laundry area.

811.3 At least twenty (20) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each bathroom, restroom, locker room, toilet room or other areas when fully illuminated for cleaning.

811.4 An average illumination value of ten (10) foot-candles of light, but never less than 7.5 foot-candles of light shall be provided in other areas within a massage establishment or health spa facility, including massage therapy rooms, offices, lobbies, retail shops, and waiting areas.

811.5 The above illumination levels shall be attainable at all times while the massage establishment or health spa facility is occupied, except as specified in section 811.6.

811.6 Lighting may be dimmed for therapeutic reasons during a massage therapy session so long as there is enough light to safely see to conduct the massage therapy or to leave the room in case of an emergency.

811.7 No massage establishment or health spa facility shall be equipped with tinted windows or two-way mirrors in any room therein.

811.8 No massage establishment or health spa facility shall be equipped with any electronic, mechanical, or artificial device used or capable of being used for recording either audio or video activities, conversations, or other sounds in massage therapy rooms or any other room used by customers.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 812 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ SMOKE ALARMS

812.1 Each distinct area of a massage establishment or health spa facility separated by a doorway, whether or not a door is currently present, shall be equipped with at least one (1) working smoke alarm which is installed, maintained, and tested according to the District’s International Fire Code (2006 edition) or most recent edition, as specified in section 102.1(a)(iv).

812.2 The smoke alarm shall be free of foreign matter such as tape or paint which could impair its proper function.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 813 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ HEATING AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS

813.1 All bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, toilet rooms, and laundry rooms shall be adequately ventilated so that excessive moisture is removed from the room. Acceptable ventilation includes mechanical exhaust ventilation, a recirculating vent, or screened windows, except as specified in section 813.2.

813.2 Section 813.1 does not apply to rooms within a massage establishment or health spa facility that are intentionally humid, such as a steam room.

813.3 Each system for heating, cooling or ventilation shall be properly maintained and operational at all times when the rooms are occupied.

813.4 All massage therapy rooms, bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be capable of being maintained at a temperature between sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (68° F) (twenty degrees Celsius (20° C)) and eighty degrees Fahrenheit (80° F) (twenty-seven degrees Celsius (27° C)) while being used by customers, unless intentionally warmer for therapeutic purposes, such as in a sauna.

813.5 The use of portable space heaters is prohibited.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009); as corrected by Errata Notice published at 57 DCR 7899 (August 27, 2010).
25-D DCMR § 814 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANABILITY, SANITIZATION AND MAINTENANCE OF DRESSING ROOMS, LOCKER ROOMS, AND TOILET FACILITIES

814.1 All massage establishments or health spa facilities shall be equipped with dressing rooms and toilet facilities, which include a water closet and hand washing sinks, including hot and cold running water, pump soap, and a paper towel dispenser or equivalent hand drying equipment.

814.2 All bathtubs, showers, shower enclosures, shower curtains, steam rooms, saunas, spas, therapy whirlpool tubs, toilets, lavatories, benches, lockers, and/or other similar equipment shall be kept in good repair.

814.3 All bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and dressing rooms shall be kept in sanitary condition and good repair.

814.4 All surfaces of showers, shower enclosures and/or curtains, toilets, urinals, lavatories, countertops, benches and other fixtures which may come in contact with a consumer’s body within a bathroom, restroom, or locker room shall be cleaned and sanitized each day the massage establishment or health spa facility is in operation.

814.5 All other surfaces of the bathrooms, restrooms, dressing rooms, and locker rooms shall be cleaned and sanitized when visibly soiled or dirty, but at least weekly.

814.6 When being used by consumers, bathtubs, therapy whirlpool tubs, or similar equipment shall be drained and every surface which may come in contact with a person’s body shall be cleaned and sanitized between consumers.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 815 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ EMPLOYEE ACCOMMODATIONS, DESIGNATED AREAS

815.1 Areas designated for employees use shall be located so that equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies are protected from contamination.

815.2 Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be located in a designated room or area where contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies cannot occur.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 816 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ OUTDOOR AREAS, SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS

816.1 Outdoor walking and driving areas shall be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or gravel, or other materials that have been effectively treated to minimize dust, facilitate maintenance, and prevent muddy conditions.

816.2 Exterior surfaces of buildings shall be of weather-resistant materials, and shall comply with applicable District laws and regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 817 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ MAINTAINING PREMISES, UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND LITTER

817.1 The grounds surrounding a massage establishment or health spa facility under the control of the licensee shall be kept in a condition that will protect against the contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

817.2 The methods for adequate maintenance of grounds include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Properly storing or removing unnecessary equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used, removing litter and waste, and cutting weeds or grass within the immediate vicinity of the physical facility that may constitute an attractant, breeding place or harborage for vectors or pests;

(b) Maintaining roads and parking lots so that they do not constitute a nuisance; and

(c) Adequately draining areas that may provide a breeding place for vectors.

817.3 If the massage establishment’s or health spa facility’s grounds are bordered by grounds not under the their control and that are not maintained in the manner described in section 817.2, care shall be exercised by the licensee through inspection, extermination, or other means to exclude pests, dirt, and filth that may constitute an attractant, breeding place or harborage for vectors or pests.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 818 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING VENTILATION SYSTEMS, NUISANCE, AND DISCHARGE PROHIBITION

818.1 Intake and exhaust air ducts shall be cleaned and filters changed so they are not a source of contamination by dust, dirt, and other materials.

818.2 If vented to the outside, ventilation systems shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance, or unlawful discharge.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 819 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING OF PLUMBING FIXTURES

819.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and well-maintained.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 820 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANING FREQUENCY, STORING MAINTENANCE TOOLS, AND DRYING MOPS

820.1 The physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

820.2 Maintenance tools such as brooms, mops, vacuum cleaners, and similar items shall be:

(a) Stored so they do not contaminate equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies; and

(b) Stored in an orderly manner that facilitates cleaning the area used for storing maintenance tools.

820.3 After use, mops shall be placed in a position that allows them to air-dry without soiling walls, equipment, or supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 821 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CONTROLLING PESTS*

821 .1 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting incoming shipments of supplies, and laundered linen and garments;

(b) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests;N

(c) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control as specified in sections 1102, 1107 and 1108; and

(d) Eliminating harborage conditions.N

821.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its District licensed pest exterminator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 822 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, AND OTHER PESTS

822.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition or the attraction of pests.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 823 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ PROHIBITING ANIMALS*

823.1 Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas or service animals providing assistance to individuals with physical handicaps may be allowed in a massage establishment or health spa facility if the presences of the animals do not result in contamination of the massage establishment or health spa facility’s equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

823.2 Dogs, cats, birds, or other animals shall not be permitted in a massage establishment or health spa facility, except as provided in section 823.1.

823.3 Fish, in an aquarium, may be allowed in a massage establishment or health spa facility if the aquarium is maintained in a sanitary condition.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D9 REFUSE, RECEPTACLES, AND REMOVAL

25-D DCMR § 900 REFUSE ─ INDOOR STORAGE AREA

900.1 If located within a massage establishment or health spa facility, storage areas for refuse shall meet the requirements specified in section 906.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 901 REFUSE ─ OUTDOOR STORAGE SURFACE

901.1 An outdoor storage surface for refuse shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 902 REFUSE ─ OUTDOOR ENCLOSURE

902.1 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 903 REFUSE ─ RECEPTACLES

903.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse and for use with materials containing food residue shall be durable, cleanable, insect- and rodent-resistant, leakproof, nonabsorbent and maintained in good repair.

903.2 Plastic bags and wet strength paper bags may be used to line receptacles for storage inside the massage establishment or health spa facility, or within closed outside receptacles.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 904 REFUSE ─ OUTSIDE RECEPTACLES

904.1 Receptacles and waste handling units used outside the massage establishment or health spa facility shall be designed and constructed to have tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers.

904.2 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse such as an on-site compactor shall be installed so that accumulation of debris, insect, and rodent attraction and harborage are minimized, and effective cleaning is facilitated around and, if the unit is not installed flush with the base pad, under the unit.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 905 REFUSE ─ STORAGE AREAS, RECEPTACLES, AND COVERING

905.1 An inside storage room and area, outside storage area and enclosure, and receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the refuse that accumulate.

905.2 A receptacle shall be provided in each area of the massage establishment or health spa facility where refuse is generated or commonly discarded.

905.3 If disposable towels are used at handwashing sinks, a waste receptacle shall be located at each sink or group of adjacent sinks.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 906 REFUSE ─ STORAGE AREAS, RECEPTACLES, AND LOCATION

906.1 Refuse shall be stored in receptacles or waste handling units so that they are inaccessible to insects and rodents.

906.2 An area designated for refuse shall be located so that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created and maintained free of unnecessary items, as specified in section 817.

906.3 Storage areas and enclosures for refuse and waste handling equipment shall be located at a distance from the building that minimizes the entrance of pests and other vermin and shall not create a public health hazard or nuisance or interfere with the cleaning of adjacent space.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 907 REFUSE ─ AREAS, ENCLOSURES, AND RECEPTACLES, GOOD REPAIR

907.1 Storage areas, enclosures, and receptacles for refuse shall be maintained in good repair.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 908 REFUSE ─ OUTSIDE STORAGE PROHIBITIONS

908.1 Except as specified in section 908.2, refuse receptacles not meeting the requirements specified in section 903, such as receptacles that are not rodent-resistant, unprotected plastic bags and paper bags shall not be stored outside.

908.2 Cardboard or other packaging material that awaiting regularly scheduled delivery to a recycling or disposal site may be stored outside without being in a covered receptacle if it is stored so that it does not create a rodent harborage problem.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 909 REFUSE ─ REMOVAL FREQUENCY

909.1 Refuse shall be removed from the premises at a frequency that will minimize the development of objectionable odors and other conditions that attract or harbor insects and rodents and that protects against contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, supplies, water supply, or ground surfaces.

909.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the facility’s professional service contract which documents the following information:

Name and address of its District licensed trash or solid waste contractor;

Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of trash or solid waste collection services provided under the contract.

909.3 Trash or solid waste collection shall comply with title 21, chapter 7 of the DCMR.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 910 REFUSE ─ CLEANING RECEPTACLES, IMPLEMENTS, AND SUPPLIES

910.1 Receptacles and waste handling units for refuse shall be thoroughly cleaned in a way that does not contaminate equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies; and waste water shall be disposed of as specified in section 723.

910.2 Soiled receptacles and waste handling units for refuse shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to prevent them from developing a buildup of soil or becoming attractants for insects and rodents.

910.3 Except as specified in section 910.4, suitable cleaning implements and supplies such as high-pressure pumps, hot water, steam, and detergent shall be provided as necessary for effective cleaning of receptacles and waste handling units for refuse.

910.4 If approved by the Department, off-premises-based cleaning services may be used if on-premises cleaning implements and supplies are not provided.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 911 REFUSE ─ REMOVAL RECEPTACLES OR VEHICLES

911.1 Refuse shall be removed from the premises by way of:

(a) Portable receptacles that meet District law; or

(b) A transport vehicle that is maintained and operated according to District law.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D10 LABELING AND IDENTIFICATION OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-D DCMR § 1000 ORIGINAL CONTAINERS ─ IDENTIFYING INFORMATION, PROMINENCE*

1000.1 Containers of poisonous or toxic materials and personal care items shall bear a legible manufacturer's label.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1001 WORKING CONTAINERS ─ COMMON NAME*

1001.1 Working containers used for storing poisonous or toxic materials, such as cleaners and sanitizers taken from bulk supplies shall be clearly and individually identified with the common name of the material.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D11 OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES AND APPLICATIONS OF POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS

25-D DCMR § 1100 STORAGE ─ SEPARATION*

1100.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be stored and transported so they can not contaminate equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies by:

(a) Separating the poisonous or toxic materials by spacing or partitioning; and

(b) Storing poisonous or toxic materials to prevent contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1101 PRESENCE AND USE ─ RESTRICTION*

1101.1 Restricted-use pesticides shall be applied only by a certified applicator as defined in section 2 of the Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code § 8-401).

1101.2 Only the following toxic materials may be for use in the massage establishment or health spa facility’s operations:

(a) Chemicals required for maintaining clean and sanitary conditions;

(b) Chemicals necessary for plant and equipment maintenance and operation; and

(d) Chemicals necessary for use in the massage establishment or health spa facility’s operations.

1101.3 Toxic cleaning compounds, sanitizing agents, and pesticide chemicals shall be identified, held, and stored in a manner that protects against contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies as specified in this chapter.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1102 PRESENCE AND USE ─ CONDITIONS OF USE*

1102.1 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be used according to:

(a) The Pesticide Operations Act of 1977, effective April 18, 1978 (D.C. Law 2-70; D.C. Official Code § 8-401 et seq.), and these regulations;

(b) Manufacturer's use directions included in labeling, and, for a pesticide, manufacturer's label instructions that state use is allowed in a massage establishment or health spa facility; and

(c) The conditions of certification, if certification is required, for use of the pest control materials.

1102.2 Poisonous or toxic materials shall be applied so that:

(a) A hazard to employees or other persons is not constituted;

(b) Contamination including toxic residues due to drip, drain, fog, splash, or spray on equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies is prevented; and

(c) For restricted-use pesticides, contamination is prevented by:

(1) Removing items listed in paragraph (b);

(2) Covering items listed in paragraph (b) with impermeable covers;

(3) Taking other appropriate preventive actions; and

(4) Cleaning and sanitizing equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies after the application in accordance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1103 CONTAINER PROHIBITIONS ─ POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL CONTAINERS*

1103.1 A container previously used to store poisonous or toxic materials shall not be used to store, transport, or dispense equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1104 CHEMICALS ─ SANITIZERS, CRITERIA*

1104.1 Chemical sanitizers and other chemical antimicrobials as specified in section 501.3

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1105 CHEMICALS ─ CLEANING COMPOUNDS, SANITIZERS*

1105.1 Cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents used in cleaning and sanitizing procedures shall be free from undesirable microorganisms and shall be safe and adequate under the conditions of use.

1105.2 Compliance with this requirement may be verified by effective means including, but not limited to, purchase of substances under a supplier's guarantee or certification, or examination of the substances for contamination.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1106 PESTICIDES ─ RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDES, CRITERIA*

1106.1 Restricted use pesticides shall meet the requirements specified in 40 CFR 152.170 – Criteria for restriction to use by certified applicators.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1107 PESTICIDES ─ RODENT BAIT STATIONS*

1107.1 Rodent bait shall be contained in a covered, tamper-resistant bait station.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1108 PESTICIDES ─ TRACKING POWDERS, PEST CONTROL AND MONITORING*

1108.1 A tracking powder pesticide may not be used in a massage establishment or health spa facility, except as specified in section 1108.2.

1108.2 If used, a nontoxic tracking powder such as talcum or flour may not contaminate equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1109 FIRST AID SUPPLIES ─ STORAGE*

1109.1 First aid supplies that are in a massage establishment or health spa facility for the employees' use shall be:

(a) Labeled as specified in section 900 of these regulations; and

(b) Stored in a kit or a container that is located to prevent the contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1110 OTHER PERSONAL CARE ITEMS ─ STORAGE

1110.1 Employees shall store their personal care items in separate cabinets or storage lockers specified in section 814.2, except as specified in section 1109.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D12 LICENSE TO OPERATE OR TRAIN

25-D DCMR § 1200 LICENSE REQUIREMENT ─ PREREQUISITE FOR OPERATION*

1200.1 No person shall own, open, or operate a massage establishment or health spa facility, or provide access to massage services in the District without a valid massage establishment or health spa facility license issued by the Department.

1200.2 No person shall manage a massage establishment or health spa facility, or provide access to massage services in the District without a valid massage establishment license issued by the Department.

1200.3 No person shall manage a massage establishment or health spa facility, or provide access to massage services in the District without obtaining and carrying a valid District-issued Massage Establishment Manager Identification Card issued by the Department.

1200.4 No person shall render massage therapy services in or upon the licensed premises of a massage establishment or health spa facility in the District without a valid Massage Therapist license issued by the Department.

1200.5 No person shall render massage therapy services in or upon the licensed premises of a massage establishment or health spa facility for compensation without obtaining and carrying a valid District-issued Massage Therapist Identification Card issued by the Department.

1200.6 A massage establishment or health spa facility shall obtain a separate food establishment license or swimming pool/spa license issued by the Department for any food establishment or any swimming pool/spa that is operating at the same address or on the same premises.

1200.7 Massage establishments or health spa facilities that offer food on the premises shall comply with all applicable provisions of the District’s Food Code Regulations, Title 25 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and section 1200.6.

1200.8 Massage establishments or health spa facilities that offer food on the premises shall comply with all applicable provisions of the District’s Swimming Pools and Spas Regulation, Title 22, Chapter 64 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and section 1200.6.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1201 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ PERIOD FOR SUBMISSION

1201.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a massage establishment or health spa facility or the expiration date of the current license for an existing facility.

1201.2 Licenses shall be valid for a one (1) year period.

1201.3 License fees shall be prorated for licenses issued after beginning of the license period.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1202 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ FORM OF SUBMISSION, PROCESSING

1202.1 An applicant shall submit a written application for a license on a form provided by the Department.

1202.2 A new application shall be filed with the Department within thirty (30) days of any change in ownership or location.

1202.3 The Department shall not process applications for a change in ownership or location where administrative actions are pending against an existing facility that has not been resolved.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1203 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT, REVIEWS AND APPROVALS*

1203.1 The Department, with the assistance of the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department shall review each application to verify the application and the applicant’s qualifications as specified in sections 1204, 1206, 1207, 1208, and 1209.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1204 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION PACKET

1204.1 An application for a license to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility shall include the full name, address, and signature of the applicant, and the following information:

(a) The full and true name(s) or any other name(s) used by each applicant (hereinafter all provisions which refer to applicant include an applicant which may be a partnership or corporation);

(b) The present address and telephone number and social security number of each applicant:

(1) If the applicant is a corporation, the names and residence addresses of each of the officers and directors of said corporation and each stock holder owning more than ten percent (10%) of the stock of the corporation and the address of the corporation itself if it is different from the address of the massage establishment or health spa facility; or

(2) If the applicant is a partnership, the names and residence addresses of each partner, including limited partners and the address of the partnership itself if it is different from the address of the massage establishment or health spa facility.

(c) Name and jurisdiction of registered agent, if applicable;

(d) The location, mailing address and all telephone numbers where the business is to be conducted;

(e) The two (2) previous addresses immediately prior to the present address of the applicant;

(f) Proof that the applicant is at least the age of majority;

(g) Proof of good health required by the Department;

(h) One photograph of each applicant at least two inches by two inches (2(x 2(), fingerprints, and a list of the applicant’s occupation or employment for the three (3) years immediately preceding the date of the application;

(i) Driver’s license or Government ID and the date of birth of each applicant;

(j) Evidence of legal presence and employability in the United States, if the applicant is not a United States citizen;

(k) The massage or similar business history of each applicant; whether such person, in previously operated in the District or another city, county or state:

(1) Has had a business license suspended or revoked;

(2) The reason for the suspension or revocation; and

(3) The business activity or occupation subsequent to such action of suspension or revocation.

(l) Proof that the applicant has not been convicted of, pled guilty or nolo contendere to, or served any term of probation as a result of being charged with:

(1) A felony;

(2) A crime involving moral turpitude;

(3) Violation of a controlled dangerous substances law; or

(4) Violation of any law regulating the practice of a health occupation;

(m) The name and address (non-business address) of each manager, massage therapist, and ancillary employee who are or will be employed in the massage establishment or health spa facility;

(n) A description of any other business to be operated on the same premises or on adjoining premises owned or operated by the applicant;

(o) Authorization for the Department to seek information and conduct an investigation into the truth of the statements set forth in the application and the qualifications of the applicant for the license;

(p) Such other identification and information necessary to verify the truth of the information provided in the application.

(q) A complete set of construction plans including all schedules, e.g., floor plans, elevations, electrical schematics, etc; and.

(r) Proof of ownership or lease agreement for the property and buildings on which the massage establishment or health spa facility will be built or operated. If an applicant for a massage establishment or health spa facility license does not own the building where the establishment or facility would be located, the building owner shall submit to the Department a notarized statement approving the use of the building as a massage establishment or health spa facility.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1205 DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE ─ NOTICE

1205.1 If an application for a license or a renewal of a license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew a license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s right to a hearing and the process and timeframes for appeal as prescribed in chapter 18.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1206 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTING

1206.1 A massage establishment or health spa facility shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to operate at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

1206.2 A massage establishment or health spa facility shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

1206.3 If a massage establishment or health spa facility is closed for more than a thirty (30) day period, the massage establishment or health spa facility license and certificate of occupancy shall be returned to the Department and the owner shall be required to submit a new application as specified in section 1204 for the issuance of a new license prior to reopening.

1206.4 All licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, and current inspection reports shall be conspicuously posted within the massage establishment.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1207 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ NEW OR EXISTING ESTABLISHMENTS, OR CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR LOCATION

1207.1 Each applicant shall:

(a) Submit a properly complete an application packet provided by the Department;

(b) Submit a copy of any other operating and safety procedures unique to facility’s operation;

(c) Submit certification that the applicant has read and understands the requirements of these regulations. Such certification shall be signed and dated by the manager and the owner of the massage establishment or health spa facility;

(d) Pay the application and license fees;

(e) Submit proof of the Department’s review and approval of required plans and specifications as specified in section 1208; and

(f) Submit proof of the a preoperational inspection as specified in section 1209 has been conducted and shows the operation is built or remodeled in accordance with the approved plans and specifications and that the operation is in compliance with these regulations.

1207.2 If the applicant meets the qualifications as specified in section 1207.1 and the Department determines through its inspection as specified in section 1209 that the operation is in compliance with these regulations, the Department shall approve DCRA’s issuance of:

(a) A new license to a new massage establishment or health spa facility;

(b) A new license to an existing massage establishment or health spa facility that has changed ownership or location; or

(c) A renewal license to an existing massage establishment or health spa facility.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1208 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

1208.1 A license applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) The construction of a massage establishment or health spa facility;

(b) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a massage establishment or health spa facility; or

(c) Major renovation, remodeling or alteration of a massage establishment or health spa facility if the Department determines that plans and specifications are necessary to ensure compliance with these regulations.

1208.2 Plans required by this section shall include specifications showing layout, arrangement, and construction materials, and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.

1208.3 Plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee, shall be submitted at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a massage establishment or health spa facility.

1208.4 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of these regulations, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or licensee within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

1208.5 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply or be deleted from the project.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1209 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED INSPECTIONS, PREOPERATIONAL, CONVERSIONS, AND RENOVATIONS*

1209.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify and approve that the massage establishment or health spa facility is constructed and equipped in accordance with plans and modifications approved by the Department as specified in section 1208; has established standard operating procedures as specified in section 300; and is in compliance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1210 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE

1210.1 Upon receipt of a license issued by the Department, the licensee, in order to retain the license shall comply with sections 1210.2 through 1210.7.

1210.2 The licensee shall post a current license, valid Certificate of Occupancy, and a current inspection results in a conspicuous location within the massage establishment or health spa facility as specified in section 1206.3.

1210.3 The licensee shall comply with the provisions of these regulations and approved plans as specified in section 1208.

1210.4 The licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard exists as specified in section 1306.

1210.5 The licensee shall allow representatives of the Department access to its massage establishment or health spa facility as specified in section 1300.

1210.6 The licensee shall replace existing operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture that do not comply with these regulations pursuant to a documented agreement with the Department requiring the operating systems, or equipment, devices, or fixtures, furniture be replaced with an operating system, or equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furniture that comply with these regulations, except the Department may direct the replacement of existing operating systems, or equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture because the equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture constitute a public health hazard or nuisance.

1210.7 The licensee shall not engage any person to provide or administer massage services as specified in sections 1200.4 and 1200.5 until such person provides evidence that he possesses a current massage therapist license issued by the Department to provide such services in accordance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1211 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ LICENSE NOT TRANSFERABLE*

1211.1 A massage establishment or health spa license shall not be transferred from one person to another person or from one location to another.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D13 INSPECTION AND CORRECTION OF VIOLATIONS

25-D DCMR § 1300 ACCESS & INSPECTION FREQUENCY ─ DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL MISDEMEANOR*

1300.1 The Department shall determine a massage establishment or health spa facility’s compliance with these regulations by conducting on-site:

(a) Preoperational inspections;

(b) Unannounced routine annual and follow-up inspections; and

(c) Unannounced complaint generated inspections.

1300.2 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with these regulations, the applicant, or licensee shall allow the Department access to any part, portion or area of a massage establishment of health spa facility.

1300.3 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a massage establishment or health spa facility, including, but not limited massage therapy rooms, locker rooms, bathrooms, gym/exercise rooms, employee lounge areas, kitchens/food service facilities, or other areas of a massage establishment or health spa facility for the following purpose:

(a) To determine if the massage establishment or health spa facility is in compliance with these regulations;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the massage establishment or health spa facility is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency; and

(c) To investigate, examine and sample/swab equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

1300.4 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a massage establishment, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or licensee is required to allow access to the Department as specified in section 1300.2;

(b) Access is a condition of the receipt and retention of a license as specified in section 1210.5;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

1300.5 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in section 1300.2, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in section 1300.4(d), and the applicant, or licensee continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

1300.6 If the Department is denied access to a massage establishment or health spa facility for an authorized purpose, after complying with sections 1300.2 through 1300.4, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility in accordance with section 1608;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility in accordance with section 1613; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court, to enforce these regulations in accordance with the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)) (2008 Repl.), as amended.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1301 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

1301.1 The Department shall document on an inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the massage establishment or health spa facility’s legal identity, street and mailing addresses, inspection date, and other information such as status of the license and personnel certificates that may be required; or other inspectional findings; and

(b) Specific factual observations of violations of these regulations that require correction by the licensee including:

(1) Nonconformance with critical items of these regulations; or

(2) Failure of a licensee to correct cited violations, as specified in section 1302.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009); as corrected by Errata Notice published at 57 DCR 7899 (August 27, 2010).
25-D DCMR § 1302 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

1302.1 The Department shall specify on the inspection report form the time frame for correction of violations as specified in sections 1308 and 1310.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1303 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

1303.1 At the conclusion of the inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable provisions of these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1304 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

1304.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the massage establishment or health spa facility.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1305 DEPARTMENT RECORDS REQUIREMENTS

1305.1 The Department shall keep and maintain a record of each inspection made of a massage establishment or health spa facility within the District for a period of three (3) years.

1305.2 The Department shall maintain annual records of the following information:

(a) Total number of licensed massage establishments and health spa facilities;

(b) Number of inspections;

(c) Number of reinspections;

(d) Number of hearings;

(e) Number of license suspensions;

(f) Number of license revocations;

(g) Number and types of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies that did not meet the requirements of these regulations and were officially tagged or marked subject to condemnation orders; and

(h) Number of general complaints investigated or injuries alleged and the outcomes.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1306 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING

1306.1 The Department shall summarily suspend operations, or a licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department whenever any of the following conditions occur:

(a) Operating with extensive fire damage that affects the massage establishment or health spa facility’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(b) Operating with serious flood damage that affects the massage establishment or health spa facility’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(c) Operating with loss of electrical power to critical systems, including but not limited to lighting, heating, cooling, or ventilation controls for a period of two (2) or more hours;

(d) Operating with no hot water, or an unplanned water outage, or the water supply is cut off in its entirety for a period of one (1) or more hours in violation of sections 605, 606, and 702.1;

(e) Operating with inadequate water pressure to any part of the massage establishment or health spa facility;

(f) Operating with in sufficient water capacity to any part of the massage establishment or health spa facility;

(g) The massage establishment or health spa facility’s use of a water supply that is not approved by the Department;

(h) Operating with a defect or condition that exists in the plumbing system supplying potable water that may result in the contamination of the water;

(i) Operating with a sewage backup or sewage that is not disposed of in an approved and sanitary manner;

(j) Operating with a cross-connection between the potable water and non-potable water distribution systems, including but not limited to landscape irrigation, air conditioning, heating, and/ or fire suppression system.

(k) Operating with a back siphonage event;

(l) Operating with toilet and/or handwashing facilities that are not properly installed;

(m) Operating with the presence of toxic or noxious gases, vapors, fumes, mists or particulates in concentrations immediately dangerous to life or health, or in concentrations sufficient to cause an environmental disease or public nuisance;

(n) Operating with the presence of any unapproved pesticide residues in the interior building areas of a massage establishment or health spa facility, in food storage or service areas contained within the massage establishment or health spa facility, or in the presence of any food in the establishment; or in the presence of excessive restricted-use pesticide in any outdoor area of a massage establishment; or any evidence of the indiscriminate use of a pesticide or herbicide which may be injurious to the health of humans;

(o) Operating with the presence of any disease-causing organism in water exposed to the atmosphere which has caused or is likely to cause an environmental disease in the massage establishment or health spa facility;

(p) Operating with equipment that by condition, design, construction or use poses an immediate risk of entrapment, fall, puncture, pinch, crush, trip, or other cause of injury;

(q) Operating with environmental surfaces, including but not limited to equipment, furnishings, beds, mattresses, mats, massage tables, pillows, linens, robes, garments, chairs or other items within any room of a massage establishment or health spa facility that are stained with blood or bodily fluids, or soiled; or infested with vermin; or are in an otherwise unsanitary condition;

(r) Operating with any unmitigated biohazardous event that simultaneously involves more than one (1) customer, massage therapy room or a public area exceeding two hundred square feet (200 sq. ft.);

(s) Operating with gross insanitary occurrence or condition that may endanger public health including but not limited to an infestation of vermin;

(t) Operating with incorrect hot water temperatures that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of section 702.1;

(u) Operating with the presence and use of any used bedding which has not been sterilized or disinfected in violation of D.C. Official Code § 8-502(4), including the presence or use of any used bedding discarded and then recovered from a dumpster, trash room, alleyway, landfill, dump, junkyard, or hospital; or

(v) Failing to minimize the presence of insects, rodents, or other pests on the premises in violation of section 821 (a) through (d).

1306.2 In addition to the imminent health hazards identified in section 1306.1, the Department shall summarily suspend operations if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in 1300(a) through (c) the existence of any other condition which endangers the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to:

(1) Operating a massage establishment or health spa facility without a required license in violation of section 1200.1;

(2) Operating a massage establishment or health spa facility with an expired license in violation of section 1200.1;

(3) Operating without a valid Certificate of Occupancy;

(4) Operating a massage establishment or health spa facility for clandestine drug laboratories and related activities;

(5) Operating a massage establishment or health spa facility for prostitution;

(6) Failure of licensee to employ a massage therapist who is licensed in the District in violation of section 200.1;

(7) Failure of licensee to employ a manager of a massage establishment or health spa facility who is on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of section 200.2

(8) Failure of licensee to employ a massage therapist who is on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of section 200.3;

(9) Operating a massage establishment or health spa facility with six (6) or more critical violations that cannot be corrected on site during the course of the inspection;

(10) Failing to allow access to DOH representatives during the massage establishment or health spa facility’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by DOH in violation of section 1300.4;

(11) Hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized DOH personnel in the performance of his or her duty; or

1306.3 Operating in violation of any provision specified in sections 1700, 1701, or 1702.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1307 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

1307.1 If operations are discontinued as specified in section 1306 or otherwise according to applicable D.C. laws and regulations, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department before resuming operations.

1307.2 The Department shall determine whether a licensee needs to discontinue operations that are unaffected by the imminent health hazard in a massage establishment or health spa facility as determined by the Department or other District agency.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1308 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION*

1308.1 A licensee shall at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation of these regulations and implement corrective action as specified in section 1308.2.

1308.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed five (5) business days after the inspection, for the licensee to correct a critical violation of these regulations.

1308.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee to a condemnation order pursuant to section 1602, summary suspension of a license pursuant to section 1608, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to section 1613, civil penalties pursuant to section 1614, and judicial remedies pursuant to section 1616.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1309 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS─ VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

1309.1 After observing at the time of inspection a correction of a critical violation, the Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on the inspection report.

1309.2 After receiving notification that the licensee corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in the Department's records.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1310 NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

1310.1 The licensee shall correct noncritical violations by a date and time agreed to or specified by the Department but no later than fourteen (14) business days after the inspection, except as specified in section 1310.2.

1310.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in section 1310.1 if the licensee submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance.

1310.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to section 1613, issuance of civil penalties pursuant to section 1614, and the imposition of judicial remedies pursuant to section 1616.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1311 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

1311.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to section 1608 or suspended or revoked pursuant to section 1613 because of violations of these regulations, the licensee shall submit a written request for reinspection and pay the required reinspection fee.

1311.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the massage establishment or health spa facility within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

1311.3 A massage establishment or health spa facility shall not resume operations or remove from public view any warning or current inspection results as specified in sections 200.12 and 1204.3 until the Department has reinspected the massage establishment or health spa facility and certified that it is in compliance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D14 PREVENTION OF HEALTH HAZARDS

25-D DCMR § 1400 PREVENTING HEALTH HAZARDS ─ PROVISION FOR CONDITIONS NOT ADDRESSED

1400.1 If necessary to protect against public health hazards or nuisances, the Department may impose specific requirements in addition to the requirements contained in these regulations that are authorized pursuant to An Act To authorize the Commissioners of the District of Columbia to make regulations to prevent and control the spread of communicable and preventable diseases, approved August 11, 1939 (53 Stat. 1408; D.C. Official Code §7-131).

1400.2 The Department shall document the conditions that necessitate the imposition of additional requirements and the underlying public health rationale. The documentation shall be provided to a license applicant or licensee and a copy shall be maintained in the Department's file.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1401 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ OBTAINING INFORMATION, ILLNESSES

1401.1 When the Department has probable cause to believe that a licensee, manager, or employee of a massage establishment or health spa facility is suspected of transmitting a contagious disease; is infected with a disease in a communicable form that is transmissible through bloodborne or skin pathogen; is a carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through bloodborne or skin pathogen; or is affected with a boil, an infected wound, or acute respiratory infection, as specified in section 1400.1, the Department shall:

(a) Secure a confidential medical history of the a licensee, manager, or employee suspected of transmitting a contagious disease or making other investigations as deemed appropriate; and

(b) Require appropriate medical examinations, including collection of specimens for laboratory analysis, of a suspected a licensee, manager, or employee.

1401.2 If the Department has reasonable suspicion that a disease has been transmitted by a licensee, manager, or employee in the course of performing a massage therapy session, the Department shall conduct an investigation or examination as appropriate and take action as needed to protect and preserve the public health as specified in section 1400.1.

(a) Exclusion of the employee from the massage establishment or health spa facility as specified in chapter 4; or

(b) The immediate closure of the massage establishment or health spa facility as specified in section 1306.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1402 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION OF LICENSEE, MANAGER, OR EMPLOYEE OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE

1402.1 Based on the findings of an investigation related to a licensee, manager, employee or customer who is suspected of being infected or diseased, or a carrier of an infectious agent that causes a disease that is transmissible through bloodborne or skin pathogens, the Department may issue an order to the suspected licensee, manager, employee or instituting one (1) or more of the following control measures:

(a) Restricting the licensee, manager, or employee;

(b) Excluding the licensee, manager, or employee; or

(c) Closing the massage establishment or health spa facility by summarily suspending a license to operate in accordance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1403 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION ORDER

1403.1 Based on the findings of the investigation as specified in section 1401 and to control disease transmission, the Department may issue an order of restriction or exclusion to a suspected licensee, manager, or employee without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a hearing if the order:

(a) States the reasons for the restriction or exclusion that is ordered;

(b) States the evidence that the a licensee, manager, or employee shall provide in order to demonstrate that the reasons for the restriction or exclusion are eliminated;

(c) States that the suspected a licensee, manager, or employee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request as specified in chapter 18; and

(d) Provides the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1404 INVESTIGATION AND CONTROL ─ REMOVAL OF EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS

1404.1 The Department shall release a licensee, manager, or employee from restriction or exclusion as specified in section 406.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D15 NOTICES

25-D DCMR § 1500 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROPER METHODS

1500.1 A notice issued in accordance with section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one of the following methods:

(a) The notice is personally served by the Department, a law enforcement officer, or person authorized to serve civil process and service is made to the licensee, or person operating a massage establishment or health spa facility without a license;

(b) The notice is sent by the Department to the last known address of the licensee, or person operating a massage establishment or health spa facility without a license by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) For civil infraction penalties, the notice is provided by the Department in accordance with the procedures stated in section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1501 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION, CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

1501.1 An employee restriction or exclusion order, condemnation order or a summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in section 1500.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the massage establishment or health spa facility and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the licensee, or to the manager of a massage establishment or health spa facility, as appropriate.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1502 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ WHEN NOTICE IS EFFECTIVE

1502.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt or if service is made as specified in section 1501.1(b), at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1503 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

1503.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee, the person operating a massage establishment or health spa facility without a license, or an authorized agent.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D16 REMEDIES

25-D DCMR § 1600 CRITERIA FOR SEEKING REMEDIES ─ CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY

1600.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of these regulations if a licensee, or person operating a massage establishment or health spa facility, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license as specified in section 1200;

(b) Fails to pay the required fee as specified in section 1205.3(d);

(c) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in section 1210;

(d) Fails to allow the Department access to a massage establishment or health spa facility as specified in section 1300;

(e) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, orders, or warnings issued by the Department as specified in sections 1308 and 1310;

(f) Fails to comply with a condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(g) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter;

(h) Fails to comply with an order issued as a result of an administrative hearing;

(i) For any material false statement in the application for licensure;

(j) For falsification or alteration of records required to be kept by these regulations;

(k) For conditions revealed by the application or any report, records, inspection or other means which would warrant the Department refusal to grant a new license.

1600.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1601 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EXAMINING, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF EQUIPMENT, FURNITURE, DEVICES, FIXTURES, LINENS, & FURNISHINGS, AND USED BEDDING

1601.1 The Department may examine, collect samples, without cost, and test as necessary to determine compliance with these regulations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1602 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, OR DEVICE

1602.1 A duly authorized agent of the Department may condemn and forbid the sale of, or cause to be removed and destroyed, any equipment, or device found in a massage establishment or health spa facility the use of which does not comply with these regulations, or that is being used in violation of these regulations, or that because of dirt, filth, extraneous matter, corrosion, open seams, or chipped or cracked surfaces is unfit for use.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1603 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

1603.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the massage establishment or health spa facility, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Code and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the label or manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with chapter 18, which request does not stay the Department’s imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction, replacement or removal of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1604 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT, OR DEVICE

1604.1 The Department shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies that does not meet the requirements of these regulations.

1604.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies that is the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in section 1603 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1605 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, EQUIPMENT, DEVICE MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

1605.1 Equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies that are subject to a condemnation order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in section 1606.2.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1606 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

1606.1 No person shall remove the tag, label, or other appropriate marking except under the direction of the Department as specified in section 1606.2.

1606.2 The Department shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from massage equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee notifies the Department that the massage equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1607 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

1607.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee, or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies as specified in section 1501, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing on the condemnation order.

1607.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days of receiving a Department condemnation order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the condemnation action.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1608 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

1608.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility if it is denied access to the massage establishment or health spa facility to conduct an inspection, or determines through an inspection, or examination of operators, employees, records, or other means as specified in the regulations, that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1609 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

1609.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a massage establishment or health spa facility is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Code that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the licensee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with section 1610, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1610 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

1610.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in section 1608 by providing written notice as specified in section 1501 of the summary suspension to the licensee, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or prior hearing.

1610.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days after receiving the Department’s summary suspension notice. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the summary suspension.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1611 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

1611.1 After receiving a written request from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the massage establishment or health spa facility for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the request.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1612 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

1612.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through re-inspection or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been eliminated.

1612.2 The suspended license shall be reinstated if the Department and the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department determine that the public health hazard or nuisance no longer exists. A notice of reinstatement shall be provided to the licensee.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1613 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE

1613.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of these regulations shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued for a massage establishment or health spa facility pursuant to the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)) (2008 Repl.), as amended. When there is a history of repeated violations or where a license has been previously suspended, the Department may revoke a license, upon a showing of a subsequent violation.

1613.2 Before the Department revokes or suspends a license, the licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1614 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CIVIL PENALTIES

1614.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any massage establishment, owner or licensee, for violation of any provision of these regulations.

1614.2 The Department may impose penalties for violations of any provision of these regulations not to exceed $10,000 for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with these regulations shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)) (2008 Repl.), as amended.

1614.3 Civil fines or penalties imposed pursuant to section 1614.2 shall reflect the severity of the violation and the extent to which it creates an imminent threat to the public health. Maximum amounts shall be limited to egregious or flagrant violations involving gross negligence or carelessness resulting in injury which do not meet the criminal penalty standards in section 1616.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1615 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CIVIL PENALTIES, NOTICES OF VIOLATION OR INFRACTIONS

1615.1 The notice of violation shall state the nature of the violation and allow a reasonable time for performance of the necessary corrective action.

1615.2 If a person fails to comply with the time stated in the notice of violation issued pursuant to this section, the Department shall issue a proposed compliance order, or a proposed cease and desist order, which shall include a statement of the nature of the violation, afford the right to a hearing, allow a reasonable time for compliance with the order, and state any penalties to be assessed for failure to comply with the order.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1616 JUDICIAL ─ CRIMINAL PENALTIES, INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, IMPRISONMENT

1616.1 Any person who knowingly violates any provision of these regulations shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000), imprisonment not to exceed one (1) year, or both, for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with these regulations shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)) (2008 Repl.), as amended.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D17 PROHIBITED CONDUCT AND ACTIVITIES

25-D DCMR § 1700 PROHIBITED CONDUCT ─ ADVERTISEMENT AND POSTING*

1700.1 No person shall refer to the Department in any advertisement or posting that such person or such person’s establishment is licensed with the Department pursuant to these regulations.

1700.2 No person shall state or imply that any activity conducted by such person or such person’s establishment has been approved by the Department.

1700.3 No person shall claim in any advertisement or posting any medical or health benefits from such person’s massage therapy services, nor imply use of services as a medical treatment.

1700.4 No person or facility shall advertise or promote massage therapy service packages labeled as “unlimited”.

1700.5 No person or facility shall advertise or promote massage therapy or health spa services with nude images, images of scantily clad persons, vulgarity, or with any sexual overtones.

1700.6 No person or facility shall advertise or promote massage therapy or health spa services that are misleading in any way.

1700.7 No person or facility shall advertise or promote services that are not massage therapy or health spa services.

1700.8 No person or facility shall advertise or promote massage or spa related services without the massage establishment or health facility’s name, address, telephone number, and license number on the advertisement.

1700.9 Unless licensed to practice massage therapy in the District of Columbia as specified in section 200.1, no person or facility shall use or imply the use of words or terms “massage therapy”, “therapeutic massage”, “myotherapy”, “bodyrub”, or similar title or description of services, or use the initials “LMT” with the intent to represent that the person practices massage in accordance with the District of Columbia Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-99; D.C. Official Code 3-1210.03(v) (2007 Repl.)).

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1701 PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES*

1701.1 It shall be unlawful for any person who owns, operates or manages a massage establishment or health spa facility to knowingly cause, allow or permit in or about the establishment, location or facility any agent, employee or other person under his control or supervision to perform any of the acts specified in sections 1700, 1701 or 1701.2.

1701.2 No person in a massage establishment or health spa facility shall expose his or her own genitals, buttocks, chest or breasts, or any portion thereof, or cause to be exposed another person’s genitals, buttocks, chest or breasts, or any portion thereof of another person to a customer or other person.

1701.3 No person other than a District licensed massage therapist shall touch a customer or provide massage therapy services in a massage establishment or health spa facility.

1701.4 No person in a massage establishment or health spa facility shall expose their genitals, pubic area, buttocks, chest or breasts for the purpose of soliciting prostitution or other sexual gratification.

1701.5 No massage establishment or health spa facility shall employ, in any capacity, any person who is under eighteen (18) years of age.

1701.6 No massage therapy shall be performed on a customer under eighteen (18) years of age without a medical referral and a parental consent form.

1701.7 No massage therapy shall be performed on a customer that is visibly or noticeably intoxicated with alcohol or otherwise under the influence of intoxicating substances, including legal and/or illegal drugs, which appear to be impairing good judgment by the customer at that time.

1701.8 No alcoholic beverages shall be served in a massage establishment or health spa facility.

1701.9 No person shall enter or remain in any part of a massage establishment or health spa facility while in possession of, consuming, or using any alcoholic beverage or drugs except pursuant to a prescription for such drugs. The licensee or manager shall not permit any such person to enter or remain upon such premises.

1701.10 No massage establishment or health spa facility shall operate a school of massage, nor use the same facilities as that of a school of massage.

1701.11 It shall be unlawful for any person to perform any massage upon a member of the general public while on the premises of a school of massage. Instructors and students of such schools may practice massage therapy only upon a bona fide employee of the school or student. A dummy may be used.

1701.12 No massage therapy shall be performed on a customer that is contagious with a communicable disease. If a customer has a suspect skin affliction (skin fungus, infection, inflammation, eruption, or lesion) prior to massage therapy, the customer may provide to the massage therapist or establishment a written certificate from a medical professional stating that the skin condition is not communicable. Massage therapists are prohibited from treating cuts, wounds, or other such injuries, whether or not they are communicable.

1701.13 No massage therapy shall be performed by a massage therapist who is contagious with a communicable disease.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1702 PROHIBITED THERAPEUTIC TREATMENTS*

1702.1 The following therapeutic treatments are not within the scope of practice of a massage therapist and are expressly prohibited:

(a) Therapeutic treatments to the anus and anal canal, including but not limited to colonic irrigations and enemas;

(b) Therapeutic cross-gender breast massage; or

(c) Therapeutic perineal or vaginal massage.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D18 HEARING ADMINISTRATION

25-D DCMR § 1800 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ NOTICE, REQUEST FOR HEARING, BASIS AND TIME FRAME

1800.1 A person who receives a notice of hearing for an administrative remedy as specified in this chapter and elects to respond to the notice shall file a response to the notice within seven (7) calendar days after service.

1800.2 In response to an adverse administrative action, a licensee may submit a written request for a hearing to the Department within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of notice of adverse action.

1800.3 A hearing request shall not stay the Department's restriction or exclusion of employees specified in sections 1401 and 1404, a condemnation order as specified in section 1602, or the imposition of a summary suspension as specified in section 1608.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1801 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION – CONTENTS OF RESPONSE TO HEARING NOTICE, OR HEARING REQUEST

1801.1 A response to a hearing notice shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement as to whether the respondent waives the right to a hearing;

(c) A statement of defense, mitigation, or explanation concerning any allegation of fact if any;

(d) A request to the Department for a settlement of the proceeding by consent agreement, (if the Department provides this opportunity); and

(e) The name and address of the respondent’s legal counsel, if any.

1801.2 A request for hearing shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement of defense, mitigation, denial, or explanation concerning each allegation of fact; and

(c) The name and address of the requester’s legal counsel, if any.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 1802 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION, TIMELINESS

1802.1 The Department shall afford a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours after receiving a written request for a hearing from:

(a) A licensee or person who is subject to a condemnation order as specified in sections 1602; or

(b) A person whose license is summarily suspended as specified in sections 1608.

1802.2 A licensee or person who submits a request for a hearing as specified in section 1800.2 may waive the expedited hearing in a written request to the Department.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D19 JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-D DCMR § 1900 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

1900.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)) (2008 Repl.), as amended.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-D99 DEFINITIONS

25-D DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).
25-D DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

Acupressure – a method of stimulating acupuncture points by use of the hands or other instrument without piercing the skin.

Ancillary employees – all employees of a massage establishment or health spa facility including independent contractors (except the manager, or massage therapist) who work in the massage establishment or health spa facility but in no way touch the customer.

Board – the Board of Massage Therapy pursuant to the Qualified Massage Therapists Amendment Act of 1994, effective March 14, 1995, (DC Law 10-205; D.C. Official Code § 3-1202.15).

Biocide – an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered physical or chemical agent capable of killing microorganisms.

Biofilm – an assemblage of microbial cells attached to an environmental surface and enclosed in a matrix primarily composed of polysaccharides that is not easily removed by normal rinsing or water flow. Mineral crystals (scale), corrosion particles, clay or silt particles, may be present within or on the biofilm matrix.

Biohazard event – an event in which a biological agent, including pathogenic microorganisms and their toxins, causes a condition that may constitute a threat to human health and safety.

Biohazard Event Response Plan – a written plan developed by the business which contains detailed clean-up procedures by which massage establishment or health spa facility employees can safely disinfect potentially-contaminated environmental surfaces and control potential communicable disease outbreaks among customers and employees. The Biohazard Event Response Plan must also include procedures for which biohazard events are required to be reported to the Department and procedures for documenting response activities in a log book.

Chair massage – a massage administered by a massage therapist or independent massage therapist to a fully clothed customer’s neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, and /or feet utilizing a massage chair.

Clean – free from visible dirt, dust, sludge, foam, slime (including algae and fungi), bodily excretions or secretions, rust, scale, mineral deposits, accumulation of impurities, and /or other foreign material.

Colonic irrigation – irrigation or flushing of the colon for cleansing purposes by injecting large amounts of fluid high into the colon. Synonyms include colonic hydrotherapy, high colonic, and purging. This is a prohibited act in a massage establishment or health spa facility or by a massage therapist.

Communicable disease – any disease:

(a) Denominated a reportable disease pursuant to An Act To authorize the Commissioners of the District of Columbia to make regulations to prevent and control the spread of communicable and preventable diseases, approved August 11, 1939 (53 Stat. 1408; D.C. Official Code §7-131) (2008 Suppl), including any illness due to an infectious agent or its toxic product that is transmitted :

(1) Directly or indirectly to a well person from an infected person, animal, or ectoparasite; or

(2) Through the agency of an intermediate host or vector, or by exposure to chemical or radiological agents within the immediate environment; or

(b) Occurring as an outbreak of illness or toxic conditions, regardless of etiology in an institution or other identifiable group of people.

Customer – any member of the public, other than a licensee, employee, massage therapist, or independent massage therapist, either paying or non-paying, who uses the services of a massage establishment or health spa facility and / or with whom a massage therapist has an agreement to provide massage therapy; or any individual who is provided access to a massage establishment or health spa facility which is required to be licensed pursuant to these regulations.

Critical item – a provision of these regulations that, if in noncompliance, is more likely than other violations to spread communicable diseases or creates environmental health hazards; critical items are denoted in this Code with an asterisk (().

Critical violation – a condition or practice that violates these regulations that is less likely to spread communicable diseases or create environmental health hazards; noncritical items are denoted with a superscripted letter “N” following the provision.

Cross contamination – the transfer of harmful pathogenic microorganisms from dirty surfaces or equipment to previously sanitized or sterilized surfaces or, equipment, or products.

Department – the District of Columbia Department of Health.

Disinfect – to carry out a process that kills most or significantly reduces pathogenic microorganisms.

Disinfectant – an EPA-registered antimicrobial agent, such as a chemical, or heat that destroys, neutralizes, or inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. All chemical disinfectants must provide a strength equivalent to at least 50 ppm of free available chlorine at a pH of 7.0 to 7.6 in their normal use concentration.

Disposable article – an item which is made wholly or in part from a synthetic or other readily destructible material and which is intended to be discarded after a single use.

Drape – a towel, gown, sheet, blanket, or any similar item used to cover clients while massage therapy is being delivered.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-Registered – any chemical or substances, including, sanitizers, sterilizers, biocides, or other substances, which must be registered with the United States EPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) prior to their distribution and use by industry and consumers.

Environmental surface – the surface of any furniture, equipment, fixture, wall, floors, ceilings, bathtubs, showers or similar surface which is part of a massage establishment.

External bath – includes, but is not limited to, spas, showers, spa pools, tub baths, saunas and steam baths. Areas where external baths are given are considered spa bathrooms.

Fill-and-drain therapy whirlpool tub – a tub designed to re-circulate water through a mechanically-pumped self-contained system, and expel the water back into the tub or into targeted areas of the human body for therapeutic reasons, and is intended to be drained and sanitized after each individual customer’s use.

Furniture – the movable articles in a lobby, massage therapy room, locker room or public area that make the area fit for its intended use. Furniture includes but is not limited to, tables, chairs, sofas, carpets, curtains, pictures, vases, mirrors, televisions and other electrical equipment, and appliances. Bedding and massage tables are not considered to be furniture.

Garment – a gown, robe, or other apparel that is provided to a customer of a massage establishment or health spa facility to maintain modesty of the specified anatomical area in an establishment.

Handwashing sink – a lavatory, a basin or vessel for washing, a wash basin, or a plumbing fixture especially placed for use in personal hygiene and designed for the washing of hands; and includes an automatic handwashing facility.

Hazard – a biological, chemical, or physical property that may cause an unacceptable consumer health risk.

Health care professional – a physician licensed to practice medicine, or if allowed by law, a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or similar medical professional.

Health spa – any establishment providing physical exercise, physical fitness, weight control or figure reduction including the use of a whirlpool, weight lifting room, steam room, exercising room, or exercising or weight loss device.

Imminent health hazard – a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury.

Independent massage therapist – a massage therapist who is not an employee of a massage establishment, who is a sole practitioner, and hires no employees. An independent massage therapist may work within a massage establishment or health spa facility while under contract to do so and must independently maintain all required licenses and certifications and District-issued Identification.

Individual – any human being.

Injury – bodily harm resulting from the use of a massage device which requires medical attention.

Inspection – an official examination or observation, including but not limited to tests, surveys, and monitoring to determine compliance with rules, regulations, Department orders, requirements, and conditions.

License – a permit issued by the Director that authorizes a person to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility.

Licensee – a person who is legally responsible for the operation of the massage establishment or health spa facility, such as the owner, the owner's agent, or other person, and who either possesses a valid license issued by the DCRA to operate a massage establishment or health spa facility, or is required to possess a massage establishment or health spa facility license.

Linens – includes sheets, mattress covers, blankets, pillows cases, drapes, towels, or any other similar item used to cover a massage table, mat, or mattress, or customer during a massage therapy session.

Manual – use of hands or body.

Massage – the treatment of the external parts of the human body for comfort or the general well-being of the body, consisting of rubbing, stroking, kneading, tapping or vibrating one or more parts of the body with hand, or any instrument, for compensation.

Massage chair – comes in tow (2) main types: (1) traditional massage chairs are ergonomically designed for positioning a person who will be receiving a massage, similar in function to a massage table and (2) robotic massage chair that contains internal electronic motors and gears designed to massage the person sitting in them.

Massage establishment or health spa facility – any establishment in the city where massages are provided or administered, or which holds itself out to the public as a place where massages are provided or administered, including massage therapy areas within a hotel, resort hotel, health club, or fitness center; provided, that this definition shall not include a hospital, nursing home or medical clinic, a care facility, the office of a duly licensed physician, surgeon, physical therapist, chiropractor or osteopath, barbershop or a beauty salon.

Massage table – a table that is specifically designed to safely accommodate the comfort of a customer receiving massage therapy, as well as to provide the massage therapist a comfortable standing height and accessibility to all parts of the customer which will be massaged. Depending on the therapeutic modality used by the massage therapist, other surfaces such as a mat, mattress platform, or pad, may be used. For the purposes of these regulations, any similar surface on which massage therapy is performed shall be referred to as a massage table.

Massage techniques – any touching or pressure with the intent of providing healing or therapeutic benefits through soft tissue manipulation. Massage techniques include, but are not limited to, Rolfing, Neuromuscular Therapy, Shiatsu or acupressure, Trigger Point massage, Trager, Tui na, Reflexology, Thai Massage, deep tissue massage, Myofascial Release, Lymphatic Drainage, Craniosacral, Polarity, Reiki, Swedish Massage, and Therapeutic Touch. Massage techniques may be performed in any postural position, including seated massage and techniques performed on clothed clients.

Massage therapy – the performance of therapeutic maneuvers in which the practitioner applies massage techniques, including use of the hand or limb to apply touch and pressure to the human body through tapping, stroking, kneading, compression, friction, stretching, vibrating, holding, positioning, or causing movement of an individual’s body to positively affect the health and well-being of the individual; as defined in D.C. Official Code § 3-1201.02(6B)(A); and

(a) Includes the use of adjunctive therapies, which are defined as including the application of heat, cold, water, and mild abrasives; and

(b) The term adjunctive therapies do not include galvanic stimulation, ultra sound, Doppler vascularizers, diathermy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or traction.

Massage therapy room – a room, booth, partitioned section, enclosure or other area within a massage establishment or health spa facility where massage therapy can be performed; provides sufficiency privacy for customers to don and doff their drapes or garments without being viewed by other customers, employees, or the public by any means, including electronic means or mirrors; and have locks or other means that allow for easy entry and /or exit by the customer.

Mechanical – any tool or device that mimics or enhances the actions possible by the hands.

Medical professional – a licensed, certified or registered provider of health care such as a physician, physician assistant, osteopathic physician, advanced practitioner of nursing, registered nurse, podiatric physician, or a licensed hospital as the employer of any such person.

Minor – any individual less than eighteen (18) years of age.

Nuisance – anything which is injurious to health or offensive to the senses, so as to interfere with the comfort or endanger the health or safety of the public.

Outbreak – the occurrence of cases of a communicable disease in a community, geographic region or particular population at a rate in excess of that which is normally expected in that community, geographic region or particular population.

Pathogenic – the ability to produce disease.

Perineal massage – a technique used to increase the elasticity and tone of the perineal tissues in preparation for childbirth.

Person – an association, a corporation, individual, partnership, trustee, government or governmental subdivision, or other legal entity.

Personal hygiene items – articles such as bars of soap, bath gel, bubble bath, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, mouthwash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, cotton swabs, cotton balls, razors, shaving cream, emery boards, combs, brushes, tweezers, feminine hygiene products, powder, etc. which are used for personal cleanliness and /or grooming.

Public area – any area open to public view, whether indoors or outdoors to which the public has approved access, excluding individual massage therapy rooms, locker rooms, bathrooms, or restrooms at a massage establishment.

Recognized School (of massage) – any school or educational institution licensed to do business as a school or educational institution in the state where it is located which is recognized by the District and is accredited by one (1) or more of the following agencies:

(a) The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology;

(b) The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training;

(c) The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA);

(d) National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB);

(e) The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation;

(f) The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools; or

(g) Any other nationally recognized accrediting organization of similar stature, and which has for its purpose, the teaching of the theory, method, profession, and work of massage, including anatomy, ethics, hygiene, and physiology, and which requires the successful completion of an in-class course, typically a minimum of 500 hours, before the student shall be furnished with a diploma or certificate of graduation.

Refuse – solid waste not carried by water through the sewage system.

Sanitized – the treatment of equipment and surfaces that can be accessed by the public with a biocide by a process which has been approved by the Department as being effective in destroying pathogenic microorganisms of public health concern.

Sanitization – the effective bactericidal treatment of surfaces of equipment and devices by an EPA-registered product which provides a sufficient concentration of chemicals, allowing enough time to reduce the bacterial count, including pathogens, to a safe level. Chemical germicides that are registered with the EPA as hospital disinfectants, when used at recommended dilutions and directions, may be approved for sanitizing massage establishment or health spa facility equipment and devices.

Sauna – a bathroom or room, usually of wood, equipped for providing a bath that uses dry heat to induce perspiration, and in which steam is produced by pouring water on heated stones.

Seated massage – any massage provided to the human body while the massage recipient is seated, including massage and techniques performed on clothed clients.

Service animal – an animal such as a guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.

Soft tissue – skin, adipose, muscle, and myofascial tissues.

Spa – a pool primarily designed for therapeutic use which is not drained, cleaned or refilled for each user. The term includes units which employ hydroject circulation, hot water, cold water, mineral water, air induction bubbles or combinations of them.

Spa room – a room, including but not limited to a healing room, treatment room, or other similar name, that contain a spa pool, therapy whirlpool tub, bathtub, shower, sauna, steam room, or any combination of these, and may possibly include portions of or be adjoined to a locker room as well as a toilet and lavatory (restroom).

Specified anatomical areas – include the human genitals, pubic region, anus, or perineum of any person, or the vulva or breast of a female.

Steam room – a room designed to produce steam and heat to induce sweating, as in a steam bath or Turkish bath.

Sterilization – destruction of all forms of microbial life including and fungal spores.

Tub bath – a bath where the bather’s body is dipped or soaked in a body of water. The water is then drained and the tub refilled for the next bather.

Used bedding – any mattress, box spring, cot, futon, bed sheet, mattress pad, blanket, bedspread, comforter, quilt, dust ruffle, pillow, pillow case, cushion, or other materials used in the filling of any of the above or similar articles which has been previously used prior to receipt by the responsible person in charge of a massage establishment.

History

  • Source: Final Rulemaking published at 56 DCR 7975 (October 9, 2009).

25-E BARBERING, COSMETOLOGY, AND PERSONAL GROOMING FACILITY REGULATIONS

25-E1 TITLE, INTENT, AND SCOPE

25-E DCMR § 100 TITLE ─ BARBER, COSMETOLOGY, AND PERSONAL GROOMING FACILITIES REGULATIONS (BARBER SHOPS, BEAUTY SHOPS, AND NAIL SALONS)

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Barber, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facilities Regulations (Barber Shops, Beauty Shops, and Nail Salons) hereinafter referred to as “this Subtitle.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 100
25-E DCMR § 101 INTENT ─ SAFETY

101.1 The purpose of this Subtitle is to prevent disease, sanitary nuisances, and accidents that threaten or impair the public’s health and safety, and to prevent any modifications that result in unsanitary operations or danger to public health or safety.

101.2 This Subtitle:

(a) Establishes minimum standards for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities;

(b) Establishes minimum operational standards for sterilization, sanitation, cleaning and safety of the establishment, equipment, supplies, and work surface areas;

(c) Set standards for maintenance and replacement of supplies, equipment, and operational systems;

(d) Establishes recordkeeping and reporting requirements;

(e) Establishes prohibited conduct within barber, cosmetology, and personal

grooming facilities;

(f) Establishes licensing requirements, and associated fee schedules;

(g) Provides for enforcement through inspections, summary suspensions, suspension, and revocation of licenses, including the examination, embargo, or condemnation of unsanitary equipment, disposable and non-disposable equipment, single-use products, wipes, gloves, linens, supplies, ointments, and disinfectants;

(h) Establishes fines and penalties; and

(i) Establishes definitions for this Subtitle.

101.3 This Subtitle shall not apply to:

(a) Persons licensed pursuant to § 501 of the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985, effective March 2, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-99; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01), as defined in this Subtitle;

(b) Laser hair removal performed in medical settings by or under the supervision of persons licensed pursuant to § 501 of the Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985, effective March 2, 1986, (D.C. Law 6-99; D.C. Official Code § 3-1205.01), as defined in this Subtitle;

(c) Retail establishments’ application of cosmetic products to another person in connection with the sale, or attempted sale, of such products without compensation from such other person other than the regular retail price of such merchandise; or

(d) A license is not required of any individual providing makeup, special effects, or cosmetology services to an actor, stunt person, musician, extra, or other talent as a “qualified production” defined in the “Film DC Economic Incentive Act of 2006”, effective March 14, 2007 (DC Law 16-290; D.C. Official Code § 2-1204.11.c (9)). Such services are not required to be performed in a licensed salon. Individuals exempt under this subsection may not provide such services to the public.

101.4 Certain provisions of this Subtitle are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance may result in a health hazard. A headnote that is denoted in this Subtitle as “(Critical Section)” is a critical item.

101.5 Certain provisions of this Subtitle are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are nuance items where noncompliance is less likely to result in a health hazard. A headnote that is denoted in this Subtitle as “(Non-critical subsection)” is a

noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a “(Non-critical subsection)” following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 101
25-E DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL AND DISTRICT LAWS (Critical Section)

102.1 The following District and federal laws and regulations shall apply to barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities:

(a) 29 C.F.R. Part 1910 (Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances);

(b) 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030(d) – Bloodborne Pathogen Standard;

(c) 29 C.F.R. § 1910.134 (Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Respiratory Protection Standard);

(d) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Hand Washing Guidelines, updated January 27, 2016;

(e) DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations – 17 DCMR Chapter 37;

(f) 2009 ICC/ANSI 1117.1 – Accessible and Usable Building Facilities; and

(g) Most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes and the District of Columbia Construction Code Supplements in Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR) which consist of the 2015 International Code Council (ICC) family of model codes, the 2014 National Electrical Code and 2013 ASHRAE 90.1, as amended by the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR) Title 12, Subtitles A through M, specifically:

(1) 2015 Edition of the International Building Code (IBE) published by the International Code Council (ICC) with the District of Columbia Building Code Supplement (Title 12-A DCMR);

(2) 2015 Edition of the International Mechanical Code (IMC) published by the International Code Council (ICC) with the District of Columbia Mechanical Code Supplement (Title 12-E DCMR);

(3) 2015 Edition of the International Plumbing Code (IP) published by the International Code Council (ICC) with the District of Columbia Plumbing Code Supplement (Title 12-F DCMR);

(4) 2015 Edition of the International Fire Code (IFC) published by the International Code Council (ICC) with the District of Columbia Fire Code Supplement (Title 12-H DCMR); and

(5) 2014 Edition of the National Electric Code (NFPA 70) published by the International Code Council (ICC) with the District of Columbia Electrical Code Supplement (Title 12-C DCMR).

102.2 If a conflict arises between a provision in this Subtitle and a federal law or regulation cited in § 102.1 above, the federal law or regulation shall take precedence over this Subtitle. However, where there is a conflict between provisions in this Subtitle, the International Codes or their referenced standards, or the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, the District’s Construction Codes Supplements, including standards and amendments, shall take precedence.

102.3 In enforcing the provisions of this Subtitle, the Department shall regulate certain aspects of a barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility’s physical structure, operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings

in use before the effective date of this Subtitle based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings used in a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility are in good repair or capable of being maintained in a hygienic condition in compliance with this Subtitle; or

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings will be replaced by an agreed upon date.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). Section 102.1 cites to copyrighted materials that are not republished in this Subtitle. However, these materials are available at the United Stated Department of Labor, Occupational Safety & Health Administration official website: (https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=10051) (https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/nailsalons/chemicalhazards.html) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Clean Hands Save Lives Campaign: (www.cdc.gov/handwashing), updated March 16, 2020 The most recent versions of the District of Columbia Building Codes, referred to as the “Building Code,” consists of the 2015 edition of the International Building Code (International Building Code), published by the International Code Council (ICC) and are amended by the District of Columbia Building Code Supplements (Title 12 DCMR, Subtitles A through M). The International Building Code is copyrighted by the ICC and therefore is not republished here. However, a copy of the text may be obtained at: https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/document/IBC2015. District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 102
25-E DCMR § 103 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL AND DISTRICT LAWS ─ HEALTH HAZARDS, PROVISION FOR CONDITIONS NOT ADDRESSED (Critical Section)

103.1 If necessary, to protect against public health hazards or nuisances, the Department may impose specific requirements in addition to the requirements contained in these Regulations that are authorized pursuant to “An Act To authorize the Commissioners of the District of Columbia to make regulations to prevent and control the spread of communicable and preventable diseases”, approved August 11, 1939 (53 Stat. 1408; D.C. Official Code § 7-131).

103.2 Public health shall be protected as determined by the Department for cosmetology and esthetic procedures that are not specifically addressed in this Subtitle.

103.3 The Department shall document the conditions that necessitate the imposition of additional requirements and the underlying public health rationale. The documentation shall be provided to a license applicant or licensee and a copy shall be maintained in the Department's file for the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 103

25-E2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING, OPERATING PROCEDURES, AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

25-E DCMR § 200 LICENSEEs’ Responsibilities ─ QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING (Critical Section)

200.1 Licensees shall document the following personnel information and any addition information specified in § 210:

(a) Proof that the barber, cosmetologist, and personal groomer has an active license in accordance with the DCRA Barber and Cosmetology Regulations;

(b) Proof that the barber, cosmetologist, and personal groomer is eighteen (18) years of age or older. Proof of age shall be satisfied with a valid driver’s license, school-issued identification, or other government issued identification containing the date of birth and a photograph of the individual; and

(c) Training in Biohazard issues and handling in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards in accordance with 29 C.F.R. – Part 1910 – Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances, including universal precautions in accordance with 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030(d) – Bloodborne pathogens.

200.2 Licensees shall ensure a person-in-charge is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operations at each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility.

200.3 Licensees shall ensure licensed personnel are on the premises during all hours of operation at each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility.

200.4 Licensees shall ensure that only single-use disposable sharps, gloves, and cleansing products are used in connection with cosmetic procedures in the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities.

200.5 Licensees not regulated by the DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in § 504, shall document proof that personnel are eighteen (18) years of age or older. Proof of age shall be satisfied with a valid driver’s license, school-issued identification, or other government issued identification containing the date of birth and a photograph of the individual.

200.6 Licensees not regulated by DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in § 504, shall ensure personnel document the following training:

(a) OSHA 10-Hour General Industry (Cosmetology) Course; and

(b) Cosmetology Infection Control.

200.7 Licensees not regulated by DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in § 504, shall ensure a person-in-charge is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation at each facility.

200.8 Licensees not regulated by DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in § 504, shall comply with §§ 504, 608, and all applicable provisions in Chapter 2 and this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 200
25-E DCMR § 201 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM PERSONNEL (Critical Section)

201.1 Licensees shall ensure personnel encountering a biohazard or other health hazards report it immediately to the person-in-charge.

201.2 All licensees shall ensure licensed personnel:

(a) Wear clean outer garments, maintain a high degree of personal cleanliness, and conform to hygienic practices while on duty;

(b) Wash their hands, upon entering the work place, before and after performing any procedure on a client, before and after performing any cleaning, before and after eating, after using the restroom, and as often as necessary to remove contaminants;

(c) Dry hands thoroughly with single use disposable paper towels or non-disposable laundered linens consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Hand Washing Guidelines, as specified in § 102.1(d);

(d) Don new latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic single-use disposable gloves when assembling equipment and supplies; and

(e) Don new latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic single-use disposable gloves on both hands when touching, decontaminating, or handling a surface, object, or instrument that is soiled or that is potentially soiled with bodily fluids.

201.3 When a cosmetic procedure is interrupted, or immediately after gloves are torn or perforated, the licensee shall ensure personnel:

(a) Remove and discard the gloves;

(b) Wash and dry their hands as specified in § 201.2(b) and (c); and

(c) Don a new pair of gloves, as specified in § 201.2(d) and (e).

201.4 Licensees shall ensure personnel use the following universal precautions for all cosmetic procedures:

(a) Don new gloves for routine disinfecting procedures;

(b) Move in such a manner as to avoid re-contamination of work surfaces;

(c) Discard and remove disposable items from work areas after completing a cosmetic procedure on each customer;

(d) Clean and disinfect work surface areas and all equipment prior to and in-between cosmetic procedure;

(e) Dispose of single-use aprons after use on each customer;

(f) Remove and discard gloves and wash hands;

(g) Discard materials contaminated with bodily fluids immediately, or in accordance with § 204.2;

(h) Clean and disinfect all reusable instruments, implements and equipment made of non-porous material including but not limited to manicure bowls, non-fixed pedicure bowls, marbles, stones, etc. after each use, as specified in §§ 203.5, 203.8, 205, 207, or 208;

(i) Reusable instruments contaminated with blood or bodily fluids shall be decontaminated with:

(1) Soap and warm water;

(2) Rinse with clean water;

(3) Disinfectant cleaner; and

(4) Followed by an ultrasonic cleaner, steam autoclave or dry oven heat.

(j) Apply 70% alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, bacitracin, and other antiseptics with single-use applicators. Applicators that have touched a customer shall not be used to retrieve antiseptics, iodine, etc. from any container; and

(k) Use sterilized equipment, as specified in §§ 203.6 through 203.9, 205, 206, 207, and 208.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 201
25-E DCMR § 202 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ SINGLE-USE, MULTI-USE, AND DISPOSABLE ITEMS (Critical Section)

202.1 Single-use, disposable items, including but not limited to needles, gloves, emery boards, cotton swabs, pumice stones, powder puffs, sponges, and any other equipment or instrument that cannot be cleaned and disinfected shall be discarded immediately after each use.

202.2 Clean single-use disposable items shall be stored and dispensed in a manner that prevents contamination to unused items.

202.3 Cosmetic products in multiple-use containers shall be dispensed in a manner that prevents contamination of the storage container and any remaining unused portion in the storage container through the use of a single-use receptacle, including but not limited to:

(a) Styptic liquid;

(b) Styptic powers;

(c) Powdered alum; or

(d) Body wax and paraffin treatment.

202.4 All licensed personnel shall wear clean outerwear over street clothing, such as lab coats, smocks, aprons, or other protective outer clothing shall not be worn outdoors or in toilet facilities.

202.5 Single-use gloves shall be disposed of after completing a procedure or prior to beginning a new task.

202.6 All workstations in personal grooming facilities, including treatment rooms providing esthetic or electrology services shall contain medical-grade sharps containers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 202
25-E DCMR § 203 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ REUSABLE INSTRUMENTS, EQUIPMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL SURFACES, AND DISINFECTING PROCEDURES (Critical Section)

203.1 Licensees shall ensure reusable implements, instruments, and equipment are cleaned and sterilized, as specified in §§ 203.5, 203.8, 203.10, 205, 207, or 208 after:

(a) Each cosmetic procedure;

(b) Coming in contact with a customer; or

(c) Being removed from a sterilized environment.

203.2 Licensees shall ensure that contaminated, reusable instruments or equipment are placed in a labeled covered container which shall contain a United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectant solution that is bactericidal, viricidal and fungicidal used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

203.3 Licensees shall ensure that all containers and container lids holding contaminated reusable instruments are emptied of the contaminated solution and cleaned and disinfected daily or more often as needed.

203.4 Use of ultraviolet (UV) light to disinfect or sterilize equipment or instruments is prohibited.

203.5 If using autoclave method of sterilization, licensees shall ensure barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities:

(a) Clean articles with soap and water, completely immerse in a chemical solution that is an EPA-registered disinfectant as follows:

(1) Remove hair from combs and brushes and immerse the combs and brushes in an EPA-registered disinfectant solution according to the manufacuters specification;

(2) Immerse metallic instrument in an EPA-registered disinfectant; and

(3) Only wipe metallic instruments with sharp, cutting edges with an EPA-registered disinfectant.

(b) Equipment that has been disinfected as specified in § 203.5(a) shall be:

(1) Placed in sealed autoclave peel-packs that contain a visual sterilizer indicator; or

(2) Placed directly in the autoclave with an internal visual indicator for larger equipment that does not fit into peel-packs; and

(c) All cleaned, non-disposable instruments shall be sterilized in a U.S Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approved steam autoclave or dry heat sterilizer, as follows:

(1) The sterilizer shall be used, cleaned, and maintained according to the manufacturer's instruction. A copy of the manufacturer’s recommended procedures for the operation of the sterilization unit must be available for inspection;

(2) Sterilizers shall be located away from workstations or areas frequented by the public; and

(3) If a licensed facility uses all single use, disposable instruments and products, and utilizes sterile supplies, an autoclave shall not be required.

(d) Licensees shall demonstrate that the sterilizer used is capable of attaining sterilization by monthly spore destruction tests. These tests shall be verified through an independent laboratory, as specified in § 208.1(f).

203.6 Licensees shall ensure that reusable implement, instrument, or equipment whether or not it is used, or comes in contact with a customer, or is removed from its sterilized environment, shall be re-sterilized as specified in §§ 203.10, 207, 208, and 209.

203.7 Licensees shall ensure that after cleaning, all non-single use, non-disposable instruments shall be packed individually, in peel packs, and subsequently sterilized in accordance with § 203.5(c)(1) and (2), and shall include the following:

(a) Peel packs shall contain visual sterilizer indicators or use other internal visual temperature indicator when peel packs are not used;

(b) Peel packs must be dated with an expiration date not to exceed six (6) months;

(c) Sterile equipment may not be used if the package has been breached or after the expiration date without first sterilizing and repackaging;

(d) All equipment shall remain in sterile packaging until just before use.

203.8 Licensees shall ensure that reusable instruments or equipment are sterilized in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions in an FDA-listed sterilizer.

203.9 Licensees shall ensure that after sterilizing reusable instruments or equipment, the reusable instruments and equipment are stored in a covered non-porous, dry, cool place.

203.10 Licensees shall ensure that each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility:

(a) Clean reusable instruments with soap and water prior to it being completely immersed in a chemical solution that is an EPA-registered disinfectant;

(b) Is equipped with a working U.S. FDA-listed sterilizer; and

(c) Maintain Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals present in the establishment for inspection by the Department.

203.11 All workstations shall be constructed and equipped with chairs, and tabletops that are not upholstered, smooth, and easily cleanable and maintained in a clean and sanitary manner.

203.12 All solid surfaces and objects in cosmetic procedure areas that have come in contact with the customer or the materials used in performing cosmetic procedures shall be immediately cleaned after each use and then disinfected by application of a disinfectant, used according to manufacturer’s instructions, including but not limited to:

(a) Tables;

(b) Countertops;

(c) Trays; and

(d) Manicure bowls and non-fixed pedicure bowls.

203.13 The surfaces and objects in the procedure area shall be disinfected again if an activity that poses a potential contamination occurred in the area after the area was disinfected.

203.14 Licensees shall ensure barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities clean and disinfect shampoo bowls, facial beds, neck rests, and other high-contact areas between each use with single-use disposable wipes with an EPA-registered disinfectant.

203.15 Licensees shall ensure that at least one covered, hands-free, solid, non-absorbent waste receptacle, lined with disposable non-absorbent bags is provided in each:

(a) Workstation;

(b) In each toilet room; and

(c) At each hand wash sink if using disposable paper towels.

203.16 Licensees shall ensure each workstation for barbering and cosmetic procedures provide barbers and cosmetologists with a minimum of forty-five square feet (45 sq. ft.) of floor space.

203.17 Licensees shall maintain, in chronological order for ninety (90) calendar days, records of the purchase of all pre-sterilized medical-grade instruments, implements, disposable items, single-use supplies, cleaning, disinfectant and sanitizing solutions.

203.18 Each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility shall have a separate cleaning area for the decontamination, and sterilization procedures, in which the placement of a sterilizer is at least thirty-six (36) inches away from the placement of any sink.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 203
25-E DCMR § 204 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ WASTE HANDLING AND DISPOSAL (Critical Section)

204.1 Licensees shall ensure that personal grooming services that require the use of sharps are disposed of in medical-grade sharps containers and disposed of by professional environmental infectious waste disposal companies licensed in the District of Columbia, in accordance with § 404.3.

204.2 All other disposable supplies or disposable materials that are contaminated with blood or other body fluids that are generated during a cosmetic procedure shall be discarded immediately in accordance with § 404.3.

204.3 All solid waste that is not contaminated shall be placed in easily cleanable, sealed containers that are kept closed when not in use and disposed of in accordance with § 404.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 204
25-E DCMR § 205 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ INFECTION PREVENTION AND EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN (Critical Section)

205.1 Licensees shall ensure that each barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility develops, maintains, and follows a written Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan that is maintained on the premises for inspection by the Department and identifies the following:

(a) Policies and procedures on universal precautions for exposure to bloodborne pathogens from blood and other potentially infectious materials;

(b) Policies and procedures for disinfecting environmental surfaces, including professional treatment tabletops and chairs after electrology procedures;

(c) Policies and procedures for decontaminating, packaging, sterilizing, and storing reusable instruments;

(d) Policies and procedures for protecting clean instruments and sterile instrument packs from exposure to dust and moisture during storage;

(e) Policies and procedures for safe handling and disposal of sharps and bio-hazardous waste;

(f) Recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to control the spread of infectious disease and treat all human blood and bodily fluids as infectious through universal precautions; and

(g) Procedures for reporting as specified in § 212.

205.2 Licensees shall ensure routine on-site training on the facility’s Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan, and shall require additional training when an operator:

(a) Is exposed to an occupational hazard;

(b) Performs a new procedure or there is a change in a procedure; and

(c) The facility purchases new equipment.

205.3 Licensees shall provide and maintain written Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan for each piece of reusable instrument and equipment on the premises for inspection by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 205
25-E DCMR § 206 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ SOILED LINENS, SEPARATION, AND CLEANING (Critical Section)

206.1 Licensees shall ensure that each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility that supply and launder their own non-disposal linens shall launder, fold, and store non-disposal linens in a sanitary manner that prevents contamination.

206.2 Separate storage areas shall be designated for soiled non-disposal linens away from clean non-disposable linens.

206.3 There shall be an adequate hot water supply to on-site laundry facilities as specified in §§ 305 and 306.

206.4 There shall be an adequate number of washing machines, dryers, and folding tables to handle the volume of laundry generated at the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility.

206.5 All non-disposable linens washed on-site shall be washed with an EPA registered product for disinfecting laundry.

206.6 Washing machines and dryers shall be of commercial quality and installed per manufacturers specifications and as specified in Chapter 3.

206.7 The washing machines, dryers, and folding tables shall be maintained in good operating condition.

206.8 Laundry exposed to a bio-hazardous event, shall be handled as specified in § 205.

206.9 Laundered non-disposable linens shall be stored at least six (6) inches above the floor level in a clean, ventilated, illuminated, and well-maintained place until used.

206.10 If facility does not have a washer or dryer, they must have a contract with a linen service company licensed to operate in the District of Columbia, as specified in § 404.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 206
25-E DCMR § 207 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ REUSABLE INSTRUMENTS AND STERILIZATION PROCEDURES (Critical Section)

207.1 Licensees shall ensure reusable instruments are cleaned by gloved personnel prior to sterilization as specified in § 203.6 using the following methods:

(a) Manually clean the items by using a stiff bristle brush under water with a solution of low-residue detergent, with care taken to ensure the removal of any pigment or body substances not visible to the eye, thoroughly rinse with at least warm water and then drain, and clean by soaking in a protein dissolving detergent-enzyme cleaner used according to the manufacturer’s instructions; or

(b) Rinse and dry the items prior to packaging for sterilization.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 207
25-E DCMR § 208 MAINTENANCE RECORDS ─ DRY HEAT STERILIZERS (Critical Section)

208.1 Dry-heat sterilizers shall be used only for materials that can be damaged by moist heat or that are impenetrable to moist heat, including but not limited to powders, petroleum products, or sharp instruments. As specified in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008) (page 68), time-temperature relationships for sterilizing with hot air sterilizers shall be maintained at:

(a) Three hundred and forty degrees Fahrenheit (340 °F) (one hundred and

sixty degrees Celsius (160 °C)) for sixty (60) minutes;

(b) Three hundred and twenty degrees Fahrenheit (320 °F) (one hundred and

seventy degrees Celsius (170 °C)) for one hundred and twenty (120) minutes;

(c) Three hundred degrees Fahrenheit (300 °F) (one hundred and fifty degrees Celsius (150 °C)) for one hundred and fifty (150) minutes;

(d) The most recent records of the calibrations shall be maintained on the premises for inspection by the Department;

(e) The calibration records shall not be older than one year unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer; and

(f) Sterilizers shall be spore tested in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and records of the spore tests shall be maintained on the premises for three (3) years after the date of the results for inspection by the Department, except as specified in § 613.2.

208.2 Licensees shall monitor the sterilization process for dry heat as specified in §§ 203.5(b) and 203.7(a) with visual sterilizer indicators for the destruction of B. atrophaeus spores, which are more resistant to dry heat than G. stearothermophilus spores.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 208
25-E DCMR § 209 MAINTENANCE RECORDS ─ STERILIZERS (Critical Section)

209.1 If the manufacturer requires calibration of sterilization equipment, it shall be performed by an independent laboratory that will calibrate the equipment biennially or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer, and:

(a) The most recent records of the calibrations shall be maintained on the premises for inspection by the Department;

(b) The calibration records shall not be older than one year unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer; and

(c) Sterilizers shall be spore tested in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and records of the spore tests shall be maintained on the premises for three (3) years after the date of the results for inspection by the Department, except as specified in section 613.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 209
25-E DCMR § 210 RECORDS OF ACQUISITIONS ─ DISPOSABLES, SINGLE-USE, PRE-STERILIZED INSTRUMENTS, AND RECORD RETENTION (Critical Section)

210.1 Licensees that do not provide access to decontamination and sterilization areas that are in compliance with this Subtitle shall:

(a) Ensure only pre-sterilized instruments, and disposable, single-use supplies are used as specified in § 200.4;

(b) Purchase disposable, single-use latex, vinyl, or hypoallergenic gloves; cleansing products; and FDA-approved medical-grade instruments as defined in this Subtitle; and

(c) Maintain for ninety (90) calendar days the receiving record of the purchase of all pre-sterilized medical-grade instruments, disposables, and single-use supplies.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 210
25-E DCMR § 211 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ CONFIDENTIAL, PERSONNEL FILES (Critical Section)

211.1 Licensees shall maintain a personnel manual at the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility which shall be available at all times to personnel and the Department during each inspection.

211.2 Each barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility’s personnel manual shall maintain the following information regarding personnel, in addition to § 200.1:

(a) Full legal name;

(b) Home address and telephone number(s);

(c) Training certifications in accordance with DCRA Barber and Cosmetology Regulations;

(d) Proof that he or she is eighteen (18) years of age or older with a driver’s license or other government issued identification containing the date of birth and a photograph of the individual, or school issued identifications; and

(e) Proof of compliance with pre-employment requirement of current hepatitis B vaccination, including applicable boosters, unless the barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer:

Demonstrates hepatitis B immunity; or

(2) Compliance with current federal OSHA hepatitis B vaccination declination requirements.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 211
25-E DCMR § 212 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ REPORTS OF INFECTION OR ALLERGIC REACTIONS, STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPs), EMERGENCY CONTACTS, AND RECORD RETENTION

212.1 Licensees shall maintain:

(a) A document called a “Report of Infection or Allergic Reactions” that details infections and allergic reactions reported to the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility by a customer, as specified in §§ 212.2, 212.3, and 212.5; and

(b) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for each modality of service provided at the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility for review by the Department, as specified in § 212.9. SOPs shall be signed and dated and shall not be older (1) year.

212.2 Licensees shall submit to the Department a written report of any diagnosed infections or allergic reactions resulting from a cosmetic procedure within twenty-four (24) hours of its occurrence, knowledge of the occurrence, or customer generated complaint.

212.3 The report shall include the following information:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the affected customer;

(b) Name, location, telephone number and license number of the facility where the cosmetic procedure was performed;

(c) The complete legal name of the operator and his or her license number;

(d) The date the cosmetic procedure was performed;

(e) The type of cosmetic procedure performed, and product used, if applicable;

(f) The location of the infection or allergic reaction, and the location on the body where the cosmetic procedure was applied;

(g) The name and address of the health care practitioner, if any; and

(h) Any other information considered relevant to the situation.

212.4 The Department shall use these reports in their efforts to identify the source of the adverse reactions and to take action to prevent its recurrence.

212.5 Licensees shall maintain all reports pertaining to infections and allergic reactions and SOPs at their facilities for review until the Department authorizes their disposal, as specified in § 212.9.

212.6 A list of emergency contact numbers shall be posted conspicuously and easily accessible to all personnel and shall include, but is not limited to:

(a) The nearest hospital;

(b) The nearest fire department;

(c) Emergency 911 service; and

(d) OSHA Emergency service number.

212.7 All files identified in this section that are maintained electronically shall be frequently backed up and accessible from multiple locations, if applicable.

212.8 An electronic record shall be retrievable as a printed copy.

212.9 The licensee shall maintain all records at the facility for at least three (3) years or longer if required by any other applicable District law or regulation. The records shall be readily available for review by the Department upon request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 212

25-E3 STRUCTURE, DESIGN, OPERATING SYSTEMS, AND MAINTENANCE

25-E DCMR § 300 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ BUILDING MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP (Critical Section)

300.1 Licensees of a newly constructed, remodeled, or renovated barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility shall ensure that the design, construction, building materials, and workmanship complies with most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(1).

300.2 Licensees of existing barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall maintain in good condition the physical integrity of its facility by repairing or replacing structural or design defects, operating systems, or fixtures in use before the effective date of this Subtitle as specified in § 102.1(g)(1).

300.3 Existing barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall be constructed with solid walls or partitions as specified in § 102.1(g)(1) and shall bear the appropriate preconstruction permits.

300.4 At least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction or remodeling of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, the licensee shall submit construction plans with all schedules, including but not limited to floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics, to the Department for review and approval, as specified in § 604.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 300
25-E DCMR § 301 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ─ PROTECTIVE PHYSICAL BARRIERS (Critical Section)

301.1 Perimeter walls and roof of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall effectively protect the facility from the weather and the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals.

301.2 Except as otherwise specified in §§ 301.3, 301.4 and 301.5, the outer openings of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall be protected against the entry of insects and rodents by:

(a) Filling or closing holes and other gaps along floors, walls, and ceilings;

(b) Closed, tight-fitting windows; and

(c) Solid, self-closing, tight-fitting doors.

301.3 Subsection 301.2 shall not apply if a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility opens into a larger structure, such as a mall, airport, or office building, and the outer openings from the larger structure are protected against the entry of insects and rodents.

301.4 Exterior doors used as exits need not be self-closing if they are:

(a) Solid and tight-fitting;

(b) Designated only for emergency use by the Fire Department; and

(c) Restricted so they are not used for entrance or exit from the building for purposes other than the designated emergency exit use.

301.5 Except as specified in § 301.1 through 301.4, if the windows or doors of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, are kept open for ventilation or other purposes the openings shall be protected against the entry of insects and rodents by:

(a) Sixteen (16) mesh to twenty-five and four tenths millimeters (25.4 mm) or sixteen (16) mesh to one-inch (1 in.) screen;

(b) Properly designed and installed air curtains to control flying insects; or

(c) Other effective means that prohibit the entry of insects and rodents to a similar degree.

301.6 Subsection 301.5 does not apply if flying insects and other pests are absent due to the location of the establishment, the weather, or other limiting conditions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 301
25-E DCMR § 302 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ PRIVATE ACCOMMODATIONS (Critical Section)

302.1 Licensees shall ensure customers’ privacy in treatment rooms when providing cosmetic or grooming services on intimate areas of the body and treatment rooms shall not be used as a walk-thru to gain access to other rooms or exits.

302.2 Licensees shall ensure client privacy by constructing treatment rooms that:

(a) Have four fixed, permanent walls that are at least six feet tall from the floor, and doors capable of being locked that allow easy entry and exit; and

(b) Are at a minimum of forty-five square feet (45 sq. ft.) of floor space.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 302
25-E DCMR § 303 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ DESIGNATED AREAS FOR PERSONNEL

303.1 Areas designated for staff use shall be located so that clean and disinfected equipment, linens, furnishings, or supplies are protected from contamination, and maintained in good repair and free of unnecessary clutter and debris.

303.2 Locker rooms or other suitable areas shall be designated for the orderly storage of staff clothing and other possessions and shall be located in a room or area where contamination of equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, or supplies cannot occur.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 303
25-E DCMR § 304 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ ACCESS, PROHIBITED USE

304.1 The provisions in this Subtitle shall apply to:

(a) Every building or part of a building that is occupied or used as a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility; and

(b) A barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility in any building or part of a building licensed or operated for any other purpose, notwithstanding that other Regulations may be applicable to other parts of the building.

304.2 Access to a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility through any place designed, intended, or used for human habitation is prohibited, and shall be accessed by a separate entrance.

304.3 Areas that open directly into any room used as living or sleeping quarters in private homes shall not be used to provide barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming services.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 304
25-E DCMR § 305 OPERATING SYSTEMS ─ PLUMBING SYSTEM, DESIGN, WATER CAPACITY AND QUANTITY, AND AVAILABILITY (Critical Section)

305.1 All plumbing systems, including automatic handwashing fixtures comply with the manufacturers’ instructions for design, construction, installation, and maintenance in accordance with the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(3), and shall be of sufficient size to:

(a) Meet the hot water demands throughout the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility;

(b) Properly convey sewage and liquid disposable waste from the premises;

(c) Avoid creating any unsanitary condition or constituting a source of contamination to potable water, or cosmetic equipment or instruments;

(d) Provide sufficient floor drainage to prevent excessive pooling of water or other disposable waste in all areas where floors are subject to flooding-type cleaning or where normal operations release or discharge water or other liquid waste on the floor; and

(e) Meet all potable water demands throughout the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility.

305.2 All plumbing fixtures, including but not limited to toilets, urinals, handwashing sinks, and shampoo bowls shall be:

(a) Maintained in good repair at all times;

(b) Maintained cleaned; and

(c) Easily cleanable. (Non-critical subsection)

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 305
25-E DCMR § 306 OPERATING SYSTEMS ─ PLUMBING SYSTEM, SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE AND FLOW (Critical Section)

306.1 All barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall have at least one (1) commercial service sink as specified in 306.7 not less than sixteen inches (16 in.) wide, sixteen inches (16 in.) long, and ten inches (10 in.) deep, with hot and cold running water, for custodial purposes only. Provided, that where a part of a premises is used for custodial purposes, it shall be sufficient if the plumbing fixtures are provided within the building if the fixtures can be reached by a line of travel not exceeding one hundred feet (100 ft.) without going outside the building, and on the same floor and is accessible during all hours of operation.

306.2 All barber, beauty salons, and specialty braiding salons shall have at least one (1) hand sink that is always accessible and conveniently located on the salon floor that is used for handwashing only.

306.3 All sinks, including those in toilet facilities, shall be equipped to provide hot water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit ((100° F) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 °C)) and not exceed one hundred and twenty degrees Fahrenheit ((120°F) (forty-eight point eighty-nine degrees Celsius (48.89° C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or a single faucet, except for hot water temperature requirements specified in Title 22B DCMR § 3236.4 of the “Nursing Facilities Regulations” and the “Assisted Living Residence Regulatory Act of 2000”, effective June 24, 2000 (D.C. Law 13-127; D.C. Official Code § 44-110.06(c)).

306.4 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

306.5 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water that is capable of reaching one hundred degrees Fahrenheit ((100 °F) (thirty-eight

degrees Celsius (38°C)) for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

306.6 Automatic handwashing fixtures shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

306.7 Commercial service sinks shall be constructed of non-breakable, non-porous materials, such as molded composite stone, stainless steel, or porcelain and shall be ANSI/NSF approved.

306.8 All barber and specialty braiding salons shall be equipped with at least one (1) styling station and one (1) shampoo bowl. However, an additional shampoo bowl is required for every four (4) styling stations beyond the first styling station.

306.9 All beauty salons, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall be equipped with at least one (1) styling station and one (1) shampoo bowl. However, an additional shampoo bowl is required for every three (3) styling stations beyond the first styling station.

306.10 All shampoo bowls shall be conveniently located and used exclusively for cosmetic or grooming services or preparations.

306.11 The bathroom hand washing sinks shall not be used for general salon purposes, shampoo purposes, or salon area hand sink.

306.12 All barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall have one least one (1) general purpose sink and toilet facility equipped with hot and cold running water on the premises.

306.13 All barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall be equipped with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is used only for disinfecting purposes, as specified in Chapter 2.

306.14 Licensed facilities that are not in compliance with §§ 306.1, 306.7, 306.9, and 306.13 are required to come into compliance within two (2) years of the adoption of this Subtitle.

306.15 Facilities that are licensed on the effective publication date of this Subtitle shall come into compliance within six (6) months with §§ 306.1, 306.7, 306.9, and 306.13, when:

(a) Undergoing major renovation, remodeling, or alteration; or

(b) Changing ownership.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 306
25-E DCMR § 307 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ PLUMBING SYSTEM, TOILET FACILITIES, AND REQUIRED SIGNAGE

307.1 All single-stall toilet rooms shall display gender-neutral signs on the door that read “Restroom,” or have a universally recognized picture/symbol indicating that persons of any gender may use each restroom, in accordance with the Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c)), and the “Compliance Rules and Regulations Regarding Gender Identity or Expression”, 4 DCMR § 802.

Barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities employing:

A staff of five (5) or less may provide a single toilet facility with required

signage on the door in compliance with the District’s building code or other District law or regulations; or

(b) A staff of six (6) or more shall have multiple toilet facilities that are either

single-stall toilet rooms or multiple-stall toilet rooms with required signage on the doors in compliance with the District’s building code or other District law or regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 307
25-E DCMR § 308 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ HEATING AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS

308.1 Each barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall provide toilet facilities (restrooms) for personnel and customers, in accordance with the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(3).

308.2 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be adequately ventilated so that excessive moisture is removed from the room. Acceptable ventilation includes mechanical exhaust ventilation, a recirculating vent, or screened windows in accordance with the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(2).

308.3 Each heating, cooling, and ventilation system shall be properly maintained and operational at all times when the rooms are occupied.

308.4 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be capable of being maintained at a temperature between sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit ((68° F) (twenty degrees Celsius (20° C)) and seventy-eight degrees Fahrenheit ((78° F) (twenty-five point five degrees Celsius (25.5° C)) while being used by customers, as specified in Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s Recommendations for Employers in Section 3, Chapter 2, V.A.3. (OSHA technical manual).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 308
25-E DCMR § 309 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ MECHANICAL AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS, DESIGN AND OPERATION, BALANCING AND LOCATION

309.1 Mechanical and ventilation systems, including but not limited to furnaces, gas- or oil-fired room heaters, and water heaters in barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall comply with the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(2), and other applicable District laws and regulations.

309.2 All barber and cosmetology facilities shall have sufficient tempered make-up air and exhaust ventilation to keep them free of excessive heat, steam, condensation, vapors, obnoxious odors, smoke, and fumes.

309.3 All personal grooming facilities shall allow for circulation of air sufficient to eliminate odors in accordance with § 102.1(g)(2).

309.4 All rooms in a barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities shall be provided with at least eight (8) air changes per hour. Recirculation of air is not permitted.

309.5 Nail salons, including nail work stations within a cosmetology, or personal grooming facility that provide manicure and/or pedicure services shall be equipped with an independent exhaust or mechanical ventilation system at the source capture system to remove fumes and dust from nail stations directly to the exterior of the building and shall not be recirculated into any space. Make-up air

is required and shall be considered for the entire mechanical exhaust ventilation system design, as specified in § 309.6 and Table A in § 309.7.

309.6 An independent source capture system exhaust and mechanical ventilation system shall be located at each nail station with an interlocking exhaust system and light switch to ensure the exhaust system is fully operational when nail station activities are occurring.

309.7 The minimum flow rate of outdoor air that the ventilation system must be capable of supplying during its operation shall be based on the rate per person, and the actual number of occupants’ present, as specified in Table A:

TABLE A

OCCUPANCY

CLASSIFICATION

OCCUPANT DENSITY

#/1000 FT2a

PEOPLE OUTDOOR

AIRFLOW RATE IN

BREATHING ZONE,

Rp CFM/PERSON

AREA OUTDOOR

AIRFLOW RATE IN

BREATHING ZONE,

Ra CFM/FT2a

EXHAUST

AIRFLOW RATE

CFM/FT2

Barber

25

7.5

0.06

0.5

Beauty salonsb

25

20

0.12

0.6

Nail salons b, h

25

20

0.12

0.6

For SI: 1 cubic foot per minute = 0.0004719 m3/s, 1 ton = 908 kg, 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot = 0.00508 m3/(s •m2),°C =[(°F)-32]/1.8, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.

Based upon net occupiable floor area.

Mechanical exhaust required and the recirculation of air from such spaces is prohibited. Recirculation of air that is contained completely within such spaces shall not be prohibited (see Section 403.2.1 of the International Mechanical Code , Item 3).

Where mechanical exhaust is required by Note b in Table A, recirculation of air from such spaces shall be prohibited. All air supplied to such spaces shall be exhausted, including any air in excess of that required by Table A.

Spaces unheated or maintained below 50°F are not covered by these requirements unless the occupancy is continuous.

Rates are per water closet or urinal. The higher rate shall be provided where the exhaust system is designed to operate intermittently. The lower rate shall be permitted only where the exhaust system is designed to operate continuously while occupied.

Rates are per room unless otherwise indicated. The higher rate shall be provided where the exhaust system is designed to operate intermittently. The lower rate shall be permitted only where the exhaust system is designed to operate continuously while occupied.

Mechanical exhaust is required, and recirculation is prohibited.

For nail salons, manicure and pedicure stations shall be provided with a source capture system capable of exhausting not less than 50 cfm per station. Exhaust inlets shall be located in accordance with Section 502.20 of the International Mechanical Code. Where one or more required source capture systems operate continuously during occupancy, the exhaust rate from such systems shall be permitted to be applied to the exhaust flow rate required by Table A for the nail salon.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 309
25-E DCMR § 310 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ PREVENTING CONTAMINATION FROM MAKE-UP AIR AND EXHAUST VENTS

310.1 Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems shall be designed and installed so that make-up air intake and exhaust vents do not cause contamination of environmental surfaces single-use items, or clean and disinfected linen, or reusable implements/instruments, or equipment, as specified in §§ 202 and 203.

310.2 If the exhausted air contains dust, dirt, chemicals or other contaminants, the exhaust shall require additional treatment to prevent the contamination of the exterior air.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 310

25-E4 FACILITY MAINTENANCE

25-E DCMR § 400 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ TOILETS AND URINALS, CLEANABILITY, ACCESSIBILITY AND LOCATION, AND RESTRICTIONS (Critical Section)

400.1 Each barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall provide toilet facilities (restrooms) for personnel and customers, in accordance with the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(3).

400.2 Toilet facilities shall be conveniently located and accessible to personnel and staff during all hours of operation. Toilet facilities are deemed conveniently located and accessible if they are accessible during working hours without going outside the building.

400.3 Licensees shall, at a minimum:

(a) Maintain the toilet facilities in a sanitary condition that is clean and free of solid waste and litter;

(b) Keep the facilities in good repair at all times; and

(c) Single occupancy toilet facilities shall be provided with tight-fitting, self- self-closing doors, and locking doors.

400.4 Toilet facilities provided by the management of a shopping mall that are located outside of barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facilities and that do not open directly into a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility do not have to be completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors, and locking doors, as specified in § 400.3.

400.5 Toilet paper holder, adequate supply of toilet tissue, and a waste receptacle shall be provided in each stall of a multiple-stall toilet room, and in every single-stall toilet room. A covered waste receptacle for feminine hygienic products shall be provided in each toilet stall designated for female customers and personnel.

400.6 Toilet facility (restroom) doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

400.7 At no time shall consumers or personnel enter toilet facilities (restrooms), or areas designated for personnel during routine cleaning or maintenance emergency.

400.8 A sign or poster that notifies users to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks.

400.9 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be conveniently equipped with soap dispensers that contain a supply of hand cleaning liquid or powdered soap. The dispensing unit shall be made of metal or plastic, glass materials and reusable cake soap are prohibited.

400.10 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is provided with disposable paper towels shall be provided with a waste receptacle.

400.11 A sink used for cosmetic preparation, or a service sink or curbed cleaning facility used for the disposal of mop water or similar wastes, shall not be provided with the handwashing aids and devices required for a handwashing sink as specified in § 400.8, 400.9, and 400.10.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 400
25-E DCMR § 401 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS

401.1 Except as specified in § 401.2, light bulbs shall be shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant in areas where cosmetic procedures are performed areas and where there is exposed clean and disinfected reusable implements/instruments or equipment, linens, or supplies.

401.2 Shielded, coated, or otherwise shatter-resistant bulbs need not be used in areas used only for storing unopened packages of supplies, if:

(a) The integrity of the packages cannot be affected by broken glass falling onto them; and

(b) The packages are capable of being cleaned of debris from broken bulbs before the packages are opened.

401.3 All rooms of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall have at least one (1) electrical source of light. Lighting luminaries and fixtures may be of incandescent, fluorescent, high density discharge, or light emitting diode (LED) types.

401.4 At least fifty (50) foot-candles of artificial light shall be provided in each procedure area and shall be provided in all decontamination and sterilization areas.

401.5 At least twenty (20) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each restroom, locker room, toilet room, or other areas when fully illuminated for cleaning.

401.6 An average illumination value of ten (10) foot-candles of light, but never less than seven and a half (7.5) foot-candles of light, shall be provided in other areas within a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, including offices, lobbies, retail shops, and waiting areas.

401.7 The above illumination levels shall be attainable at all times while the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is occupied.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 401
25-E DCMR § 402 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ REFUSE AND REMOVAL FREQUENCY

402.1 Inside and outside receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold all accumulated refuse.

402.2 Refuse discarded indoor shall be in a lined waste receptacle at a frequency that does not create a nuisance.

402.3 Receptacles and waste handling units shall be constructed of:

(a) Durable material that is rodent-resistant, leak-proof, nonabsorbent, and easily cleanable;

(b) Designed with tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers;

(c) Maintained in good repair.

402.4 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials and shall be located so that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

402.5 An outdoor storage surface for refuse shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

402.6 Storage areas and enclosures for refuse shall be kept clean and maintained free of unnecessary items and in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 402
25-E DCMR § 403 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ REMOVAL OF UNNECESSARY ITEMS, LITTER, AND CONTROLLING AND REMOVING PESTS, AND ANIMAL PROHIBITION (Critical Section)

403.1 The grounds surrounding a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility under the control of the operator shall be kept in a clean and litter-free condition.

403.2 The methods for adequate maintenance of grounds include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Properly storing or removing unnecessary equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used, removing litter and waste, and cutting weeds or grass within the immediate vicinity of the physical facility that may constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests;

(b) Maintaining roads and parking lots so that they do not constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests; and

(c) Adequately draining areas that may provide an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests.

403.3 Methods for maintaining a sanitary operation include providing sufficient space for placement and proper storage of equipment, instruments, and supplies.

403.4 Insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to minimize their presence in and around the facility by:

(a) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests; (Non-critical subsection)

(b) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control, such as covered, tamper-resistant bait stations; and

(c) Eliminating harborage conditions. (Non-critical subsection)

403.5 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from control devices and the premises at a frequency that prevents their accumulation, decomposition, or the attraction of pests.

403.6 With the exception of fish tanks and service animals, pets and other live animals shall not be allowed in any licensed facility or salon providing barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, specialty braiding, personal grooming, or nail services.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 403
25-E DCMR § 404 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS (Critical Section)

404.1 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility’s professional service contract and service schedule, and the following documents shall be available for inspection:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed pest exterminator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) Date pest extermination services were last provided to the facility.

404.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility’s professional service contract and service schedule, and the following documents shall be available for inspection:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed solid waste contractor; and

(b) Frequency of solid waste collection provided under the contract.

404.3 The licensee shall maintain a record of the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility’s receipts and service schedule for personal grooming services

that require the use of sharps, and the following documents shall be available for inspection:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed environmental biohazard waste disposal company; and

(b) Frequency of pickup services of biohazard waste, including but not limited to sharps; medical-grade gloves; disposable, single use cleaning products; and when necessary, materials requiring “red bag”

(biohazard) disposal shall comply with 29 C.F.R.§ 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(A) – Contaminated Sharps Discarding and Containment; and 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(B) – Other Regulated Waste Containment.

404.4 The licensee shall maintain a record of the barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility’s receipts and service schedule, and the following documents shall be available for inspection:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed Linen Service Company; and

(b) Frequency of pickup services for linens requiring laundry services.

404.5 Subsection 404.4 shall not apply to facilities that provide on-site laundry services.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 404

25-E5 FACILITIES’ OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

25-E DCMR § 500 REQUIRED STANDARDS AND SUPPLIES – BARBER, COSMETOLOGY, AND PERSONAL GROOMING FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS

500.1 Complimentary, non-potentially hazardous food and beverage (such as coffee and tea) amenities may be offered to patrons in barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facilities.

500.2 Except for foods and beverages specified in § 500.1, no barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facilities shall serve food without a valid food establishment license approved by the Department of Health.

500.3 Licensees shall ensure each barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility maintains supplies in sufficient quantities and operates with the following standard equipment:

(a) Storage space for custodial equipment and supplies;

(b) Covered foot-operated containers lined with disposable plastic bags for the daily removal of all waste materials;

(c) Supplies of appropriate EPA-registered disinfectant used according to manufacturers’ instructions;

(d) Clean laundered non-disposable linens, hair capes, and shampoo capes;

(e) Neck strips and suitable dispenser;

(f) Hair dryers;

(g) Hairdressing stand or small dresser with a shelf and mirror;

(h) Facial or all-purpose chair with head rest;

(i) Clean headrest covers and suitable dispensers;

(j) All-purpose stool;

(k) One (1) or more covered containers for EPA-registered disinfectant solutions;

(l) Closed cabinet or covered container of sufficient size to accommodate for clean tools, including but not limited to instruments used in barbering,

cosmetology, manicures, pedicures, esthetics, and electrology, as

necessary;

(m) Closed cabinet or covered container of sufficient size to accommodate tools to be disinfected, including but not limited to instruments used in barbering, cosmetology, manicures, pedicures, esthetics, and electrology, as necessary;

(n) Medical-grade sharps containers, as specified in §§ 204.1 and 404.3, for disposal of all used sharps, including but not limited to razors, epilator tips, etc.;

(o) Sanitary waste receptacles for the disposal of used gloves, paper supplies, cotton balls, and other noninfectious items;

(p) Clean laundered non-disposable linens and drapes for each customer, single-use, disposable paper towels , and drapes for each customer, as necessary;

(q) Covered container for clean linen;

(r) One (1) or more closed containers for soiled linen;

(s) Supplies of appropriate blood stopping agents, such as styptic powder, powdered alum, and astringents;

(t) A dispenser pump, spray-type container, squeeze bottles, or spatula from which all fluids, creams, and lotions shall be dispensed

(u) Waving fluid dispenser, where necessary;

(v) Automatic lathering device or devices; as necessary;

(w) Adequate supply of single-use, disposable implements/instruments as specified in §§ 202.1 and 204.2;

(x) Adequate supply of disinfected reusable implements/instruments, as specified in §§ 205 and 206;

(y) Adequate light capable of product twenty-five foot (25 ft) candles of light measured from the surface of work stations; and

(z) Bloodborne pathogen control kit.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 500
25-E DCMR § 501 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS AND SUPPLIES – BARBER FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS

501.1 Each facility shall be equipped with at least one (1) sink with running hot and cold water for general salon or shop purposes, and at least one (1) sink with running hot and cold water for shampoo purposes.

501.2 Each facility shall be equipped with an additional shampoo sink with running hot and cold water for each four (4) chairs beyond the first.

501.3 All shampoo sinks serving a chair or chairs, or shampoo booth or booths shall be equipped with shampoo fittings and trim.

501.4 Shampoo sinks, other than those in booths, shall not be spaced closer than four feet (4 ft.) center to center.

501.5 Each barber chair shall be stocked with the following supplies:

(a) Barber chair with head rest having a changeable cover;

(b) One (1) or more covered containers for disinfecting and fungicidal solution;

(c) One (1) closed cabinet for tools and clean linen;

(d) One (1) closed container for soiled linen;

(e) One (1) closed container for used papers;

(f) Automatic lathering device or devices; and

(g) Clean headrest covers and suitable dispensers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 501
25-E DCMR § 502 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS AND SUPPLIES – NAIL SALONS AND OPERATIONS

502.1 Licensees shall ensure all nail technicians, and all workstations are provided with safety equipment in accordance with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health

Administration (OSHA) respiratory protection program requirements, as follows:

(a) Ventilated manicure tables approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, for each individual who uses the work station;

(b) Properly fitted N-95, N-99, or N-100 respirator, approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, for each individual who uses

the workstation. All workers must use these respirators when buffing or filing nails or when using acrylic powder. Nail salon owners must comply with OSHA respiratory protection program requirements;

(c) Protective gloves made of latex, vinyl, nitrile, or another similar non-permeable hypoallergenic material for workers with sensitivity to nitrile gloves. Licensee shall maintain a sufficient supply of gloves so that each nail technician can use a new pair of gloves for each customer. All workers must wear gloves when handling potentially hazardous chemicals or waste and during cleanup, or when performing any nail service that has a risk of breaking the customer’s skin; and

(d) Protective eye equipment. All workers must wear eye protection when preparing, transferring, or pouring potentially hazardous chemicals.

502.2 Each facility shall be equipped with one (1) general purpose sink with running hot and cold water for every twelve (12) stations.

502.3 Each manicurist station shall be equipped with the following items:

(a) Manicuring stand, either stationary or movable, with a lamp;

(b) Closed cabinet or covered container for the storage of clean and disinfected manicuring instruments;

(c) Covered container of a size that will accommodate the instruments to be disinfected;

(d) Closed container for waste materials;

(e) At least two (2) complete sets of manicuring instruments;

(f) Additional facial or clasp exasperator masks upon request for customers; and

(g) One (1) additional general-purpose sink and one (1) additional hand sink with running hot and cold water for additional manicure stations beyond twelve (12) manicure stations.

502.4 All manicure and pedicure equipment that holds water shall be cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized after each client, as follows:

(a) Clean with a low-foaming soap or detergent with water to remove all visible debris; and

(b) Disinfect with an EPA-registered disinfectant and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions for at least ten (10) minutes. If the pipe-free foot spa has a foot plate, remove the foot plate and clean, rinse, and wipe dry the area beneath the foot plate.

502.5 At the end of each day of use, all filter screens in whirlpool pedicure spa systems and basins for all types of foot spas shall be disinfected, as follows:

(a) All visible debris in the screen and the inlet shall be removed and cleaned with a low-foaming soap or detergent and water;

(b) For pipe-free systems, the jet components or foot plate shall be removed and cleaned, including the removal of any debris, then proceed with the following procedures:

Completely immerse the screen, jet, or foot plate in an EPA-registered disinfectant and used according to the manufacturer’s

instructions and replaced after disinfection process is completed; and

(2) Flush the pipe-free system with warm water and low-foaming soap for five (5) minutes, rinse, and drain.

502.6 After completing the procedures specified in § 502.4 and 502.5, pedicure spa systems and basins shall be filled with clean water and the correct amount of an EPA-registered disinfectant, in which the solution shall be:

(a) Circulated through the pedicure spa system for ten (10) minutes and then turn the pedicure spa system off;

(b) The solution shall remain in the pedicure spa system or basin for at least six (6) to ten (10) hours before using the equipment again; and

(c) The pedicure spa system or basin is then drained and flushed with clean water.

502.7 In addition to the required end-of-day cleaning procedures specified in § 502.4 and 502.5, all pedicure spa systems and basins shall be disinfected on a weekly basis as follows:

(a) Pedicure spa systems and basins may be filled with a solution of water containing one (1) teaspoon of 5.25% bleach for each gallon of water; or

(b) Pedicure spa systems and basins may be filled with an alternative disinfectant that is an EPA registered Fungicide and Virucide; and

(c) The solution shall be circulated through the pedicure spa system for five (5) to ten (10) minutes and then the solution shall remain in the basin for at least six (6) hours. Before use, the pedicure spa system shall then be drained and flushed.

502.8 The licensee shall maintain a record or log book containing the dates and times of all pedicure cleaning and disinfection which is kept in the pedicure area and made available for review upon request by a consumer or the Department during an inspection.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 502
25-E DCMR § 503 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS AND SUPPLIES – ELECTROLOGY

503.1 In addition to the requirements in § 500, each electrology facility shall have the following equipment:

(a) An FDA registered needle-type and tweezer type epilator devices in working order;

(b) Clean and sterile, probes, forceps, tweezers and single-use needles;

(c) Needle holder tips;

(d) Professional treatment table or treatment chair with a non-porous surface capable of being disinfected;

(e) Non-disposable linens that are laundered, sanitized, and stored in closed containers or compartments, and covered sanitary containers for holding used non-disposable linens, where applicable;

(f) Disposable paper exam drapes stored in a closed container or compartment;

(g) Container for soiled disposable items shall be lined with a plastic bag and removed daily;

(h) Clean, non-sterile materials such as cotton balls, cotton strips, cotton swabs, gauze pads, and gauze strips;

(i) A treatment lamp capable of being cleaned and disinfectant, and maintained in good working condition;

(j) A magnifying lamp, optical loupe or microscope capable of being cleaned and disinfected, and maintained in good working condition;

(k) Tuberculocidal hospital grade disinfectant registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, household bleach or wiping cloths pre-saturated with disinfectant for wiping non-porous surfaces;

(l) If eye shields are used, eye shields capable of being cleaned with an EPA-registered disinfectant;

(m) Covered containers for probes, forceps, tweezers, and needles, which containers are capable of being cleaned and sterilized;

(n) An FDA-listed sterilizer (the endodontic dry heat “glass bead sterilizer” shall not be used for instrument sterilization);

(o) Records of sterilizer biological test monitoring that are available to the Department for inspection upon request, as specified in § 206;

(p) A holding container for soaking and cleaning contaminated instruments;

(q) Non-sterile disposable examination gloves;

(r) Private treatment rooms that are forty-five square feet (45 sq. ft.) of floor space as specified in § 302.2(b);

(s) One (1) sink with hot and cold running water in each treatment room;

(t) Adequate lighting, as specified in § 401;

(u) Adequate heating and ventilation, as specified in § 308;

(v) Maintained in sanitary condition;

(w) Clean lab coat or uniform; and

(x) Covered trash container in each treatment room.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 503
25-E DCMR § 504 ADDITIONAL STANDARDS AND SUPPLIES – FACIAL HAIR THREADING, EYELASH EXTENSION, EYEBROW TINTING, AND SIMILAR TRENDING COSMETOLOGY FACILITIES

504.1 In addition to §§ 200.5, 200.6, 200.7, 200.8, and 500, each facial hair threading, eyelash extension, eyebrow tinting, or similar trending cosmetology facilities shall have the following equipment:

(a) Sink with hot and cold running water through a single faucet for hand washing purposes only;

(b) Sink with hot and cold water provided for general salon purposes;

(c) Supplies of appropriate blood stopping agents, such as styptic powder, powdered alum, and astringents; and

(d) Adequate light capable of product twenty-five foot (25 ft) candles of light measured from the surface of work stations.

504.2 Each facial hair threading, eyelash extension, eyebrow tinting, or similar trending cosmetology service station shall be provided with the following supplies:

(a) All-purpose service chair with head rest, or treatment table having a changeable disposable cover;

(b) One (1) or more covered containers for disinfecting and fungicidal solution;

(c) One (1) closed cabinet for tools and clean linen;

(d) One (1) closed container for soiled linen;

(e) One (1) covered foot-operated container lined with disposable plastic bags for the daily removal of all waste materials such as: used gloves, paper supplies, cotton balls, and other noninfectious items;

(f) Clean headrest covers and suitable dispensers;

(g) Clean laundered non-disposable linens and drapes for each customer, single-use, disposable paper towels, and drapes for each customer, as necessary;

(h) A dispenser pump, spray-type container, squeeze bottles, or spatula from which all fluids, creams, and lotions shall be dispensed;

(i) Adequate supply of single-use, disposable implements/instruments as specified in §§ 202.1 and 204.2;

(j) Adequate supply of disinfected reusable implements/instruments, as specified in §§ 205 and 206; and

(k) Clean, non-sterile materials such as cotton balls, cotton strips, cotton swabs, gauze pads, and gauze strips.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 504

25-E6 APPLICATION AND LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS

25-E DCMR § 600 LICENSE AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS (Critical Section)

600.1 No person shall own, operate, or manage a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility without a valid license issued by the Mayor.

600.2 No person shall own, operate, or manage a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility with an expired or suspended license issue.

600.3 No person shall operate, or manage a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility without a current Certificate of Occupancy that specifies what services are to be provided.

600.4 No licensee shall employ or permit an unlicensed individual to provide barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming services, as defined in this Subtitle, in their facility.

600.5 No licensee shall employ or permit a barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer with an expired or suspended license to provide barbering, cosmetology, or person grooming services, as defined in this Subtitle, in their facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 600
25-E DCMR § 601 APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND ISSUANCE OF FACILITY LICENSE ─ EXISTING FACILITIES, LICENSE RENEWAL, AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

601.1 An applicant shall submit a written application for a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility on a form provided by the Department.

601.2 An applicant shall submit and maintain an active email address on a form provided by the Department.

601.3 An applicant shall submit an application to DCRA for construction, renovation, or remodeling of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility at least thirty (30) calendar days before the construction, renovation, or remodeling begins.

601.4 An applicant shall submit an application for a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility or thirty (30) calendar days before the expiration date of the current license for an existing facility.

601.5 The Department may renew a license for a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility or may issue a license to a new owner of an existing barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility after a properly completed application

is submitted, reviewed, and approved, the fees are paid, and an inspection shows

that the facility is in compliance with the Clean Hands Before Receiving a License or Permit Act of 1996, effective May 11, 1996 (D.C. Law 11-118; D.C. Official Code § 47-2861 et seq.).

601.6 A new application shall be filed with the Department within at least thirty (30) calendar days of any change in ownership or location. An applicant shall also notify the Department immediately if the applicant decides not to open, sell, or transfer a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility at the location identified in the application.

601.7 The Department shall submit a report of its findings to the applicant within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the completed plans are received.

601.8 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be corrected to comply with this Subtitle.

601.9 A licenses issued under this chapter shall expire two (2) years after the last day of the month in which it is issued.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 69 DCR 012443 (October 14, 2022). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 601
25-E DCMR § 602 APPLICATION PROCEDURES FOR FACILITY LICENSE ─ CONTENT OF THE APPLICATION PACKET

602.1 The Department shall not process an application for a new license, license renewal, or change in ownership or location when an applicant or licensee of a new or existing barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility owes more

than $100 in outstanding debt as a result of fines, penalties, or interest assessed to the District Government pursuant to the Clean Hands Before Receiving a License or Permit Act of 1996, effective May 11, 1996 (D.C. Law 11-118; D.C. Official Code § 47-2861 et seq.).

602.2 An application for a license to operate a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall include the full name(s) or any other names(s), including alias used by the applicant, and the following information:

(a) The present address, telephone number, and active email address of each applicant:

(1) If the applicant is an individual, the individual’s residential address;

(2) If the applicant is a corporation, the names, including aliases and residential addresses of each of the officers and directors of said corporation and each stock holder owning more than ten percent (10%) of the stock of the corporation, and the address of the corporation itself if it is different from the address of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility; or the address of the

partnership itself if different from the address of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility;

(3) If the applicant is a partnership, include names, aliases and residential addresses of each partner and limited partners, and the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility’s location;

(b) Name and address of registered agent in the District, pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 29-104.02, if applicable;

(c) The address and all telephone numbers of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility;

(d) Proof that the owner applicants are at least the age of majority by a Driver’s license, non-Driver’s license, or other Government issued identification that displays the applicant date of birth; and

(e) Type of facility and hours of operation.

602.3 The following documents shall be submitted with the licensee’s application for review to the Department:

(a) Current Certificate of Occupancy issued by DCRA;

(b) DCRA Salon Owners License;

(c) Applicable “Standard Operating Procedures” required in Chapter 5;

(d) A complete set of construction plans including all schedules, if applicable, shall be submitted electronically;

(e) Passing Preoperational Inspection Report for compliance with this Subtitle from the Department (no cost for the first Preoperational Inspection Report); and

(f) Copies of the facility’s Professional Services Contracts, as specified in § 404, if applicable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 602
25-E DCMR § 603 APPLICATION PROCEDURES – DENIAL OF FACILITY LICENSE, NOTICE

603.1 If an application for a new license or renewal license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew an existing license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s or licensee’s right to a hearing as prescribed in § 712.3 and 712.4.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 603
25-E DCMR § 604 ISSUANCE OF FACILITY LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

604.1 DCRA and the Department shall review and approve the submission of completed plans and specifications, as follows:

(a) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, electrical, construction materials, and finish schedules;

(b) Proposed equipment types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions, performance capacities, and installation specifications;

(c) A complete set of elevations and drawings for all custom fabricated equipment;

(d) Approvals from other District agencies during the construction or renovation, as necessary; and

(e) Licensees shall provide written Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan as specified in § 205.1.

604.2 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of this Subtitle, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or operator within thirty (30) business days of the date the completed plans are received.

604.3 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted to the Department shall be changed by the applicant or licensee to comply with this Subtitle or shall be deleted by the applicant or licensee from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 604
25-E DCMR § 605 ISSUANCE OF NEW AND RENEWAL FACILITY LICENSES ─ EXISTING FACILITY, NEW CONSTRUCTION, AND RENOVATION OF BARBER, COSMETOLOGY, AND PERSONAL GROOMING FACILITIES

605.1 An applicant or licensee shall submit properly prepared plans and specifications to the Department of Health for review and approval, as specified in § 604, at least thirty (30) calendar days before:

(a) Opening a new or existing barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility;

(b) Building a new barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility;

(c) Renovating or retrofitting an existing barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility; or

(d) Changing the type of barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility’s operation.

605.2 The Department shall issue a new or renew an existing license to a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility after determining through an inspection that the facility is in compliance with this Subtitle, and the applicant or licensee has:

(a) Submitted a properly completed application provided by the Department;

(b) Paid all required fees;

(c) Obtained required approvals of documents specified in §§ 601.5, 601.6, 602.3, 604, and this section, if applicable; and

(d) Passed a preoperational inspection required in § 609.1(a).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 605
25-E DCMR § 606 ISSUANCE OF FACILITY LICENSE – NOTICE OF OPENINGS, AND DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATIONS

606.1 Licensees shall provide notice to the Department of intent to operate a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

606.2 Licensees shall provide notice to the Department of intent to shut down permanently. A facility license and certificate of occupancy shall be returned to the Department and the licensee shall be required to submit a new application for the issuance of a new license prior to reopening.

606.3 Licensees shall notify the Department at least thirty (30) calendar days in advance of intent to close temporarily.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 606
25-E DCMR § 607 FACILITY LICENSES AND PERMITS NOT TRANSFERABLE

607.1 A facility license or permit to operate a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall not be transferred from one person to another person, from one facility to another facility, or from one location to another location even if owned, leased or operated by the same person.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 607
25-E DCMR § 608 REQUIRED POSTINGS

608.1 All licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, certifications, Department posted directives, and current inspection results shall be conspicuously posted near the entrance of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, except professional certifications which may be worn or displayed at the station.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 608
25-E DCMR § 609 ACCESS AND INSPECTIONS ─ DEPARTMENT’S RIGHT OF ENTRY (Critical Section)

609.1 The Department shall determine a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility’s compliance with this Subtitle by conducting:

(a) Preoperational inspections;

(b) Unannounced, routine inspections;

(c) Follow-up inspections, as necessary; and

(d) Complaint-generated inspections.

609.2 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with this

Subtitle, the applicant, licensee, or person-in-charge shall allow the Department

access to any part, portion, or area of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility.

609.3 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, including, but not limited to its physical facilities, operations, equipment, records, chemicals and other operational supplies, at any time during business hours for one or more of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is in compliance with this Subtitle;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency; or

(c) To obtain information, examine, and copy all records on the premises relating to reporting requirements as specified in §§ 209.1, 210.1(c), 211.1, and 212.1.

609.4 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or licensee is required to allow access to the District agencies as specified in § 609.2 and 609.3;

(b) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(c) The Department is making a final request for access.

609.5 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection as specified in § 609.2 and makes a final request for access as specified in § 609.4(c), and the applicant or licensee continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

609.6 If the Department is denied access to barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility for an authorized purpose, after complying with § 609.5, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license issued to the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility in accordance with §§ 707 through 711;

Revoke or suspend a license issued to the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility in accordance with § 712; or

Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court, to enforce this Subtitle.

609.7 Authorized representatives of the Department who are responsible for conducting inspections, plan reviews, and approvals of barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facilities shall be properly trained and certified as specified in § 200 of this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 609
25-E DCMR § 610 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR

CORRECTIONS

610.1 The Department shall specify on its inspection report the time frame for correction of violations as specified in §§ 617 and 619.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 610
25-E DCMR § 611 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

611.1 At the conclusion of an inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of its completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee and

request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the facility’s operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable regulatory provisions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 611
25-E DCMR § 612 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

612.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 612
25-E DCMR § 613 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ PUBLIC INFORMATION, RECORDS RETENTION

613.1 The Department shall keep and maintain in-office as an active record a copy of each inspection report, complaint, inspector’s environmental sample reports, license suspension, and other correspondence regarding a barber, cosmetology, or

personal grooming facility within the District for a period of one (1) year, and then as an inactive record for a period of two (2) additional years. Inactive records shall be destroyed in-house at the end of the two (2)-year inactive period.

613.2 In the case of an audit or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit or investigation has been completed.

613.3 The Department shall treat the inspection report as a public document and shall make it available for disclosure to a person who requests it as provided in the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code § 2-501 et seq.).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 613
25-E DCMR § 614 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARDS ─ CEASING FACILITY OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING (Critical Section)

614.1 The Department shall summarily suspend operations, or, a licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department, whenever barber,

cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is operating with any of the following conditions:

(a) Extensive fire damage that affects the facility’s ability to comply with this Subtitle;

(b) Serious flood damage that affects the facility’s ability to comply with this Subtitle;

(c) Loss of electrical power to critical systems, including but not limited to cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing equipment, lighting, heating, cooling, or ventilation controls;

(d) No water, or an unplanned water outage, or insufficient water capacity in violation of § 305.1(e);

(e) Incorrect hot water temperatures that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of § 306.3;

(f) Unapproved plumbing systems, or plumbing system supplying potable water that may result in cross-connection contamination of the potable water system in violation of § 305.1(c);

(g) A sewage backup or sewage that is not disposed of in an approved and sanitary manner in violation of § 305.1(b);

(h) A cross-connection between the potable water and non-potable water distribution systems, including but not limited to landscape irrigation, air conditioning, heating, or fire suppression system;

(i) A back siphonage event;

(j) Toilet facilities or sinks that are not properly designed, constructed, installed, or maintained in violation of the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(3) of this Subtitle;

(k) Mechanical and ventilation systems that are not properly designed, constructed, installed, or maintained in violation of the most recent versions of the District of Columbia Construction Codes, as specified in § 102.1(g)(2) of this Subtitle;

(l) Operating without following procedures to prevent contamination by not placing contaminated, reusable instruments or equipment in a labeled covered container containing an EPA-registered bactericidal, viricidal and

fungicidal until cleaned and disinfected in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions in violation of 25-E DCMR § 203.2 and 203.3;

(m) Gross unsanitary occurrence or condition that may endanger public health including but not limited to an infestation of vermin;

(n) Failing to maintain the premises of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility free of unnecessary items and litter in violation of §§ 402.1 through 402.6, 403.1, 403.2(a)–(c), and 403.3;

(o) Failing to minimize or eliminate the presence of insects, rodents, or other pests on the premises of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility premises in violation of 25-E DCMR § 403.4, and 403.5; or

(p) Operating a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility with a pet or other live animal on the premises in violation of 25-E DCMR § 403.6.

614.2 In addition to the imminent health hazards identified in § 614.1, the Department shall summarily suspend operations if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in § 609.1, the existence of any other condition which endangers the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to:

(a) Owning, operating, or managing a facility or performing a cosmetic procedure without a valid license issued by the Mayor in violation of § 600.1;

(b) Owning, operating, or managing a facility or performing cosmetic procedures with an expired or suspended license in violation of § 600.2;

(c) Owning, operating, or managing a facility without a valid Certificate of Occupancy in violation of § 600.3;

(d) Employing or allowing an unlicensed individual to provide barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming services in violation of § 600.4;

(e) Employing or allowing a barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer with an expired or suspended license to provide barbering, cosmetology, or person grooming services in violation of § 600.5;

(f) Operating a facility without a person-in-charge who is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of § 200.2 and 200.7;

(g) Operating a facility without a licensed barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer who is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of § 200.3;

(h) Failing to maintain records in violation of §§ 203.10, 205.1, 205.3, 208.1(d), (e), and (f), 209.1, 201.1(c), 211.1, 212.5 and 212.9;

(i) Failing to allow access to Department representatives during the facility’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department; or hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any

inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty in violation of § 609.6;

(j) Operating a facility without EPA-registered disinfectants or evidence that an EPA-registered disinfectant is not being used properly to thoroughly clean implement and equipment after each client in violation of 25-E DCMR §§ 203.5(a)(1) – (3), 203.10.10(a), 203.14, 306.13, 500.3(c) and (k), 502.3(b), 502.4(b)(1), and 503.1(l); or

(k) Operating in the absence of potable water supplied under pressure, in a quantity which, in the opinion of the Director of Health, is capable of meeting the needs of the facility. in violation of §§ 102.1(g)(3), 306.1, and 306.3.

614.3 When any of the conditions listed in §§ 610, 614.1, or 614.2 of this Subtitle exist, the Department may post a sign that states:

FACILITY CLOSED. This facility is closed until further notice by the Director of the Department of Health for imminent health hazard(s) in violation of § 614 of the District’s Barber, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facilities (Barber Shops, Beauty Shops, Braid Shops, Nail Salons) in Subtitle 25-E of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 614
25-E DCMR § 615 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARDS ─ RESTORATION OF FACILITY OPERATIONS (Critical Section)

615.1 If the facility is closed as specified in § 614, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department as specified in § 616 before resuming operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 615
25-E DCMR § 616 REQUESTS FOR REINSPECTION

616.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to § 707 or suspended or revoked pursuant to § 712 because of violations of this Subtitle, the licensee shall submit to the Department a written request for reinspection.

616.2 Upon receipt of a written request for reinspection, the Department shall perform the reinspection of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

616.3 A barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility shall not resume operations, use, sale or remove from the facility any equipment, chemicals or supplies, or remove from public view any Department posted closures, warnings, inspection

reports, or orders until the Department has re-inspected the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility and certified that it is in compliance with this Subtitle, as specified in §§ 615.1, 616.1, 616.2, 604, and 605.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 616
25-E DCMR § 617 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

617.1 A licensee shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation immediately when possible, except as specified in § 617.2.

617.2 Critical violations that cannot be corrected on-site during the course of an inspection shall be corrected within five (5) calendar days after the inspection.

617.3 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer time frame for correcting a violation.

617.4 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee to summary suspension of license pursuant to § 707, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to § 712, the issuance of Notice of Infractions pursuant to § 900, and civil penalties pursuant to § 901.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 617
25-E DCMR § 618 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE

618.1 When a critical violation is observed during the course of an inspection, the Department shall document the violation and identify the steps for correcting the violation in the inspection report.

618.2 After the time periods specified in § 617.2 or 617.3 for correcting a critical violation has expired, the Department shall conduct a follow-up inspection to determine if the critical violation has been corrected.

618.3 Critical violations not corrected within the time frame identified in § 617.2 or 617.3 shall be deemed repeat violations and are subject to administrative remedies as specified in Chapter 6 of this Subtitle, including additional fines and penalties for non-compliance in accordance with the Civil Infractions Act as specified in § 900.1 of this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 618
25-E DCMR § 619 NON-CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

619.1 The licensee shall correct non-critical violations within fourteen (14) calendar days after an inspection, except as specified in § 619.2.

619.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer time frame for correcting a violation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 619
25-E DCMR § 620 NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE

620.1 When a non-critical violation is observed during the course of an inspection, the Department shall document the violation and identify the steps for correcting the violation in the inspection report.

620.2 After the time periods specified in § 619.1 or 619.2 for correcting non-critical violations has expired, the Department may conduct a follow-up inspection to determine if the non-critical violation has been corrected.

620.3 Critical violations not corrected within the time frame identified in § 619.1 or 619.2 shall be deemed repeat violations and are subject to administrative remedies as specified in Chapter 6 of this Subtitle, including additional fines and penalties for non-compliance in accordance with the Civil Infractions Act, as specified in § 900.1 of this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 620

25-E7 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AND ORDERS

25-E DCMR § 700 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ REMEDIES, AND COLLECTING, EXAMINING, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF ENVIRONMENTAL SURFACES, AIR, CHEMICALS, AND PRODUCTS

700.1 The Department may use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter simultaneously to address a violation of this Subtitle.

700.2 The Department may collect, examine, sample, and test environmental surfaces, air, chemicals, and products, without cost, as necessary to determine compliance with this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 700
25-E DCMR § 701 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

701.1 A duly authorized agent of the Director of the Department of Health may condemn, embargo and cause to be removed any equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies found in a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility the use of which does not comply with this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 701
25-E DCMR § 702 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, CONTENTS

702.1 The condemnation or embargo order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, or other operational supplies under the condemnation or embargo order with reference to the applicable provisions of this Subtitle and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies subject to the condemnation or embargo order by the common name, the manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identifying information, and location;

(d) State that the Department of Health may order the destruction, replacement or removal of the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies; and

(e) That the licensee may request an informal conference in accordance with § 706.2. A request for an informal conference does not vacate the condemnation or embargo order issued by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 702
25-E DCMR § 703 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES

703.1 The Department of Health shall place a security seal, security label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation or embargo of equipment,

chemicals, or other operational supplies that do not meet the requirements of this Subtitle.

703.2 The security seal, security label, or other method used to identify the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies that are the subject of a condemnation or embargo order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in § 702 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 703
25-E DCMR § 704 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, EQUIPMENT, CHEMICALS, OR OTHER OPERATIONAL SUPPLIES AND PRODUCTS MAY NOT BE USED OR MOVED

704.1 Equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies and products that are subject to a condemnation or embargo order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in § 704.2.

704.2 The Department may allow the licensee to store the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies in an area of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility that does not restrict the facility’s operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 704
25-E DCMR § 705 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

705.1 No person shall remove Department posted signs, orders, security seals, security labels, or other appropriate markings except under the direction of the Department as specified in § 705.2.

705.2 The Department of Health shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation or embargo order and shall remove condemnation signs, orders, security seals, security labels, or other appropriate markings from equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies if:

(a) The licensee notifies the Department that the equipment, chemicals, or other operational supplies have been modified to meet NSF/ANSI or ASME/ANSI, EPA, OSHA, DOEE, DOES standards and the requirements of this Regulation;

(b) The Department has conducted a compliance re-inspection; or

(c) The condemnation or embargo order is vacated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 705
25-E DCMR § 706 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONDEMNATION OR EMBARGO ORDER, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

706.1 The Department may issue a condemnation or embargo order to a licensee without prior warning.

706.2 A condemnation or embargo order shall be reviewed by a Department supervisor or program manager prior to it being issued to a licensee.

706.3 Within fifteen (15) business days of receiving a condemnation or embargo order, a licensee may request an informal conference with the Department in writing by email, certified mail, or fax.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 706
25-E DCMR § 707 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF FACILITY LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

707.1 The Department may summarily suspend a facility license to operate a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, when the Department:

(a) Is denied access to a facility in violation of § 609; or

(b) Determines through an inspection, examination of records, or other means as specified in this Subtitle that an imminent health hazard exists, as specified in § 614.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 707
25-E DCMR § 708 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

708.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is suspended and that all operations shall cease immediately;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of this Subtitle that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department’s representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made; and

(d) State that the licensee may request an informal conference in accordance with § 709.2. A request for an informal conference does not stay the summary suspension order issued by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 708
25-E DCMR § 709 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

709.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in § 707 by providing written notice as specified in § 708 of the summary suspension to the licensee, without prior warning or informal conference.

709.2 A Notice of Summary Suspension shall be reviewed by a Department supervisor or program manager prior to being issued to a licensee.

709.3 A request by email, certified mail, or fax may be submitted by a licensee requesting an informal conference with the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 709
25-E DCMR § 710 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

710.1 After receiving a request by email, certified mail, or fax from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the barber, cosmetology, or personal

grooming facility for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the licensee’s request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 710
25-E DCMR § 711 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

711.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through reinspection, or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been corrected, as specified in §§ 615 or 616.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 711
25-E DCMR § 712 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTION ─ REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, OR DENIAL OF APPLICATION, OR RENEWAL OF LICENSE

712.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Subtitle shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued to a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility pursuant to § 4902(b) of the Department of Health

Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001 (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)).

712.2 The Department may revoke a license of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility where there is a record of subsequent repeat violations and a history of summary suspensions within a four (4) year period.

712.3 Before a license is revoked, or suspended, a licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in 1 DCMR § 2808.

712.4 Before the Department denies an application for license, or denies the renewal of a license as specified in § 603, an applicant or licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in 1 DCMR § 2808.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 712

25-E8 SERVICE OF PROCESS

25-E DCMR § 800 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, PROPER METHODS

800.1 A notice issued in accordance with this Subtitle shall be deemed properly served using either one (1) of the following methods:

(a) A Department representative, a law enforcement officer, or a person authorized to serve a civil process, personally services the notice to the licensee, person-in-charge, or the person operating a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility;

(b) The Department sends the notice to the registered agent or the last known address of the licensee or person operating a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, in accordance with section 205 of the Civil Infractions Act, or by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) In accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in 1 DCMR §§ 2811 or 2841.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 800
25-E DCMR § 801 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ DEPARTMENT ISSUED NOTICES OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION, NOTICES OF INFRACTION, AND OTHER DIRECTIVES

801.1 Notices of Summary Suspension, Notices of Infraction, and other directives issued by the Department shall be:

(a) Served as specified in § 800.1; or

(b) Posted by the Department in a conspicuous place near the entrance of the barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, as specified in § 608.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 801
25-E DCMR § 802 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, EFFECTIVENESS

802.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt as specified in § 801.1(a), or if service is made as specified in § 801.1(b) at the time of the notice is posted.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 802
25-E DCMR § 803 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

803.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee or person operating a barber,

cosmetology, or personal grooming facility without a license or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 803

25-E9 ADMINISTRATIVE AND CIVIL PENALTIES, JUDICIAL REVIEW AND DEFINITIONS

25-E DCMR § 900 NOTICE OF INFRACTIONS

900.1 The Department may impose civil infraction fines and penalties for violations of any provision of this Subtitle pursuant to the Civil Infractions Act.

900.2 A licensee who receives a Notice of Infraction as specified in § 800.1(c), may pay the assessed fine or appear before the Office of Administrative Hearings as directed on the reverse side of the Notice of Infraction in accordance with the “Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure” in 1 DCMR § 2808.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 900
25-E DCMR § 901 CIVIL FINES AND PENALTIES

901.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any owner of a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, or licensee for violation of any provision of this Subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 901
25-E DCMR § 902 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

902.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with § 4902(b) of the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001 (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 902
25-E DCMR § 903 FEES AND SERVICE SCHEDULE

903.1 The following fees apply to all barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities.

Services Fees

(a) Change in Ownership/ $ 200.00 per ownership /

Location/ Name per location / per name

(b) License Application Fees

(1) Facility License Application Fee $ 100.00

(2) Mobile Unit License Application

Fee $ 100.00

(3) School License Application Fee $ 100.00

(4) Initial License Application –

Facility / Mobile Unit / School

License Fee $ 150.00

(5) License Renewal Fee –

Facility / Mobile Unit

/ School $ 100.00

(c) Required Inspections

(1) Initial Inspection $ 200.00 per inspection

(2) Re-Inspection / Restoration

Fee During Business Hours $ 100.00 per inspection

(3) Re-Inspection / Restoration

Fee After Business Hours $ 400.00 per inspection

(d) Equipment Replacement

Review $ 150.00

(e) Plan Review Fee $ 300.00

903.2 If the Department determines that a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is operating without having completed the initial application process and without having received a license from the Department, an initial application fee will be assessed.

903.3 If the Department determines that a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility is operating without having received a pre-operational or change of ownership inspection, an initial inspection will be conducted, and associated fees will be assessed to the facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 69 DCR 012443 (October 14, 2022). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 903
25-E DCMR § 904 FEES – NON-REFUNDABLE

904.1 License fees shall not be prorated for licenses issued after the beginning of the license period.

904.2 Inspection, equipment replacement, and plan review fees are non-refundable and shall not be prorated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 69 DCR 012443 (October 14, 2022). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 904
25-E DCMR § 999 GENERAL PROVISION AND DEFINITIONS

999.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, unless the text or context of a particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

999.2 DEFINITIONS

Aesthetician – a person who practices the cleansing, stimulating, manipulating and beautifying of skin, with hands or mechanical or electrical apparatuses or appliances and gives treatments to keep skin healthy and attractive.

Alkaline glutaraldehyde – Glutaraldehyde-based agents are used to disinfect medical equipment that cannot be subjected to steam sterilization, specifically heat-sensitive, lensed devices typically requiring high-level disinfection between patient uses.

ANSI – American National Standards Institute

ASME – American Society of Mechanical Engineers

Autoclave – Pressurized, steam-heated vessel that sterilizes with high pressure and heat or pressurized steam preventing microorganisms from surviving.

Backpressure – occurs when the downstream water pressure is greater than the water supply pressure.

Back siphonage – the flowing back of used, contaminated, or polluted water from a plumbing fixture or vessel into a potable water supply because of negative pressure in the pipe.

Barber – any person who shaves, shapes or trims the beard; cuts, singes, or dyes the hair or applies lotions thereto; applies, treats or massages the face, neck or scalp with oils, creams, lotions, cosmetics, antiseptics, powders, clays or other preparations in connection with shaving, cutting or trimming the hair or beard, and practices barbering for compensation and when such services are not performed for the treatment of disease, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Barbering – any one of any combination of the following practices when done upon the head and neck for cosmetic purposes only, and when done for payment either directly or indirectly, or without payment for the public generally constitutes the practice of barbering within the meaning of this chapter. Barbering includes shaving and/or trimming the beard, cutting the hair of any person of either sex for compensation or other consideration, received by the person performing the service, as well as giving facial and scalp massage or treatments with oils creams, lotions, or other preparations either by hand or mechanical appliances; singeing, shampooing, or applying tonics to the hair; or applying cosmetic preparations, antiseptics, powders, oils, clays, or lotions, to the scalp, face, or neck. Barbering shall not include manicuring, electrology, braiding, or weaving of hair, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Barber School – any facility licensed to teach the art of barbering, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Barbershop – any building or portion of a building, station, or mobile unit in which any person is engaged in the practice of barbering, this term includes barber schools, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Beauty School – any facility licensed to teach the art of barbering or cosmetology, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Bloodborne pathogens – the presence of microorganisms in human blood and other bodily fluids that can cause disease. Bloodborne pathogens include the hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency syndrome.

Board – DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology.

Body wax treatment – to remove facial or body hair by covering the skin with a layer of wax that is peeled off after hardening, uprooting the encased hairs.

Braider – any licensed person who engages in the practice of forming human and synthetic hair into braids or other natural hairstyles without using chemicals, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Chemical – a product used in the salon for the provision of salon services and/or cleaning or disinfection. This includes, but is not limited to, polishes, glues, liquid monomers, acrylic powders, cleaners, disinfectants, sanitizers, alcohol, acetone, lacquer, nail polish remover, acrylic primer, nail hardener, cosmetics, and lotions.

Civil Infractions Act – the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1801.01 et seq.).

Clean – to wash with water and liquid soap, detergent, antiseptic, or other adequate means to remove all visible debris or residue.

Cleaning area – the area in a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility used in the decontamination, sterilization, sanitization or other cleaning of instruments or other equipment used in cosmetic procedures.

Cleaning products – any material used to apply cleansing agents to the skin, such as cotton balls, tissue and paper products, paper or plastic cups, disposable paper towels, gauze, or sanitary coverings.

Client – a customer, patron or other individual who receives or will receive salon services.

Communicable disease – a disease that can be transmitted from person to person directly or indirectly, including diseases transmitted via blood or body fluids.

Condemnation order – a written administrative notice: (1) to remove any cosmetic equipment or supplies, or (2) to cease conducting any particular procedures because the equipment or supplies are not being used or the procedures are not being conducted in accordance with the requirements of this Subtitle.

Contaminated – the presence or reasonably anticipated presence of blood, infectious materials or other types of impure materials that have corrupted a surface or item through contact.

Contaminated waste – any liquid or semi-liquid blood or other potentially infectious materials; contaminated items that would release blood or other potentially infectious materials in a liquid or semi-liquid state if compressed; items that are caked with dried blood or other potentially infectious materials and are capable of releasing these materials during handling; contaminated sharps and pathological and microbiological wastes containing blood and other potentially infectious materials, as defined in 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030, known as “Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens”.

Cosmetic Procedures – cosmetic plastic surgery includes surgical and nonsurgical procedures that enhance and reshape structures of the body to improve appearance and confidence.

Cosmetologist – a licensed person, whether as an owner, person-in-charge, operator, instructor, demonstrator, manicurist, or student, who engages in hair styling or the cosmetic arts, such as hair styling and skin care, and any other practice of cosmetology, including the practice of esthetics and other specialty cosmetology practices regulated by the Board, but does not include shaving or trimming the beard or moustache of an individual or engaging in the practice of master-level esthetics without obtaining the

applicable license, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Cosmetology – includes any or all work done for compensation by any person, which work is generally and usually performed by cosmetologists, which work is for the embellishment, cleanliness and beautification of the human

hair, such as arranging, braiding, dressing, curling, waving, permanent

waving, cleansing, cutting, singeing, bleaching, coloring, pressing, or

similar work thereon and thereabout, and the removal of superfluous hair,

and the massaging, cleansing, stimulating, manipulating, exercising, or

similar work upon the scalp, face, arms or hands, or the upper part of the body, by the use of mechanical or electrical apparatus or appliances or

cosmetics, preparations, tonics, antiseptics, creams or lotions, or by any other means, and of manicuring the nails, which enumerated practices shall be inclusive of the term cosmetology but not in limitation thereof. The term also includes the acts comprising the practice of nail technology,

natural hair braiding and esthetics.

DCRA – the District of Columbia Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations – 17 DCMR Chapter 37.

Decontamination – the use of physical or chemical means to remove, inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point where the pathogens are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.

Decontamination and sterilization area – a room, or specific section of a room, that is set apart and used only to maintain supplies, and to clean, decontaminate and sterilize instruments.

Department – District of Columbia Department of Health or DC Health.

Disinfectant – a chemical or physical agent used in the disinfection process. The following categories of chemicals and/or processes qualify as disinfectants under this definition:

(a) A properly functioning and verified autoclave or FDA listed dry heat sterilizer used according to manufacturer instructions;

(b) An EPA-registered bactericidal, fungicidal, and viricidal disinfectant (with the exception of formalin) used in accordance with manufacturer instructions;

(c) A 10% solution of chlorine bleach mixed with water (and no other chemicals); or

(d) Isopropyl alcohol used at 70% or greater concentration (for wiping surfaces) or immersion of tools for a minimum of ten (10) minutes.

However, ultraviolet light boxes are not an effective means of disinfection and may not be present in any salon.

Disinfection – a process that prevents infection by killing microorganisms on metal implements and non-porous surfaces using one or more of the defined disinfectants. Porous materials (pumice stones, sponges, wooden tools, etc.) may not be disinfected for reuse because they cannot be effectively cleaned and disinfected using chemical agents.

DOEE – the District of Columbia Department of Energy and the Environment.

DOES – the District of Columbia Department of Employment Services.

Dry Heat Sterilizer – an apparatus for sterilization utilizing dry heat listed with the United States Food and Drug Administration. This method should be used only for materials that might be damaged by moist heat. The advantages for dry heat include the following: it is nontoxic and does not harm the environment; a dry heat cabinet is easy to install and has relatively low operating costs; it penetrates materials; and it is noncorrosive for metal and sharp instruments. The slow rate of heat penetration and microbial killing makes this a time-consuming method, and the high temperatures may not be suitable for some materials. The most common time-temperature relationships for sterilization with hot air sterilizers are 170o C (340o F) for 60 minutes, 160o C (320o F) for 120 minutes, and 150o C (300o F) for 150 minutes.

Electrologist – any licensed person who engages in the practice of permanently removing unwanted hair with an electric current or short wave alternating current, or a combination thereof, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations (17 DCMR Chapter 37).

Electrology – as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Embargo order – a written administrative notice prohibiting the use, sell or removal of cosmetic equipment or supplies without written approval from the Department.

Endodontic – an endodontic dry heat sterilizer is a device intended to sterilize endodontic and other dental instruments by the application of dry heat. The heat is supplied through glass beads which have been heated by electricity.

EPA – the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

EPA-registered disinfectant – an antimicrobial pesticide regulated by EPA to destroy or suppress the growth of microorganisms on inanimate objects and surfaces. If a product claims to disinfect or sanitize microbes on a surface or object, it must have an EPA Registration Number and Establishment Number in accordance with 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030 for all combs, brushes, metallic instruments with a cutting edge, and implements that have come into contact with blood or body fluids.

Epilator – an electrical device used to remove hair by mechanically grasping multiple hairs simultaneously and pulling them out.

Esthetician – any licensed person who engages in the practice of applying creams, lotions, scrubs, polishes, waxes, cosmetics, eyelashes, and other beauty treatments directly onto the skin to bring about a temporary improvement in appearance, including superficial peels and microdermabrasion; and who may remove superfluous hair from the face and neck area of any person by the use of depilatories, waxing or tweezers, but does not include barbering or the branches of cosmetology of cosmetologist, braider, electrologist, or manicurist, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Esthetics – includes, but is not limited to, the following practices of administering cosmetic treatments to enhance or improve the appearance of the skin: cleansing, toning, performing effleurage or other related movements, stimulating, exfoliating, or performing any other similar procedure on the skin of the human body or scalp by means of cosmetic preparations, treatments, or any non-laser device, whether by electrical, mechanical, or manual means, for care of the skin; applying make-up or eyelashes to any person, tinting or perming eyelashes and eyebrows, and lightening hair on the body except the scalp; and removing unwanted hair from the body of any person by the use of any non-laser device, by tweezing, or by use of chemical or mechanical means.

Esthetician operator – a person who engages in the practice of basic esthetics for compensation, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Esthetics instructor – means a licensed master esthetician that has completed an approved instructor license curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of esthetics, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Exposure – an event whereby the eye, mouth or other mucous membrane, non-intact skin or parenteral contact with the blood or bodily fluids of another person, or contact of an eye, mouth or other mucous membrane, non-intact skin or parenteral contact with other potentially infectious matter.

Facility – any structure, venue, or mobile unit, whether temporary or permanent, where barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming is practiced and which is under the control of a licensee or used by a licensee independent of a licensed shop or salon, or under the control of a licensee or used by a licensee directly, or indirectly in connection with a licensed shop or salon. Barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facilities do not provide spa treatments or services such as therapeutic massage, sports massage,

aerobics, water-based relaxation therapies conducted in a basin, tub or pool, mineral baths, hot springs, steam rooms, or physical therapy.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with several missions, including protecting the public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices; and by ensuring the safety of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA-approved) antiseptic solution or ointments – Antimicrobial manicure and pedicure products that have been tested and deemed safe for use on consumers and are regulated by the FDA to reduce the number of microorganisms present on the skin.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA-approved) Instruments – sharps, such as, needles, needle bars, needle tubes, hemostats, forceps, pliers, and other items that may come in contact with a customer’s body or possible exposure to bodily fluids during barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming procedures.

Foot Bath – any basin (self-contained unit or connected to the nail salon’s plumbing) that holds water, circulating or not, for the purposes of soaking the client’s foot.

Germicidal soap – an agent designed for use on the skin that kills disease-causing microorganisms, including but not limited to, products containing povidone-iodine, chloroxylenol, triclosan, and chlorhexidine gluconate.

Germicidal solution – an agent that kills disease-causing microorganisms on hard surfaces; a disinfectant or sanitizer registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and/or a 1:100 dilution of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (household chlorine bleach) and water, made fresh daily, dispensed from a spray bottle, and used to decontaminate inanimate objects and surfaces.

Gloves – a covering for the hand worn for protection against cold or dirt and typically having separate parts for each finger and the thumb.

Hand sink – a lavatory equipped with hot and cold running water, under pressure and used solely for washing hands, arms or other portions of the body.

Implement – an instrument or tool, either disposable or reusable, used to provide nail salon services.

Infection control – the process for reducing the risk of spreading disease causing pathogens.

Infection Prevention Exposure Control Plan – a written action plan that specifies precautionary measures taken to manage and minimize potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens in the workplace.

Instructor – any person who is authorized to teach barbering, cosmetology, or any specialty cosmetology operator as a profession, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Licensee – an individual who owns, controls, or operates a barber, cosmetology, or personal grooming facility, including barber shops, beauty shops, and braid shops), whether or not the person actually performs any procedures.

Manicuring Station – the workstation where a manicurist performs salon services on individual clients, including such devices, chairs, tables, counters, and other equipment as may be necessary to provide such services.

Manicurist or Nail Technician – any person providing salon services upon the person of another, with or without monetary compensation. Any licensed person who engages in the practice of applying creams, lotions, scrubs, and polishes, and waxes to cosmetically treat the hands and feet as well as trimming, shaping, enhancing, and decorating the fingernails and toenails, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Medical-grade sharps container – a puncture-resistant, leak-proof, rigid container that can be closed for handling, storage, transportation, and disposal and is labeled with the International Biohazard Symbol:

Mucosal surface – the moisture-secreting membrane lining of all body cavities or passages that communicates with the exterior, including but not limited to the nose, mouth, vagina, and urethra.

Multi-Use Tool – an item constructed of hard materials with smooth non-porous surfaces such as metal, glass, or plastic that can be effectively cleaned and

disinfected for used on more than one client. The term includes but is not limited to such items as clippers, scissors, combs, nippers, manicure bowls, and some nail files.

Nail Salon – any facility, room, group of rooms, place of business, or premises licensed by the DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology, where salon services are performed on the person of another, with or without monetary compensation.

Nail technology – the practice of manicuring the nails of an individual, applying artificial or sculptured nails to an individual, massaging the hands of an individual or massaging the lower arms of an individual up to the individual’s elbow, massaging the feet of an individual or the lower legs of an individual up to the individual’s knee, or a combination of these acts.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – a research agency and part of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

National Science Foundation (NSF) – an independent federal agency created by Congress "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense…."

Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) – the part of the United States Department of Labor created by Congress to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working persons by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

Paraffin Treatment – a treatment for the symptoms of joint and muscle conditions, such as arthritis, that involves applying melted mineral wax derived from petroleum to a body area.

Pedicure equipment – any equipment that holds water, including sinks, bowls, basins, pipe-less spas, and whirlpool spas.

Pedicure – includes any of the following:

(a) Cleaning, trimming, softening, or caring for the nails, cuticles, or calluses of the feet;

(b) The use of manual instruments or implements on the nails, cuticles, or calluses of the feet;

(c) Callus removal by sanding, buffing, or filing; or

(d) Massaging of the feet or lower portion of the leg.

Permanent wall – a vertical continuous structure of wood, plaster, masonry, or other similar building material, which is physically connected to the floor and ceiling of a barber, cosmetology, and personal grooming facility, to

separate and protect the facility.

Person-in-Charge – a person who ensures all services provided within the facility comply with this Subtitle.

Personal grooming facilities – a room, booth, partitioned section, enclosure where body waxing can be performed, providing sufficient privacy for customers to don and doff their drapes or garments without being viewed by other customers, employees, or the public by any means, including electronic means or mirrors, and have locks or other means that allow for easy entry and /or exit by the customer.

Pre-sterilized instruments – instruments that are commercially sterilized and packaged by the manufacturer and bear a legible sterilization lot number and expiration date.

Procedure or procedural area – a room or designated portion of a room that is set apart and only used to perform barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming.

Procedure site – an area or location on the human body selected for the barbering, cosmetology, or personal grooming procedure.

Respirators – properly fitted N-95, N-99, or N-100 respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, for each individual who uses the workstation.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – a document that is supplied by the product manufacturer which explains the risks, precautions, and response actions related to exposure to a particular product or chemical used as an ingredient in a product. The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDSs) to communicate the hazards of hazardous chemical products.

Salon – a facility, shop, space, or mobile unit in which cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, electrology, manicuring, or braiding is practiced, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Salon Service - any practice carried out in a salon that includes, but is not limited to cutting, shaping, polishing, or otherwise enhancing the appearance of

the nails of the hands or feet, manicuring, pedicuring, callus removal and other skin treatment, waxing, eyelash extension, and eyebrow threading.

Sanitary – clean and free of agents of infection or disease.

Sanitization – reduction of the population of microorganisms to safe levels, as determined by the Department of Health, by a product registered with the

EPA or by chemical germicides that are registered with the EPA as hospital disinfectants.

Sanitized – effective bactericidal treatment by a process that provides sufficient concentration of chemicals for enough time to reduce the bacteria count including pathogens to a safe level on instruments, equipment, and animate objects.

Sharps – any sterile or contaminated object that penetrates the skin or mucosa, including but not limited to pre-sterilized disposable, single-use razor

blades; but not including disposable safety razors which have not broken the skin.

Single Use Tool or Material – a non-metal and/or porous item that is made or constructed of foam, cloth, wood, sponge, pumice stone, or other absorbent or porous gloves materials having rough surfaces which cannot be effectively cleaned and disinfected. Single use items include, but are not limited to, gloves, flip flops, toe separators, pumice stones, non-metal nail files, non-metal emery boards, buffers, buffing discs on electric files, wood and/or non-metal cuticle pushers, wooden wax applicator sticks, cotton balls, or tissues paper.

Sodium Hypochlorite (Household Bleach) – a crystalline chemical compound with the formula NaClO commonly known as “liquid bleach” when dissolved in water, is used as a disinfectant or bleaching agent.

Source Capture System – a mechanical air filtration and recirculation system, and exhaust system designed and constructed to capture air contaminants at their source and to exhaust such contaminants to the outdoor atmosphere shall be:

(a) Maintained and cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions; and

(b) Capable of:

(1) Filtering and recirculating air to inside space not less than 50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per acrylic nail station; or

(2) Exhausting not less than 50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per acrylic nail station.

Spa Treatments – services performed outside of the scope of licensure under this chapter that may require separate business or professional licensure under existing D.C. Official Code sections and other Titles of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations. Such services include but are not limited to therapeutic massage; sports massage; aerobics; water-based relaxation therapies conducted in a basin, tub, or pool; mineral baths; hot springs; steam rooms; and physical therapy, as defined in DCRA Board of Barber and Cosmetology Regulations.

Spores – a spore is a cell that certain fungi, plants (moss, ferns), and bacteria produce. Certain bacteria make spores to defend themselves. Spores have thick walls. They can resist high temperatures, humidity, and other environmental conditions.

Steam mixing valve – is a valve that blends hot water with cold water to ensure constant, safe shower and bath outlet temperatures, preventing scalding.

Sterilization – process of destruction of all forms of microbial life, including spores by physical or chemical means. Sterilization is accomplished by using an FDA-cleared device that employs heat or chemical action to destroy all potentially dangerous organisms.

Sterilize – the complete destruction of all microbial life, commonly achieved using heat and/or pressure.

Sterilizer – an autoclave that is designed and labeled by the manufacturer as a medical instrument sterilizer and is used for the destruction of microorganisms and their spores.

Universal Precautions – a set of guidelines and controls, published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as “guidelines for prevention of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B virus to health-care and public-safety workers” in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), June 23, 1989, Vol. 38, No. S-6, and as “recommendations for preventing transmission of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B virus to patients during exposure-

prone invasive procedures,” in MMWR, July 12, 1991, Vol. 40, No. RR-8.

This method of infection control requires the employer and the employee to assume that all human blood and specified human body fluids are infectious for HIV, HBV and other blood pathogens. Precautions include hand washing, gloving, personal protective equipment, injury prevention, and proper handling and disposal of needles, other sharp instruments, and blood and body fluid contaminated products.

Valid license or certification – a current facility license or professional certification issued by the Mayor that is not suspended, revoked, or expired.

Wax technician – any person licensed by the Board who removes hair from the hair follicle using a physical (wax) depilatory or by tweezing.

Wax technician instructor – a licensed wax technician who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of waxing.

Waxing – the temporary removal of superfluous hair from the hair follicle on any area of the human body using a physical (wax) depilatory or by tweezing.

Wet disinfection container – a tub or jar with a lid, filled with disinfectant and large enough for all items to be completely immersed.

Workstation – an area where a barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer area provides services. The workstation includes but is not limited to the customer’s chair or table, counter, mayo stand, instrument tray, storage drawer, and the barber, cosmetologist, or personal groomer’s chair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 68 DCR 013026 (December 10, 2021). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Barbering, Cosmetology, and Personal Grooming Facility Regulations 25-E DCMR § 999

25-F TANNING FACILITY REGULATIONS

25-F1 TITLE, INTENT, SCOPE

25-F DCMR § 100 TITLE ─ TANNING FACILITY REGULATIONS

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Tanning Facility Regulations hereinafter referred to as “these regulations.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 101 INTENT ─ SAFETY

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to protect the public health and safety by preventing and controlling the spread of communicable diseases; protecting the environment by promoting and regulating the safety and sanitary conditions of tanning facilities; and ensuring the safety and proper installation and servicing of equipment which uses ultraviolet radiation to artificially tan human skin.

101.2 These regulations:

(a) Minimize the risks associated with tanning using ultraviolet radiation by prescribing minimum standards for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of tanning facilities;

(b) Set standards for maintenance and replacement of equipment;

(c) Set standards for personnel and sanitary operations;

(d) Establish recordkeeping and reporting requirements;

(e) Establish prohibited conduct within tanning facilities;

(f) Establish operational standards;

(g) Provide for the issuance of licenses; and

(h) Provide for enforcement through inspections, suspension and revocation of licenses, and the issuance of fines and penalties; and

(i) Establish definitions for this subtitle.

101.3 These regulations do not apply to medical facilities’ phototherapy devices that are used by or under the supervision of licensed physicians or health care professionals who are trained in the use of such phototherapy devices in which patients are intentionally exposed to ultraviolet radiation for the treatment of diseases.

101.4 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance may result in injuries, spread of communicable diseases, or environmental health hazards. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

101.5 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to spread communicable diseases or create environmental health hazards. A section that is denoted in these regulations without an asterisk (*) after the head note is a noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a noncritical item with a superscripted letter “N” following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL AND DISTRICT LAWS

102.1 The Department shall use these regulations to promote the safeguarding of public health and ensure tanning facilities are safe and in compliance with Federal and District laws and regulations. The most current versions of the following District and Federal regulations are hereby incorporated by reference:

(a) The District of Columbia’s Construction Codes of 2008, consisting of the following International Code Council (ICC):

(1) International Building Code (2006 edition);

(2) International Mechanical Code (2006 edition);

(3) International Plumbing Code (2006 edition);

(4) International Fire Code (2006 edition);

(5) International Existing Building Code (2006 edition); and

(6) The NFPA National Electrical Code (2005 edition);

(b) Title 12 (Construction Codes) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations;

(c) 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20 (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products);

(d) 21 C.F.R. § 1010.3 (Performance Standards for Electronic Products: General, Identification); and

(e) 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1030 – Part 1910 (Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances).

102.2 In enforcing the provisions of these regulations, the Department shall assess a tanning facility’s physical structure, operating systems, and design; and operation and maintenance of facilities’ tanning equipment and devices, furnishings, and other fixtures in use before the effective date of these regulations based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the facility’s physical structure; operating systems, and design; and the facility’s tanning equipment and devices, furnishings, and other fixtures are safe to operate, in good repair, and capable of being maintained in a sanitary condition; and

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the licensee that the facility’s operating systems, or tanning equipment and devices, furnishings, and other fixtures will be replaced by an agreed upon date.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING

25-F DCMR § 200 LICENSEE RESPONSIBILITIES ─ MANAGER AND OPERATOR, CERTIFICATION AND DISTRICT-ISSUED ID REQUIRMENTS, BASIC KNOWLEDGE, ASSIGNMENT, AND POSTING*

200.1 The licensee shall ensure that tanning facility managers and operators are trained as specified in Section 200.4.

200.2 The licensee shall ensure that a manager or operator is on duty and present at the tanning facility during all hours of operation.

200.3 The licensee shall ensure that new employees hired to work as operators work under the direct supervision of a trained operator until the new employee is trained as specified in Section 200.4.

200.4 Training shall cover FDA and District regulations, eye protection, equipment and maintenance, and the following information:

(a) Requirements in this section and FDA requirements stated in 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20 (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products);

(b) Proper use of FDA Recommended Exposure Schedule;

(c) Proper procedures for sanitizing protective eyewear and tanning equipment;

(d) Proper procedures for the use of and the instruction in use of protective eyewear;

(e) Recognition of injury or overexposure to ultraviolet radiation;

(f) The tanning equipment manufacturer’s procedures for operation and maintenance of the tanning equipment or devices;

(g) Emergency procedures to be followed in case of an actual or alleged ultraviolet radiation injury;

(h) Biological effects of ultraviolet radiation, including the potential acute and long term health effects of ultraviolet radiation;

(i) Knowledge of potential photosensitizing agents, to include food, cosmetics and medications, and the possibility of photosensitivity and photoallergic reactions;

(j) The classification and determination of skin type of consumers, using the Fitzpatrick Scale;

(k) The human skin and the tanning process;

(l) Recordkeeping requirements as specified in §§ 303, 304, 305, and 306 of this subtitle;

(m) Determination of lamp equivalency;

(n) The types and wavelengths of ultraviolet light;

(o) General information and features of all types of commercial tanning equipment and devices; and

(p) The public health reasons for avoiding overexposure and the dangers of overexposure.

200.5 Documentation that managers and operators are trained as required in Section 200.4 shall be conspicuously posted in the tanning facility next to the tanning facility license. This documentation shall be removed when an individual is no longer employed on-site by the facility.

200.6 The licensee shall ensure managers obtain a required Department of Health (DOH)-Issued Tanning Facility Manager’s Identification Card (ID Card).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 201 LICENSEE RESPONSIBILITIES ─ SAFETY REQUIREMENTS AND TANNING PROCEDURES AND TEMPERATURE*

201.1 The licensee shall ensure managers and operators are knowledgeable in the correct use of all tanning devices on the premises so that they are able to inform and assist each customer in the proper use of the tanning devices.

201.2 Only one (1) customer may be in a tanning room at a time, with the following exceptions:

(a) If two (2) or more sunlamp products are used in the same room, in which case only those customers using the sunlamp products may be present in the room; and

(b) If a customer using a sunlamp product needs aid or assistance from another person, in which case that individual shall also be provided with, and wear, protective eyewear.

201.3 The licensee shall ensure the interior temperature of the tanning facility is controlled so that it does not exceed one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100 °F) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 °C)) at any time.

201.4 The licensee shall ensure tanning equipment and devices are maintained in good condition and are sanitized after each use.

201.5 The licensee shall ensure all protective eyewear is in optimal condition, properly sanitized, and provides adequate vision in accordance with its design.

201.6 The licensee shall ensure each customer receives instructions on how to use suitable physical aids, such as handrails and markings on the floor, to maintain proper exposure distance as recommended by the manufacturer of the tanning equipment or devices.

201.7 The licensee shall ensure timers on ultraviolet tanning equipment or devices are accurate within plus or minus ten percent (± 10%) of any selected time interval. The timer shall also be remotely located so that customers cannot set their own exposure time.

201.8 The licensee shall ensure each customer using ultraviolet tanning equipment or devices is limited to the maximum exposure time recommended by the manufacturer.

201.9 The licensee shall ensure during a customer’s initial visit, and at least annually thereafter, that each customer is provided with a copy of the “Warning Statement” identified in Section 302.4.

201.10 The licensee shall ensure customers have reviewed, signed, and dated the required Acknowledgment; that they have read and understood the “Warning Statement” provided to them by the facility, as specified in Subsections 201.09, 300.1, and 302.4, before using the facility’s tanning equipment or devices; and that they have agreed to use FDA compliant protective eyewear provided by the tanning facility or their own.

201.11 The licensee shall ensure that customers have submitted a signed and dated “Parental/Legal Guardian Authorization Form” provided to them by the facility before a minor’s use of the facility’s tanning equipment or devices as specified in Sections 300 and 301.

201.12 If the customer is illiterate, or visually impaired the licensee shall ensure that the “Warning Statement” and “Parental/Legal Guardian Authorization Form” have been read to the customer prior to the customer’s use or a customer’s minor child’s use of the facility’s tanning equipment or devices.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F3 STANDARD POLICIES & OPERATING PROCEDURES AND RECORDKEEPING

25-F DCMR § 300 POLICY & PROCEDURES ─ AGE RESTRICTIONS AND PROHIBITION, AND PARENTAL/LEGAL GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION*

300.1 The licensee shall require every customer who uses the facility’s tanning equipment and devices to sign an acknowledgement that he or she has:

(a) Received the required “Warning Statement” provided by the facility;

(b) Read and understood the required “Warning Statement” provided by the facility; and

(c) Agreed to use FDA compliant protective eyewear.

(d) [REPEALED].

300.2 The licensee shall prohibit a customer under 18 years of age from using ultraviolet tanning equipment or devices. Proof of age shall be satisfied with a driver’s license or other government or school-issued identification containing the customer’s photograph and date of birth.

300.3 [REPEALED].

300.4 [REPEALED].

300.5 [REPEALED].

300.6 [REPEALED].

300.7 [REPEALED].

300.8 The licensee shall not permit any infant or other minor in a tanning area where tanning equipment or devices are being used by a parent or legal guardian.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013); as amended by the Youth Tanning Safety Regulation Amendment Act of 2014, effective March 11, 2015 (D.C. Law 20-227; 62 DCR 259 (January 9, 2015)). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Tanning Facility Regulations 25-F DCMR § 300
25-F DCMR § 301 POLICY & PROCEDURES ─ AGE RESTRICTION SIGN AND POSTING*

301.1 A licensee shall conspicuously post an Age Restriction Sign at or near the reception area with the following text:

INDIVIDUALS 17 YEARS OF AGE AND YOUNGER ARE PROHIBITED FROM USING ULTRAVIOLET TANNING EQUIPMENT OR DEVICES.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013); as amended by the Youth Tanning Safety Regulation Amendment Act of 2014, effective March 11, 2015 (D.C. Law 20-227; 62 DCR 259 (January 9, 2015)). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Tanning Facility Regulations 25-F DCMR § 301
25-F DCMR § 302 POLICY & PROCEDURES ─ WARNING STATEMENT, CONTENT, AND POSTING*

302.1 During a customer’s initial visit, an operator shall advise a consumer that tanning indoors and outdoors on the same day, or tanning at multiple salons or other similar occurrences is hazardous to his or her health.

302.2 Operators shall remind each customer to consult their physician if the customer is taking any medication, has skin problems, or is sensitive to sunlight, certain foods, or cosmetics.

302.3 The licensee shall conspicuously post a “Warning Sign” as specified in Section 302.4, in the reception area next to the tanning facility District-issued license as specified in Section 804.4. The sign shall be readily legible, clearly visible, and not obstructed by any item for easy viewing by customers.

302.4 The lettering on the warning sign shall be at least five millimeters (5 mm) high for the word “WARNING”. All capital letters shall be at least five millimeters (5 mm) high and all lower case letters shall be at least three millimeters (3 mm) high. The warning sign shall read as follows:

WARNING

DANGER – ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION

Avoid too frequent or too lengthy exposure. As with natural sunlight, overexposure can cause eye and skin injury and allergic reactions. Repeat exposure can cause chronic sun damage, such as premature aging of the skin, which is characterized by wrinkling, dryness, fragility and bruising of the skin or skin cancer.

Wear Food and Drug Administration-Approved Protective Eyewear. Failure to wear protective eyewear may result in severe burns or long-term injury to the eyes.

Do not sunbathe before or after exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet radiation from tanning equipment or devices will aggravate the effects of the sun. So, do not sunbathe during the twenty-four (24) hours immediately before or immediately after using tanning equipment or devices.

Tanning indoors and outdoors on the same day, or tanning at multiple salons, or other similar occurrences is hazardous to your health.

Medications and cosmetics may increase your sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Consult a physician before using tanning equipment or devices if: (1) you are taking any medication; or (2) you have a history of skin problems, or believe that you are especially sensitive to sunlight, certain foods, or cosmetics.

Women who are pregnant or using birth control pills and who use tanning equipment or devices may develop discolored skin.

If you do not tan in the sun, you are unlikely to tan when exposed to a tanning device.

If you believe that you have been injured by this tanning device, you should contact: District of Columbia Department of Health, Radiation Protection Division, 899 North Capitol Street, N.E., 2nd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20002-4210, Telephone: (202) 724-8800.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 303 OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ RECORDKEEPING MANUAL, CONTENT*

303.1 The licensee shall maintain a procedural manual at the tanning facility which shall be available at all times to operators and the Department during inspections. Each licensee’s procedural manual shall maintain:

(a) Statements for customers who are illiterate or visually impaired and unable to sign their names in accordance with Subsection 201.12;

(b) [REPEALED].

(c) Warning Statement; and

(d) A record of each operator’s completion of training requirements.

303.2 Each tanning facility shall maintain on file each customer’s:

(a) Statements signed by the tanning facility’s staff for customers who are illiterate or visually impaired and unable to sign their names in accordance with Subsection 201.12, if applicable;

(b) [REPEALED].

(c) Written tanning profiles and consultations;

(d) Records of suitability for using tanning equipment; and

(e) Records showing the adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule, or the procedures used for determining if a consumer has exceeded the exposure schedule as provided in Subsections 200.4(b) and 200.4(k), including:

(1) Determining exposure times;

(2) Frequency of visits;

(3) Spacing of visits; and

(4) Maximum exposure time(s) in minutes.

303.3 All records of customers’ files shall be maintained for a minimum of three (3) years past the client’s age of majority.

303.4 Each tanning facility shall maintain:

(a) Maintenance records which identify the manufacturer, model and series number, and the date each tanning equipment or device was sold, leased, transferred, loaned, assembled, certified, recertified, upgraded, installed, serviced, or repaired, including but not limited to records of the:

(1) Frequency and dates of cleaning and sanitizing tanning equipment, tanning devices, and protective eyewear;

(2) Replacement of tanning lamps;

(3) Quarterly testing of tanning equipment timers and emergency off switches; and

(4) Calibration dates of tanning equipment and devices.

(b) A list of emergency contact numbers appropriate for the community in which it is located. The list shall be easily accessible and shall include, but is not limited to, contact numbers for:

(1) The nearest hospital;

(2) The nearest fire department; and

(3) Emergency 911 service.

303.5 All files identified in this section that are maintained electronically shall be frequently backed up and accessible from multiple locations, if applicable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013); as amended by the Youth Tanning Safety Regulation Amendment Act of 2014, effective March 11, 2015 (D.C. Law 20-227; 62 DCR 259 (January 9, 2015)). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Tanning Facility Regulations 25-F DCMR § 303
25-F DCMR § 304 OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ RECORDKEEPING, PURCHASE, MAINTENANCE, AND USERS’ INSTRUCTIONS

304.1 The licensee shall maintain the users’ instructions for each model of tanning equipment used at the tanning facility as stated in 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20(e)(1) (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products, instructions to be provided to users).

304.2 Users’ instructions shall be kept on file at the facility and shall be readily available for review by the tanning facility staff, as needed, and the Department upon request.

304.3 The licensee shall keep records showing the receipt, transfer, repair, and disposal of all equipment and devices on the premises.

304.4 Records which are maintained by the licensee on computer systems shall be copied at least monthly and updated on storage media other than the hard drive of the computer to ensure compliance with these regulations.

304.5 An electronic record shall be retrievable as a printed copy.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 305 OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ RECORDKEEPING, RETENTION

305.1 The licensee shall maintain records for at least three (3) years related to customers 18 years of age and older who used tanning equipment or devices at the facility. With respect to customers under 18 years of age who used tanning equipment or devices at the facility, the licensee shall maintain their records until they reach 21 years of age.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013); as amended by the Youth Tanning Safety Regulation Amendment Act of 2014, effective March 11, 2015 (D.C. Law 20-227; 62 DCR 259 (January 9, 2015)). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Tanning Facility Regulations 25-F DCMR § 305
25-F DCMR § 306 OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ RECORDKEEPING, REPORTS OF INJURIES

306.1 The licensee shall maintain an “Incident Log” of customers’ actual or alleged ultraviolet radiation injuries or other types of injuries.

306.2 The licensee shall submit to the Department a written report of actual or alleged injury from using the licensee’s tanning equipment or devices no later than five (5) business days after notification of actual or alleged injury.

306.3 The report shall include the following information:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the affected individual;

(b) Tanning facility’s name, location, telephone number, license number, and name of the operator on duty;

(c) Identification of the specific tanning equipment or devices involved;

(d) Nature of the actual or alleged injury, including the date and duration of exposure, and any other information relevant to the actual or alleged injury;

(e) If applicable, the medical attention sought, treatment, and the name of attending physician;

(f) Copies of the individual’s medical, skin, and exposure history;

(g) Steps taken to prevent recurrence of future injuries; and

(h) All information requested on the Department’s “Report of Injury Form.”

306.4 The licensee shall maintain all records or reports pertaining to actual or alleged injury at the facility for review until the Department authorizes their disposal.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F4 CONSTRUCTION, SANITATION & MAINTENANCE, PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION, AND WATER SOURCE, QUALITY AND CAPACITY

25-F DCMR § 400 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES*

400.1 The licensee shall use only tanning equipment and devices that comply with these regulations.

400.2 Tanning equipment and devices shall meet the National Fire Protection Association National Electrical Code and shall be provided with ground fault protection on the electrical circuit, or other methods for preventing shock.

400.3 Every tanning device used by a tanning facility shall comply with all applicable District and Federal laws and regulations, including those promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission and the United States Food and Drug Administration.

400.4 Each assembly of tanning equipment or devices shall be provided with an emergency shut-off mechanism on the tanning equipment or device to allow the consumer to manually terminate radiation emission from the equipment or device at any time without disconnecting the electrical plug or removing any ultraviolet lamp.

400.5 Each assembly of tanning equipment or devices shall be designed for use by only one (1) consumer at a time.

400.6 All tanning equipment or devices shall include physical barriers to protect consumers from injury induced by touching or breaking the lamps.

400.7 There shall be physical barriers around each tanning equipment or device which is in use to protect persons who are not using the device from line-of-sight accidental ultraviolet radiation exposure.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 401 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR

401.1 If a consumer does not provide compliant protective eyewear, the licensee shall have compliant protective eyewear available for the consumer to use during any use of tanning equipment.

401.2 The licensee shall not allow a consumer to use any tanning equipment if a consumer:

(a) Refuses to accept compliant protective eyewear offered by the licensee if he or she does not have his or her own; or

(b) Vocalizes a refusal to use compliant protective eyewear offered by the licensee or his or her own compliant protective eyewear.

401.3 The protective eyewear shall meet FDA requirements stated in 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20(c)(4) (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products, Protective eyewear).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 402 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, TIMER

402.1 Each assembly of tanning equipment and devices shall be equipped with a timer which complies with the requirements of 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20(c)(2) (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products, Timer system. The maximum timer interval shall not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum recommended exposure time).

402.2 The timer intervals shall be indicated in such a manner that it is consistent with the exposure times on the manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule.

402.3 No timer interval shall have an error exceeding plus or minus ten percent (± 10%) of the maximum timer interval for the product.

402.4 The timer may not automatically reset and cause radiation emission to resume for a period greater than the unused portion of the timer cycle when emission from the tanning device has been terminated.

402.5 All tanning equipment shall be provided with an override timer control installed outside of the room in which a tanning device is located.

402.6 The remote timer shall only be operated by a trained operator or other trained facility employee and shall be located so that the consumer cannot set or reset the consumer’s own exposure time.

402.7 The remote timer(s) shall comply with the requirements for timers as provided in this section.

402.8 New facilities shall install remote timers during the installation of tanning equipment or devices. Applications for change in ownership shall not be approved without proof of installation of remote timers.

402.9 Existing tanning equipment or devices not equipped with a remote timer control system shall have the remote timer(s) installed within one (1) year of the effective date of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 403 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING STAND-UP BOOTHS, CABINETS AND VERTICAL TANNING DEVICES – ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND TEMPERATURE*

403.1 Tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall have physical barriers or other means compliant with 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20 (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products, such as floor markings, to indicate the manufacturer’s recommended exposure distance between the ultraviolet lamps and the consumer’s skin).

403.2 The temperatures inside of enclosed tanning booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall be maintained below one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100 ºF) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 ºC)).

403.3 Tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall be constructed with sufficient strength and rigidity to withstand the stress of use and the impact of a falling person.

403.4 Access to tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall be of rigid construction with doors which are non-locking and open outwardly.

403.5 Tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall be constructed with non-slip floors to reduce the potential for injuries from falls.

403.6 The floor inside each tanning stand-up booth or cabinet or vertical tanning devices shall be constructed of easily cleanable surfaces and of such material, finish and so fabricated that residue may be effectively removed by normal cleaning methods.

403.7 The floor inside each tanning stand-up booth or cabinet or vertical tanning devices shall be cleaned and sanitized as specified in Section 408, and maintained in a non-slip manner as specified in Section 403.5.

403.8 Tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall be maintained in good condition as specified in Section 407.

403.9 Tanning stand-up booths or cabinets or vertical tanning devices shall comply with all applicable provisions of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 404 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, SUPPLIES, INSTALLATION, AND USE*

404.1 No person shall make, sell, lease, transfer, lend, repair, assemble, recertify, upgrade, or install tanning equipment, devices, or lamps or provide supplies used in connection with such equipment, devices or lamps unless such equipment, devices, lamps or supplies when properly installed and used meet the requirements specified in Sections 405, 406, 407, 408, and 409.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 405 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, AND SUPPLIES, BULBS, SHIELDING*

405.1 Each ultraviolet lamp contained within the sunlamp product shall be shielded by two (2) one-piece covers (top and bottom) without cracks or breaks in the acrylic surfaces to prevent contact with the user.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 406 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, AND SUPPLIES, REPLACEMENT, ULTRAVIOLET LAMPS, BULBS OR FILTERS, COMPATIBILITY*

406.1 The licensee shall only use lamps which have been certified by the FDA as “equivalent” lamps under the FDA regulations and policies applicable at the time of the replacement of the lamps. The format for the equivalency document shall be in compliance with 21 C.F.R. § 1040.20 (Sunlamp products and ultraviolet lamps intended for use in sunlamp products, and shall be in the form of user instructions).

406.2 The licensee shall maintain manufacturer’s literature demonstrating the equivalency of any replacement lamps that are not identified as original equipment. Manufacturer documentation shall be kept for all lamps in use at the facility and shall be readily available for Department review.

406.3 Defective lamps or filters shall be replaced before further use of the tanning equipment or devices.

406.4 Lamps and bulbs designated for medical use only shall not be used.

406.5 The licensee shall replace ultraviolet lamps, bulbs or filters as recommended by the manufacturer or as soon as they become defective or damaged.

406.6 Only lamps, bulbs, or filters that meet the requirements of the FDA for a particular tanning bed may be used in tanning facilities.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 407 MAINTENANCE ─ TANNING EQUIPMENT, TIMER, GOOD REPAIR AND ACCURATE CALIBRATION*

407.1 Tanning equipment and devices shall be maintained in good repair in order to prevent any mechanical safety hazards.

407.2 The licensee shall ensure that tests are performed quarterly on each assembly of tanning equipment or device and documented in writing to ensure that:

(a) The timer is accurately calibrated to within ten percent (10%) of the maximum timer interval for the product as specified in Section 402.3; and

(b) The consumer is able to terminate radiation emissions manually as specified in Section 400.4.

407.3 Maintenance tests shall include the date of the test, and the timer test shall include the indicated time versus the measured time.

407.4 The timer shall be tested at the tanning equipment manufacturer’s recommended maximum exposure time.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 408 CLEANING & SANITIZING ─ EQUIPMENT AND DEVICES, TABLES AND CHAIRS, AND TEST KITS

408.1 All tanning equipment and devices shall be constructed with a smooth, cleanable, nonabsorbent surface, and shall be cleaned and sanitized after each tanning session.

408.2 All tanning equipment and devices shall, between consumers, be wiped with a clean paper or cloth towel using a cleaning solution on all surfaces and then sanitized as specified in Sections 408.3 and 408.4 on any portion of the surface which may come in contact with a person’s body, after each tanning session.

408.3 All tanning equipment and devices, including required eyewear, shall be sanitized with a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered sanitizer in accordance with the EPA approved label that is specifically manufactured for sanitizing ultraviolet light emitting equipment, protective eyewear, and that does not damage the unit’s acrylic plastic surface.

408.4 A test kit or other device that accurately measures the concentration of the sanitizing solution in parts per million (ppm) shall be used to measure the strength of the sanitizing solution at least twice per day of tanning facility operation to ensure sufficient strength of the sanitizing solution.

  1. 5 Tanning facilities shall maintain adequate supplies for cleaning and sanitizing of all tanning equipment and devices.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 409 WATER SOURCE ─ APPROVED SYSTEM*

409.1 The only approved system for drinking water is the District of Columbia public water system.

409.2 A tanning facility shall not obtain water for its operations from a water system that is not the District of Columbia public water system.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 410 WATER SOURCE ─ BOTTLED DRINKING WATER*

410.1 Bottled drinking water used in a tanning facility shall be obtained from approved sources in accordance with 21 C.F.R. § 129.1 (Current good manufacturing practice).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 411 WATER QUALITY ─ STANDARDS*

411.1 Water from a public water system or potable water shall meet the requirements of the applicable provisions of 40 C.F.R. Part 141 (National Primary Drinking Water Regulations), and District of Columbia drinking water quality standards.

411.2 Potable water shall be used for drinking and sanitizing of tanning equipment and devices.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 412 WATER CAPACITY ─ QUANTITY AND AVAILABILITY

412.1 The water source and system shall be of sufficient capacity to meet the water demands of the tanning facility.

412.2 Hot water generation and distribution systems shall be sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the tanning facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F5 PLUMBING SYSTEM

25-F DCMR § 500 MATERIALS ─ APPROVED MATERIALS, USE*

500.1 Each tanning facility’s plumbing system and hoses conveying water shall be constructed and repaired with approved materials according to the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

500.2 Each tanning facility’s water filter shall be made of safe materials.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 501 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ APPROVED SYSTEM AND CLEANABLE FIXTURES*

501.1 Each tanning facility’s plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, and installed according to the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

501.2 Each tanning facility’s plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, installed, and maintained according to the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and shall be of sufficient size to:

(a) Properly convey sewage and liquid disposable waste from the premises;

(b) Avoid creating any unsanitary condition or constituting a source of contamination to potable water, tanning equipment, and devices; and

(c) Provide sufficient floor drainage to prevent excessive pooling of water or other disposable waste in all areas where floors are subject to flooding- type cleaning or where normal operations release or discharge water or other liquid waste on the floor.

501.3 Each plumbing fixture such as a handwashing facility, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable.N

501.4 Each tanning facility shall be equipped with effective plumbing and sewage facilities and adequate accommodations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 502 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND INSTALLATION ─ HANDWASHING SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW

502.1 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms, shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100 °F) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 °C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

502.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

502.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

502.4 Any automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 503 HANDWASHING SINKS ─ HANDWASHING CLEANSER, AVAILABILITY, HAND DRYING PROVISION, AND HANDWASHING SIGNAGE

503.1 An automatic handwashing facility may be substituted for a handwashing sink in a tanning facility that has at least one (1) handwashing sink.

503.2 An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

503.3 Each handwashing sink or group of two (2) adjacent sinks shall be provided with hand cleaning liquid or powder.

503.4 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with:

(a) Individual, disposable towels; or

(b) A heated-air, hand-drying device.

503.5 A sign or poster that notifies employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 504 HANDWASHING SINKS ─ DISPOSABLE TOWELS, WASTE RECEPTACLE

504.1 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is supplied with disposable towels or suitable drying devices shall be provided with a waste receptacle as specified in Subsections 507.2 and 507.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 505 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION – TOILETS AND URINALS, ENCLOSED

505.1 Toilet facilities shall be provided in accordance with Section 506 and the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

505.2 A toilet room located on the premises shall be completely enclosed and provided with a tight-fitting and self-closing door, except that this requirement does not apply to a toilet room that is located outside a tanning facility.

505.3 Toilet room doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 506 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ NUMBER, CAPACITY, CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY, PROHIBITION*

506.1 Each tanning facility shall maintain toilet facilities for employees, which shall consist of a toilet room or toilet rooms with proper and sufficient water closets and lavatories. Toilet facilities shall be conveniently located and readily accessible to all personnel and customers.

506.2 Toilets and urinals provided for employees’ use shall be in accordance with the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations. Urinals may be substituted for toilets if the substitution is approved by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and the Department.

506.3 The licensee shall, at a minimum:

(a) Maintain the toilet facilities in a sanitary condition that is clean and free of trash and litter;

(b) Keep the facilities in good repair at all times; and

(c) Provide self-closing doors.

506.4 All single-stall toilet rooms shall display gender-neutral signs on the door that read “Restroom,” or have a universally recognized pictorial indicating that persons of any gender may use each restroom, in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2007 Repl)).

506.5 Tanning facilities employing:

(a) Five (5) or fewer employees may provide only a single toilet facility with a gender-neutral sign on the door in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2007 Repl); or

(b) More than five (5) employees shall have multiple toilet facilities that are either:

(1) Single-stall toilet rooms with a gender-neutral sign on each door as specified in Section 3101.2 in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, effective December 13, 1977 (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2007 Repl.); or

(2) Multiple-stall toilet rooms with gender-specific signs on the doors that read “Men” and “Women” or contain gender-specific, universally recognized pictorials of “Men” and “Women”.

506.6 When locker rooms are provided, there shall be both a male and female locker room available, unless the facility is specifically designated for one (1) gender or the other.

506.7 If the tanning facility serves only one (1) gender, a restroom shall be made available for employees of the opposite gender.

506.8 Toilet facilities shall be deemed conveniently located and accessible to employees during all hours of operation if they are:

(a) Located within the same building as the business they serve; and

(b) Accessible during working hours without going outside the building.

506.9 At no time shall consumers or employees of one (1) gender enter the bathroom, restroom, or locker room of the other gender, except for routine clean-up after all of the consumers are gone or there is a maintenance emergency that cannot be handled by an employee of the same gender as belongs to the restroom, bathroom, or locker room.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 507 TOILETS AND URINALS ─ TOILET TISSUE, RECEPTACLE COVERED AND AVAILABLE

507.1 The licensee shall provide a supply of toilet tissue at each toilet.

507.2 The licensee shall provide a waste receptacle in each toilet room.

507.3 The licensee shall provide a covered receptacle for feminine hygiene products in any toilet room used by females.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 508 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ─ SYSTEM MAINTAINED IN GOOD REPAIR*

508.1 Each tanning facility’s plumbing system shall be:

(a) Repaired according to the International Plumbing Code (2006 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations; and

(b) Maintained in good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F6 PHYSICAL FACILITIES DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, CLEANABILITY, SANITATION, AND MAINTENANCE

25-F DCMR § 600 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION ─ BUILDING MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP

600.1 The licensee of a newly constructed, remodeled or renovated tanning facility shall ensure that the design, construction, building materials, and workmanship complies with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, as specified in Section 102.1(a) of this chapter.

600.2 The licensee of an existing tanning facility shall maintain in good condition the physical integrity of its tanning facility by repairing or replacing structural or design defects, operating systems, or fixtures in use before the effective date of these regulations in accordance with the District’s Construction Codes of 2008, as specified in Section 102.1.

600.3 At least thirty (30) days before beginning construction or remodeling of a tanning facility, the licensee shall submit construction plans with all schedules, including but not limited to floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics, to the Department for review and approval, as specified in Section 806.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 601 DESIGN & INSTALLATION ─ LIGHTING AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES*

601.1 All rooms of a tanning facility shall have at least one (1) electrical source of light. Lighting luminaries and fixtures may be of incandescent, fluorescent, high density discharge, or light emitting dial (LED) types.

601.2 At least fifty (50) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each area and the laundry area.

601.3 At least twenty (20) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each restroom, locker room, toilet room, or other areas when fully illuminated for cleaning.

601.4 An average illumination value of ten (10) foot-candles of light, but never less than seven and a half (7.5) foot-candles of light, shall be provided in other areas within a tanning facility, including tanning rooms, offices, lobbies, retail shops, and waiting areas.

601.5 The above illumination levels shall be attainable at all times while the tanning facility is occupied, except as specified in Section 601.6.

601.6 Lighting may be dimmed during a tanning session so long as there is enough light to safely see or to leave the room in case of an emergency.

601.7 No tanning facility shall be equipped with tinted windows or two-way mirrors in any room therein.

601.8 No tanning facility shall be equipped with any electronic, mechanical, or artificial device used or capable of being used for recording either audio or video activities, conversations, or other sounds in tanning rooms or any other room used by customers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 602 DESIGN & INSTALLATION ─ SMOKE ALARMS

602.1 Each distinct area of a tanning facility separated by a doorway, whether or not a door is currently present, shall be equipped with at least one (1) working smoke alarm which is installed, maintained, and tested according to the International Fire Code (2008 edition), (D.C. Fire Code Supplement) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

602.2 The smoke alarm shall be free of foreign matter such as tape or paint which could impair its proper function.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 603 DESIGN & INSTALLATION ─ HEATING AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS AND POSTING*

603.1 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be adequately ventilated so that excessive moisture is removed from the room. Acceptable ventilation includes mechanical exhaust ventilation, a recirculating vent, or screened windows.

603.2 Each system for heating, cooling, or ventilation shall be properly maintained and operational at all times when the rooms are occupied.

603.3 Every tanning room within the facility shall have a thermometer mounted at five feet (5 ft.) above the floor. Adjacent to the thermometer shall be a sign that states: Patrons shall not tan if room temperature is at one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100 °F) or (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 °C)) or higher. Please report excessive heat to the operator immediately.

603.4 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be capable of being maintained at a temperature between sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (68 °F) (twenty degrees Celsius (20 °C)) and eighty degrees Fahrenheit (80 °F) (twenty-seven degrees Celsius (27 °C)) while being used by customers.

603.5 The use of portable space heaters is prohibited.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 604 CONSTRUCTION & INSTALLATION ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

604.1 All floors, floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable, except that antislip floor coverings or applications may be used for safety reasons.

604.2 The floors in bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms that are next to showers or toilets, or any other wet areas, shall be constructed of smooth, durable, nonabsorbent, and easily cleanable material.

604.3 Every concrete, tile, ceramic, or vinyl floor installed in bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms, which are next to showers or toilets, shall be covered at the junctures between the floor and the walls.

604.4 All material used to cover the junctures shall be fitted snugly to the floor and the walls so that they are water tight and there are not openings large enough to permit the entrance of vermin.

604.5 The material used in constructing the walls and ceilings must be joined along their edges so as to leave no open spaces or cracks.

604.6 Tanning rooms shall be constructed and maintained to provide client privacy.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 605 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

605.1 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed.

605.2 Exposed utility service lines and pipes shall be installed so they do not obstruct or prevent cleaning of the floors, walls, or ceilings.

605.3 Exposed horizontal utility service lines and pipes shall not be installed on the floor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 606 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTURES, COVERED, AND ENCLOSED OR SEALED

606.1 Floor and wall junctures shall be covered and closed to no larger than one millimeter (1 mm.) or one thirty-second of an inch (1/32 in.).

606.2 Covering of floor and wall junctures shall be sealed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 607 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR CARPETING, RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION

607.1 A floor covering such as carpeting or similar material shall not be installed as a floor covering in toilet room areas where handwashing sinks, toilets, or urinals are located; refuse storage rooms; or other areas where the floor is subject to moisture.

607.2 If carpeting is installed as a floor covering in areas other than those specified in Section 607.1, it shall be:

(a) Securely attached to the floor with a durable mastic, by using a stretch and tack method, or by another similar method; and

(b) Installed tightly against the wall under the coving or installed away from the wall with a space between the carpet and the wall and with the edges of the carpet secured by metal stripping or some other means.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 608 CLEANABILITY ─ FLOOR COVERING, MATS AND DUCKBOARDS

608.1 The licensee or manager shall inspect the premises prior to each consumer’s use to ensure that the floors are dry.

608.2 Mats and duckboards shall be designed to be removable and easily cleanable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 609 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ MAINTENANCE, FLOORS, PUBLIC AREAS

609.1 The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair and cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

609.2 Every floor and floor covering, shall be kept clean and in good repair, sanitized, or replaced so that it does not become a hazard to health or safety.

609.3 All public areas of a tanning facility, such as the lobbies and merchandising and retail areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, free of litter, rubbish, and nuisances.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 610 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CLEANABILITY, SANITIZATION AND MAINTENANCE OF PLUMBING FIXTURES

610.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and well-maintained.

610.2 All tanning facilities shall be equipped with toilet facilities, which include a water closet and handwashing sinks, including hot and cold running water, hand cleaning liquid or powder, and a paper towel dispenser or equivalent hand drying equipment.

610.3 All restrooms shall be kept in sanitary condition and good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 611 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ MAINTAINING PREMISES, UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND LITTER

611.1 The grounds surrounding a tanning facility under the control of the licensee shall be kept in a clean and litter-free condition.

611.2 The methods for adequate maintenance of grounds include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Properly storing or removing unnecessary equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used, removing litter and waste, and cutting weeds or grass within the immediate vicinity of the physical facility that may constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests;

(b) Maintaining roads and parking lots so that they do not constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests; and

(c) Adequately draining areas that may provide an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests.

611.3 If the tanning facility’s grounds are bordered by grounds not under the operator's control and not maintained in the manner described in Sections 611.1 and 611.2, care shall be exercised by the licensee through inspection, extermination, or other means to exclude pests, dirt, and filth that may become an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests.

611.4 Methods for maintaining a sanitary operation include providing sufficient space for placement and storage of equipment and linens.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 612 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ CONTROLLING PESTS*

612.1 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to eliminate their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests;N

(b) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control as specified in Sections 612 and 613; and

(c) Eliminating harborage conditions.N

612.2 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed pest exterminator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of pest extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) The date on which pest extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 613 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ REMOVING DEAD OR TRAPPED BIRDS, INSECTS, RODENTS, AND OTHER PESTS

613.1 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from a trap or the traps shall be discarded from the premises at a frequency that prevents accumulation, decomposition, or the attraction of other pests.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 614 PHYSICAL FACILITIES ─ PROHIBITING ANIMALS*

614.1 Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas or dogs providing assistance to individuals with physical handicaps may be allowed in a tanning facility if the presence of the animals does not result in contamination of tanning equipment, devices, or supplies.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F7 REFUSE, RECEPTACLES, STORAGE AND REMOVAL

25-F DCMR § 700 REFUSE FACILITIES ON PREMISES ─ RECEPTACLES, STORAGE AREAS, GOOD REPAIR, AND OUTSIDE STORAGE AREAS & REMOVAL FREQUENCY

700.1 An inside storage room or area, outside storage area or enclosure, and receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the refuse that accumulate.

700.2 Plastic bags and wet strength paper bags may be used to line receptacles for storage inside the tanning facility or within closed containers in outside receptacles.

700.3 Receptacles and waste handling units shall be designed and constructed with tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers.

700.4 Receptacles and waste handling units shall be durable, cleanable, insect- and rodent-resistant, leakproof, nonabsorbent, and maintained in good repair.

700.5 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials and shall be located so that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

700.6 An outdoor storage surface for refuse shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

700.7 Storage areas, enclosures, and receptacles for refuse shall be maintained in good repair.

700.8 Storage areas and enclosures for refuse shall be kept clean and maintained free of unnecessary items, as specified in Section 611.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 701 REMOVAL FREQUENCY

701.1 The licensee shall maintain a copy of the facility’s professional service contract which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its District-licensed trash or solid waste contractor;

(b) Duration of the contract; and

(c) Frequency of trash or solid waste collection services provided under the contract.

701.2 Trash or solid waste collection shall comply with Title 21, Chapter 7 of the DCMR.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F8 COMPLIANCE, ENFORCEMENT AND DEFINITIONS

25-F DCMR § 800 LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ─ PREREQUISITES FOR OPERATING, VENDING, OR MANAGING, OR TRAINING*

800.1 No person shall own, open, or operate a tanning facility in the District without a tanning facility license issued by the Mayor.

800.2 No person shall own, open, or operate a tanning facility in the District with an expired or suspended license.

800.3 No person shall open, or operate a tanning facility in the District without a valid Certificate of Occupancy;

800.4 Except for routine maintenance such as required cleaning and sanitizing of tanning equipment and replacement of bulbs as specified in Sections 406 and 408 by a facility’s manager, operator or trained employee, no person shall sell, lease, transfer, loan, assemble, certify, recertify, upgrade, install, service, or repair tanning equipment or devices in the District without a valid tanning service provider registration issued by the Mayor.

800.5 No person shall furnish or offer to furnish tanning equipment, devices, or associated components, such as bulbs and filters, in the District without a valid tanning service provider registration issued by the Mayor.

800.6 No licensee shall use a tanning service provider company unless such company possesses a valid tanning service provider registration issued by the Mayor as specified in Section 800.4.

800.7 No person shall manage a tanning facility in the District without obtaining a valid District-issued Tanning Facility Manager Identification Card issued by the Department as specified in Section 200.6.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 801 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ PERIOD AND FORM OF SUBMISSION, PROCESSING

801.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a tanning facility or at least thirty (30) calendar days before the expiration date of the current license for an existing tanning facility.

801.2 Licenses shall be valid for a two (2) year period.

801.3 License fees shall be prorated for licenses issued after the beginning of the license period.

801.4 An applicant shall submit a written application for a license or tanning service provider registration on a form provided by the Department.

801.5 A new application shall be filed with the Department within thirty (30) days of any change in ownership or location. A licensee shall also notify the Department at least thirty (30) calendar days before permanently or temporarily discontinuing operations.

801.6 The Department shall not process applications for a change in ownership or location where administrative actions are pending against an existing facility that has not been resolved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 802 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION PACKET

802.1 An application for a license to operate a tanning facility shall include the full name(s), true name(s) or any other name(s) used by the applicant, and the following information:

(a) The present address and telephone number of each applicant:

(1) If the applicant is an individual, the individual’s home address;

(2) If the applicant is a corporation, the names and residence addresses of each of the officers and directors of said corporation and each stock holder owning more than ten percent (10%) of the stock of the corporation, and the address of the corporation itself if it is different from the address of the tanning facility; or

(3) If the applicant is a partnership, the names and residence addresses of each partner, including limited partners, and the address of the partnership itself if different from the address of the tanning facility.

(b) Each applicant’s signature;

(c) Name and address of registered agent, if applicable;

(d) The location, mailing address, and all telephone numbers where the business is to be conducted;

(e) Proof that the applicant is at least the age of majority;

(f) Driver’s license or Government ID with the date of birth of each applicant; and

(g) A complete set of construction plans including all schedules (for example, floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics), if applicable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 803 DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE ─ NOTICE

803.1 If an application for a license or a renewal of a license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew a license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s right to a hearing and the process and timeframes for appeal as prescribed in Chapter 13 of this subtitle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 804 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTING

804.1 A tanning facility shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to operate at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

804.2 A tanning facility shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently or temporarily at least thirty (30) calendar days before discontinuing operations.

804.3 If a tanning facility is closed for more than a thirty (30) day period, the tanning facility’s license and certificate of occupancy shall be returned to the Department and the owner shall be required to submit a new application as specified in Section 801.5 for the issuance of a new license prior to reopening.

804.4 A current inspection report, and all valid licenses, Certificate of Occupancy and “Warning Statements” required in Sections 302.3, 800.1, 800.2 and 800.3, and shall be conspicuously posted in the reception area next to the tanning facility’s license.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 805 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ NEW, CONVERTED OR REMODELED, EXISTING OPERATIONS AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR LOCATION

805.1 Each applicant shall submit:

(a) A properly completed application packet provided by the Department;

(b) Copies of all operating and safety procedures unique to the facility’s operation;

(c) Copies of each manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule and the recommended supplies such as lamps and filters for each model of tanning equipment and devices;

(d) Copies of the maintenance records as specified in Section 303 for license renewals;

(e) Proof of payment of the application and license fees; and

(f) Proof of the Department’s review and approval of required plans and specifications as specified in Section 806, if applicable.

805.2 If the applicant meets the qualifications as specified in Section 802 and the Department determines through its inspection as specified in Section 807 that the operation is in compliance with these regulations, the Department shall approve:

(a) A new tanning facility;

(b) An existing tanning facility that has changed ownership or location; or

(c) An existing tanning facility’s license renewal.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 806 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

806.1 A license applicant or licensee shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) The construction of a tanning facility;

(b) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a tanning facility; or

(c) Major renovation, remodeling, or alteration of a tanning facility if the Department determines that plans and specifications are necessary to ensure compliance with these regulations.

806.2 Plans required by this section shall include specifications showing layout, arrangement, and construction materials, and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.

806.3 Plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee shall be submitted at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a facility.

806.4 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of these regulations, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or licensee within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

806.5 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 807 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED INSPECTIONS, PREOPERATIONAL, CONVERSIONS AND RENOVATIONS*

807.1 The Department shall conduct one (1) or more preoperational inspections to verify and approve that the tanning facility is constructed and equipped in accordance with plans and modifications approved by the Department as specified in Section 806; has established standard operating procedures as specified in Chapter 3; and is in compliance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 808 CONDITIONS OF LICENSE RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LICENSEE

808.1 Upon receipt of a license issued by the Department, the licensee, in order to retain the license, shall comply with Subsections 808.2 through 808.6.

808.2 The licensee shall post a current license, valid Certificate of Occupancy, current inspection reports, and “Warning Statement” in a conspicuous location within the tanning facility as specified in Section 804.4.

808.3 The licensee shall comply with the provisions of these regulations and approved plans as specified in Section 806.

808.4 The licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard exists as specified in Section 906.

808.5 The licensee shall allow representatives of the Department access to its tanning facility as specified in Section 900.

808.6 The licensee shall replace existing operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture that do not comply with these regulations pursuant to a documented agreement with the Department requiring the operating systems, or equipment, devices, or fixtures, furniture to be replaced with an operating system, or equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furniture that comply with these regulations, or the Department may direct the replacement of existing operating systems, or equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture because the equipment, devices, fixtures, or furniture constitute a public health hazard or nuisance as specified in Section 102.2.

808.7 The licensee shall maintain required maintenance records that reflect the manufacturer, model, and serial number of, and date each piece of tanning equipment or device was sold, leased, transferred, loaned, assembled, recertified, upgraded, installed, serviced, or repaired as specified in Section 303.4(a).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 809 CONDITIONS OF RETENTION ─ LICENSE NOT TRANSFERABLE

809.1 A tanning facility license shall not be transferred from one person to another person or from one location to another.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F9 INSPECTION AND CORRECTION OF VIOLATIONS

25-F DCMR § 900 ACCESS & INSPECTION FREQUENCY ─ DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL MISDEMEANOR*

900.1 The Department shall determine a tanning facility’s compliance with these regulations by conducting on-site:

(a) Preoperational inspections;

(b) Unannounced routine annual and follow-up inspections; and

(c) Unannounced complaint generated inspections.

900.2 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with these regulations, the applicant or licensee shall allow the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a tanning facility.

900.3 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a tanning facility, including but not limited to tanning rooms, locker rooms, bathrooms, employee lounge areas, kitchens/food service facilities, or other areas of a tanning facility for the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the tanning facility is in compliance with these regulations;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the tanning facility is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency;

(c) To investigate, examine, and sample or swab equipment, devices, fixtures, linens, furnishings, garments, or other supplies; and

(d) To obtain information and examine and copy all records on the premises relating to the purchase, sale, lease, transfer, loan, assemble, certification, upgrade, installation, service, or repair of tanning equipment and devices.

900.4 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a tanning facility, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or licensee is required to allow access to the Department, as specified in Sections 900.1, 900.2, and 900.3;

(b) Access is a condition of the receipt and retention of a license as specified in Section 808.5;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained in accordance with District law; and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

900.5 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in Section 900.2, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in Section 900.4(d), and the applicant or licensee continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

900.6 If the Department is denied access to a tanning facility for an authorized purpose, after complying with Sections 900.2 through 900.4, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license to operate a tanning facility in accordance with Section 1108;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license to operate a tanning facility in accordance with Section 1113; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court including but not limited to administrative search warrants, to enforce these regulations in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, as amended, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2008 Repl.; 2012 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 901 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

901.1 The Department shall document on an inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the tanning facility’s legal identity, street and mailing addresses, inspection date, and other information such as status of the license and personnel certificates that may be required or other inspectional findings; and

(b) Specific factual observations of violations of these regulations that require correction by the licensee including:

(1) Nonconformance with critical items of these regulations;

(2) Failure of a licensee to correct cited violations, as specified in Section 908 or 910; or

(3) Failure of the licensee to ensure that operators are properly trained and have knowledge of their responsibility as specified in Chapter 2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 902 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

902.1 The Department shall specify on the inspection report the time frame for correction of violations as specified in Sections 908 and 910.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 903 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

903.1 At the conclusion of the inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the licensee and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable provisions in these regulations and shall be conspicuously posted in the reception area next to the tanning facility’s license.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 904 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

904.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the licensee’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the tanning facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 905 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ PUBLIC INFORMATION, RECORDS RETENTION

905.1 The Department shall keep and maintain in-office an active record of each inspection report, complaint, inspector’s sample reports, license suspension, and other correspondence made by any tanning facility within the District for a period of one (1) year, and as an inactive record for a period of two (2) additional years. Inactive records shall be destroyed in-house at the end of the two (2)-year inactive period.

905.2 In the case of an audit or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit or investigation has been completed.

905.3 The Department shall treat the inspection report as a public document and shall make it available for disclosure to a person who requests it as provided in the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-501, et seq. (2006 Repl.; 2011 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 906 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING*

906.1 The Department shall summarily suspend operations, or a licensee shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department, whenever a facility is operating with any of the following conditions:

(a) Operating with extensive fire damage that affects the tanning facility’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(b) Operating with serious flood damage that affects the tanning facility’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(c) Operating with loss of electrical power to critical systems, including but not limited to lighting, heating, cooling, or ventilation controls for a period of two (2) or more hours;

(d) Operating with incorrect hot water temperatures that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of Section 502.1;

(e) Operating with no hot water, or an unplanned water outage, or the water supply is cut off in its entirety for a period of one (1) or more hours in violation of Sections 412.2 and 502.1;

(f) Operating with inadequate water pressure to any part of the tanning facility;

(g) Operating with insufficient water capacity to any part of the tanning facility in violation of Section 412.1;

(h) Operating with a water supply that is not approved by the Department in violation of Section 409;

(i) Operating with a plumbing system supplying potable water that may result in contamination of the potable water;

(j) Operating with a sewage backup or sewage that is not disposed of in an approved and sanitary manner;

(k) Operating with a cross-connection between the potable water and non- potable water distribution systems, including but not limited to landscape irrigation, air conditioning, heating, or fire suppression system;

(l) Operating with a back siphonage event;

(m) Operating with toilet or handwashing facilities that are not properly installed;

(n) Operating with the presence of toxic or noxious gases, vapors, fumes, mists or particulates in concentrations immediately dangerous to life or health, or in concentrations sufficient to cause an environmental disease or public nuisance;

(o) Operating with the presence of any unapproved pesticide residues in the interior building areas of a tanning facility, in food storage or service areas contained within the tanning facility, or in the presence of any food in the facility; or in the presence of excessive restricted-use pesticide in any outdoor area of a tanning facility; or any evidence of the indiscriminate use of a pesticide or herbicide which may be injurious to the health of humans;

(p) Operating with equipment that by condition, design, construction, or use poses an immediate risk of entrapment, fall, puncture, pinch, crush, trip, or other injuries;

(q) Operating with environmental surfaces, including but not limited to tanning beds, stand-up tanning booths, cabinets, or vertical tanning devices, supplies, pillows, linens, garments, other items within a tanning facility that are stained with blood or bodily fluids, or soiled; or infested with vermin; or are in an otherwise unsanitary condition;

(r) Operating with gross insanitary occurrence or condition that may endanger public health including but not limited to an infestation of vermin; or

(s) Failing to eliminate the presence of insects, rodents, or other pests on the premises in violation of Sections 612 or 613.

906.2 In addition to the imminent health hazards identified in Section 906.1, the Department shall summarily suspend operations if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in Section 903, the existence of any other condition which endangers the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to:

(a) Operating a tanning facility without a license in violation of Section 800.1;

(b) Operating a tanning facility with an expired license in violation of Section 800.2;

(c) Operating a tanning facility with a suspended license in violation of Section 800.2;

(d) Operating a tanning facility without a valid Certificate of Occupancy in violation of Section 800.3;

(e) Operating a tanning facility without required warning statements in violation of Sections 804.4;

(f) Operating a tanning facility without a valid District-Issued Tanning Facility Manager’s Identification Card in violation of Subsections 200.6 and 800.7;

(g) Operating a tanning facility without a manager or operator who is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of Section 200.2;

(h) Selling, leasing, transferring, loaning, assembling, certifying, recertifying, upgrading, installing, servicing, or repairing tanning equipment or devices without a valid tanning service provider registration in violation of Section 800.4;

(i) Using a tanning service provider company that is not registered in the District in violation of Section 800.5;

(j) Failing to allow access to DOH representatives during the facility’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department in violation of Section 900.2;

(k) Hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty; or

(l) Operating in violation of any provision specified in Chapter 12.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 907 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

907.1 If operations are discontinued as specified in Section 906 or otherwise according to applicable D.C. laws and regulations, the licensee shall obtain approval from the Department before resuming operations.

907.2 The Department shall determine whether a licensee needs to discontinue operations that are unaffected by the imminent health hazard in a tanning facility as determined by the Department or other District agency.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 908 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION*

908.1 A licensee shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation of these regulations and implement corrective action as specified in Section 908.2.

908.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed five (5) business days after the inspection, for the licensee to correct a critical violation of these regulations.

908.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject a licensee to a condemnation order pursuant to Section 1102, summary suspension of a license pursuant to Section 1108, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to Section 1113, civil penalties pursuant to Section 1114, or judicial remedies pursuant to Section 1116.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 909 CRITICAL VIOLATION ─ VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

909.1 The licensee shall correct critical violations no later than five (5) business days after an inspection. The Department shall enter the violation and information about the corrective action on the inspection report.

909.2 After receiving notification that the licensee has corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in the Department's records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 910 NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

910.1 The licensee shall correct noncritical violations no later than fourteen (14) business days after the inspection, except as specified in Section 910.2.

910.2 The Department may approve a compliance schedule that extends beyond the time limits specified in Section 910.1 if the licensee submits a written schedule of compliance and no health hazard exists or will result from allowing an extended schedule for compliance.

910.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to Section 1113, issuance of civil penalties pursuant to Section 1114, or the imposition of judicial remedies pursuant to Section 1116.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 911 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

911.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to Section 1108 or suspended or revoked pursuant to Section 1113 because of violations of these regulations, the licensee shall submit a written request for reinspection and pay the required reinspection fee.

911.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall conduct the reinspection of a tanning facility within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

911.3 A tanning facility shall not resume operations or remove from public view any warning or current inspection result as specified in Sections 301, 302.3, or 804.4, or any enforcement order as specified in Section 907.1 until the Department has reinspected the tanning facility and certified that it is in compliance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F10 NOTICES

25-F DCMR § 1000 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROPER METHODS

1000.1 A notice issued in accordance with Section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) The notice is personally served by the Department, a law enforcement officer, or a person authorized to serve civil process and service is made to the licensee or person operating a tanning facility without a license;

(b) The notice is sent by the Department to the last known address of the licensee or person operating a tanning facility without a license, or by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired; or

(c) For civil infraction penalties, the notice is provided by the Department in accordance with the procedures stated in Section 3102 of Title 16 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1001 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION, CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

1001.1 An employee restriction or exclusion order, condemnation order, or summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in Section 1000.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the tanning facility and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the licensee or manager of a tanning facility, as appropriate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1002 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ WHEN NOTICE IS EFFECTIVE

1002.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt as specified in Section 1001.1(a), or if service is made as specified in Section 1001.1(b) at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1003 SERVICE OF NOTICE ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

1003.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the licensee or person operating a tanning facility without a license or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F11 REMEDIES

25-F DCMR § 1100 CRITERIA FOR SEEKING REMEDIES ─ CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDY

1100.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of these regulations if a licensee, person operating a tanning facility, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license as specified in Subsections 800.1 and 800.2;

(b) Fails to pay the required fee as specified in Section 805.1(f);

(c) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in Section 808;

(d) Fails to allow the Department access to a tanning facility as specified in Section 900;

(e) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, orders, or warnings issued by the Department as specified in Sections 1008 and 1010;

(f) Fails to comply with a condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(g) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter;

(h) Fails to comply with an order issued as a result of an administrative hearing;

(i) Makes any material false statement in the application for licensure;

(j) Falsifies or alters records required to be kept by these regulations; or

(k) Seeks to operate with conditions revealed by the application or any report, records, inspection, or other means which would warrant the Department refusal to grant a new license.

1100.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1101 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ EXAMINING, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF EQUIPMENT, FURNITURE, DEVICES, FIXTURES, AND FURNISHINGS

1101.1 The Department may examine, collect samples without cost and test as necessary to determine compliance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1102 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT OR DEVICES

1102.1 A duly authorized agent of the Department may condemn and forbid the sale of, or cause to be removed and destroyed, any equipment, device, fixture, or supplies found in a tanning facility the use of which does not comply with these regulations, or that is being used in violation of these regulations, or that because of dirt, filth, extraneous matter, corrosion, open seams, or chipped or cracked surfaces is unfit for use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1103 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

1103.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the tanning facility, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of these regulations and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the label or manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the licensee has the right to a hearing and may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with Chapter 13, which request does not stay the Department’s imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction, replacement or removal of equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1104 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF EQUIPMENT OR DEVICES

1104.1 The Department shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies that do not meet the requirements of these regulations.

1104.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies that are the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in Section 1103 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1105 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, EQUIPMENT, DEVICES AND FURNISHING RESTRICTIONS

1105.1 Equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies that are subject to a condemnation order may not be used, sold, moved, or otherwise destroyed by any person, except as specified in Section 1106.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1106 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

1106.1 No person shall remove the tag, label, or other appropriate marking except under the direction of the Department as specified in Section 1106.2.

1106.2 The Department shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from tanning equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The licensee obtains authorization from the Department to discard the tanning equipment, devices, fixtures, or supplies identified in the condemnation order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1107 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

1107.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to a licensee, or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, devices, fixtures, or other supplies as specified in Section 1102, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or a prior hearing on the condemnation order.

1107.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days of receiving a Department condemnation order. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the condemnation action.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1108 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

1108.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a tanning facility if it is denied access to the tanning facility to conduct an inspection, or determines through an inspection, or examination of operators, employees, records, or other means as specified in the regulations, that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1109 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

1109.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a tanning facility is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of these regulations that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the licensee may request a hearing by submitting a timely request in accordance with Section 1110, which request does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1110 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR HEARING NOT REQUIRED

1110.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in Section 1108 by providing written notice as specified in Section 1109 of the summary suspension to the licensee, without prior warning, notice of a hearing, or prior hearing.

1110.2 The licensee shall have the right to request a hearing within fifteen (15) business days after receiving the Department’s summary suspension notice. The Department shall hold a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of a timely request, and shall issue a decision within seventy-two (72) hours after the hearing. The request for a hearing shall not act as a stay of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1111 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

1111.1 After receiving a written request from the licensee stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the tanning facility for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1112 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

1112.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through reinspection or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been eliminated.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1113 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE

1113.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of these regulations shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued to a tanning facility pursuant to the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, as amended, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7 731(b) (2008 Repl.; 2012 Supp.)). When there is a history of repeated violations or where a license has been previously suspended, the Department may revoke a license upon a showing of a subsequent violation.

1113.2 Before the Department revokes or suspends a license, the licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1114 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CIVIL PENALTIES

1114.1 Civil fines, penalties, or related costs may be imposed against any tanning facility licensee for violation of any provision of these regulations.

1114.2 The Department may impose penalties for violations of any provision of these regulations not to exceed two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500) for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with these regulations shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, as amended, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2008 Repl.; 2012 Supp.)).

1114.3 Civil fines or penalties imposed pursuant to Section 1114.2 shall reflect the severity of the violation and the extent to which it creates an imminent threat to the public health. Maximum amounts shall be limited to egregious or flagrant violations involving gross negligence or carelessness resulting in injury which do not meet the criminal penalty standards in Section 1116.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1115 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ CIVIL PENALTIES, NOTICES OF VIOLATION OR INFRACTIONS

1115.1 The notice of violation shall state the nature of the violation and allow a reasonable time for performance of the necessary corrective action.

1115.2 If a person fails to comply with the time stated in the notice of violation issued pursuant to this section, the Department shall issue a proposed compliance order, or a proposed cease and desist order, which shall include a statement of the nature of the violation, afford the right to a hearing, allow a reasonable time for compliance with the order, and state any penalties to be assessed for failure to comply with the order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1116 JUDICIAL ─ CRIMINAL PENALTIES, INJUNCTIVE RELIEF, OR IMPRISONMENT

1116.1 Any person who knowingly violates any provision of these regulations shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), imprisonment not to exceed one (1) year, or both, for each violation. Each day of any failure to comply with these regulations shall constitute a separate offense and the penalties prescribed in this section shall apply to each separate offense in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, as amended, (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2008 Repl.; 2012 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F12 PROHIBITED CONDUCT AND ACTIVITIES

25-F DCMR § 1200 PROHIBITED CONDUCT ─ ADVERTISEMENT, POSTING

1200.1 No person shall state or imply that any activity conducted by such person or such person’s facility has been approved by the Department.

1200.2 Except for advertisements that are used on the premises, no person or facility shall advertise or promote tanning services without the tanning facility’s name, address, telephone number, and license number on the advertisement.

1200.3 No person shall indicate in any advertisement or posting that such person’s tanning equipment is safe or free of hazards from ultraviolet radiation, including but not limited to statements such as “no burning,” “no harmful rays,” “no adverse effects,” “safe tanning,” “healthy,” or similar wording of concepts.

1200.4 No person shall claim in any advertisement or posting any medical or health benefits from such person’s tanning equipment or devices, nor imply use of tanning services as a medical treatment.

1200.5 No person or facility shall advertise or promote “unlimited” tanning exposure packages in excess of a tanning equipment manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule as defined in Section 9901.1.

1200.6 No person shall promote in any advertisement or posting tanning exposure times, number of visits per week, or spacing of visits in excess of those in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule.

1200.7 No person or facility shall advertise or promote tanning services that are misleading in any way.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1201 PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES*

1201.1 No tanning facility shall employ, in any capacity, any person who is under eighteen (18) years of age.

1201.2 No alcoholic beverages shall be served in a tanning facility.

1201.3 No person shall enter or remain in any part of a tanning facility while in possession of, consuming, or using any alcoholic beverage or drugs except pursuant to a prescription for such drugs. The licensee shall not permit any such person to enter or remain upon the premises.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F13 HEARING ADMINISTRATION

25-F DCMR § 1300 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ NOTICE, REQUEST FOR HEARING, BASIS, AND TIME FRAME

1300.1 A person who receives a notice of hearing for an administrative remedy as specified in this chapter and elects to respond to the notice shall file a response to the notice within seven (7) calendar days after service.

1300.2 In response to an adverse administrative action, a licensee may submit a written request for a hearing to the Department within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of notice of adverse action.

1300.3 A hearing request shall not stay a condemnation order as specified in Section 1102, or the imposition of a summary suspension as specified in Section 1108.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1301 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION – CONTENTS OF RESPONSE TO HEARING NOTICE, OR HEARING REQUEST

1301.1 A response to a hearing notice shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement as to whether the respondent waives the right to a hearing;

(c) A statement of defense, mitigation, or explanation concerning any allegation of fact, if any;

(d) A request to the Department for a settlement of the proceeding by consent agreement (if the Department provides this opportunity); and

(e) The name and address of the respondent’s legal counsel, if any.

1301.2 A request for a hearing shall be in writing and contain the following:

(a) An admission or denial of each allegation of fact;

(b) A statement of defense, mitigation, denial, or explanation concerning each allegation of fact; and

(c) The name and address of the requester’s legal counsel, if any.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 1302 ADMINISTRATIVE ─ HEARINGS ADMINISTRATION, TIMELINESS

1302.1 The Department shall afford a hearing within seventy-two (72) hours after receiving a written request for a hearing from:

(a) A licensee or person who is subject to a condemnation order as specified in Section 1102; or

(b) A person whose license is summarily suspended as specified in Section 1108.

1302.2 A licensee or person who submits a request for a hearing as specified in Section 1302.1 may waive the expedited hearing in a written request to the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F14 JUDICIAL REVIEW - APPEALS

25-F DCMR § 1400 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

1400.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2002, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2008 Repl.; 2012 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-F15 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

25-F DCMR § 1500 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

1500.1 The following fees are applicable to Tanning Facilities and include plan reviews, inspections, and license applications.

Description of Services: Fees:

Initial Facility License Application $ 500.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Renewal Facility License Application $ 500.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Change of Ownership Fee $ 500.00

Late Fee Renewal $ 25.00

Duplicate License Fee $ 15.00

1500.2 The following fees are applicable to Tanning Service Providers’ Registration:

Description of Services: Fees:

New Registration $ 250.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Renewal Registration $ 250.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Late Fee Registration $ 25.00

Duplicate Registration $ 15.00

1500.3 The following fees are applicable to Tanning Facility Manager’s Identification Cards:

Description of Services: Fees:

New District-Issued

Tanning Facility Manager’s

Identification Card $ 35.00

(Valid for a 2-year period)

Renewal of District-Issued

Tanning Facility Manager’s $ 35.00

Identification Card

(Valid for a 2-year period)

Duplicate Tanning Facility

Manager’s Identification

Card $ 15.00

1500.4 All fees shall be paid by certified check, money order, business check, or personal check made payable to the “District of Columbia Treasurer.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 61 DCR 5762 (June 6, 2014). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Tanning Facility Regulations 25-F DCMR § 1500

25-F99 DEFINITIONS

25-F DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).
25-F DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1 As used in this chapter, the following terms and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Condemnation order – a written administrative notice: (1) to prohibit the use of a specific tanning equipment or device, or (2) to remove a tanning equipment or device from service because the tanning equipment or device does not meet the requirements of these regulations, or the tanning equipment or device is not being operated in accordance with the requirements of these regulations.

Consent – signature on a form acknowledging warnings given by the tanning facility for a minor’s use of ultraviolet tanning equipment or devices and agreeing to the use of required protective eyewear.

Consumer – any member of the public who is provided access to a tanning device in exchange for a fee or other compensation, or any individual who, in exchange for a fee or other compensation, is afforded use of a tanning device as a condition or benefit of membership or access.

Critical item – a provision of these regulations that if in noncompliance, is more likely than other violations to contribute to food contamination, illness, or an environmental health hazard. Critical items are denoted in these regulations with an asterisk (().

Critical violation – a condition or practice that violates this Code and results in the production of a product that is adulterated, decomposed, misbranded, or unwholesome; or presents a threat to the health or safety of the consumer.

Department – The District of Columbia Department of Health.

EPA – the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

FDA – the United States Food and Drug Administration.

Guardian – an individual who, by legal appointment or by the effect of a written law, has been given custody of a minor or adult.

Imminent health hazard – a significant threat or danger to health that is considered to exist when there is evidence sufficient to show that a product, practice, circumstance, or event creates a situation that requires immediate correction or cessation of operations to prevent injury based on the number of potential injuries, and the nature, severity, and duration of the anticipated injury.

Individual – any human being.

Injury – bodily harm resulting from the use of a tanning device which requires medical attention.

Inspection – an official examination or observation, including but not limited to tests, surveys, and monitoring, to determine compliance with rules, regulations, Department orders, requirements, and conditions.

Licensee – the holder of a license to operate a tanning facility.

Minor – any individual less than eighteen (18) years of age.

Nuisance – anything which is injurious to health or offensive to the senses, so as to interfere with the comfort or endanger the health or safety of the public.

Operator – any individual designated by the licensee to operate or to assist and instruct the consumer in the operation and use of the tanning facility or tanning equipment.

Other compensation – the payment or exchange of goods, services, or anything of value for use of the tanning device or devices.

Override timer control – a separate electrical timer, switch, or similar device which may be used by the operator to start or stop the timer system for a tanning device. The term does not include electric panels which control the entire electrical system for a building or a portion of a building.

Outbreak – the occurrence of cases of a communicable disease in a community, geographic region, or particular population at a rate in excess of that which is normally expected in that community, geographic region, or particular population.

Pathogenic – the ability to produce disease.

Person – an association, a corporation, individual, partnership, trustee, government or governmental subdivision, or other legal entity.

Protective eyewear – suitable eyewear that protects the eye from ultraviolet radiation and allows adequate vision.

Phototherapy device – equipment that emits ultraviolet radiation and is used by health care professionals in the treatment of disease.

Personal hygiene items – articles such as bars of soap, bath gel, bubble bath, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, mouthwash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, cotton swabs, cotton balls, razors, shaving cream, emery boards, combs, brushes, tweezers, feminine hygiene products, powder, etc. which are used for personal cleanliness or grooming.

Public area – any area open to public view, whether indoors or outdoors to which the public has approved access, excluding individual tanning rooms, locker rooms, bathrooms, or restrooms at a tanning facility.

Safe level – not more than fifty (50) colonies of microorganisms per four square inches (4 sq. in.) of equipment surface.

Sanitization – the effective bactericidal treatment of surfaces of equipment and devices by an EPA or FDA registered product which provides a sufficient concentration of chemicals, allowing enough time to reduce the bacterial count, including pathogens, to a safe level. Chemical germicides that are registered with the EPA as hospital disinfectants, when used at recommended dilutions and directions, may be approved for sanitizing tanning devices.

Sunlamp product – any equipment used for the tanning of the skin that emits electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths in the air between two hundred nanometers (200 nm) and four hundred nanometers (400 nm), including but not limited to a sunlamp, ultraviolet lamp, tanning booth, facial unit, UVA wand, or tanning bed.

Tanning equipment or device – any equipment used during the process of skin tanning with a sunlamp product, such as any sunlamp product intended to induce skin tanning through the irradiation of any part of the living human body with ultraviolet radiation and any accompanying equipment, including but not limited to ballasts, starters, lamps, reflectors, acrylic shields, timers, and airflow cooling systems, comfort pillows and handrails.

Tanning facility – any location, place, area, structure, or business that either as a sole service or as part of a salon, health spa or any other facility provides access to sunlamps, ultraviolet lamps, or other equipment intended to induce skin tanning through the irradiation of any part of the human body for cosmetic or non-medical purposes. The term “tanning facility” does not include private residences if access to tanning devices is provided without charge.

Tanning Service Provider – any person or persons with a valid registration issued by the Mayor providing tanning equipment installation, servicing, or services, including but not limited to:

Any person or persons who:

(a) Makes, sells, leases, transfers, lends, assembles, repairs, or installs tanning equipment or the components used in connection with such equipment;

(b) Performs health physics consulting, such as calibration of equipment used to perform surveys of ultraviolet radiation and timer accuracy measurements, performs ultraviolet radiation output and timer accuracy measurements, or designs ultraviolet radiation safety programs or procedures;

(c) Performs preventive maintenance or cleaning services, such as the cleaning of fans, acrylic, lamps, reflectors, and other components; or

(d) Conducts training seminars for tanning facility personnel.

Timer – tanning device provided to terminate the exposure at a preset time interval.

Ultraviolet radiation – electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths in air between two hundred nanometers (200 nm) and four hundred nanometers (400 nm).

Unlimited – any number of visits implied or allowed in excess of the number of visits per week allowed by the tanning equipment manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 60 DCR 3582 (March 15, 2013).

25-G BODY ART ESTABLISHMENT REGULATIONS

25-G1 TITLE, INTENT, SCOPE

25-G DCMR § 100 TITLE ─ Body Art Establishment Regulations

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Body Art Establishment Regulations hereinafter referred to as “these regulations.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 100
25-G DCMR § 101 INTENT ─ SAFETY

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to protect the public’s health by keeping the District’s body art industry safe and sanitary.

101.2 These regulations:

(a) Establish minimum standards for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of body art establishments;

(b) Establish minimum operational standards for sterilization, sanitation, cleaning and safety of the establishment, equipment, supplies, and work surface areas;

(c) Set standards for maintenance and replacement of equipment and supplies;

(d) Set standards for hygienic operations for personnel including vaccinations;

(e) Establish recordkeeping and reporting requirements;

(f) Establish prohibited conduct within body art establishments;

(g) Establish licensing and registration requirements, and associated fee schedules;

(h) Provide for enforcement through inspections, suspension and revocation of licenses and registrations, including the examination, embargo, or condemnation of unsanitary or unsafe jewelry, biohazard sharps containers, disposable and non-disposable equipment, single-use products, wipes, gloves, towels, ointments, inks, needles, and disinfectants;

(i) Establish fines and penalties; and

(j) Establish definitions for this subtitle.

101.3 In accordance with the Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2853.76a. (2015 Repl.)), these regulations do not apply to:

(a) A licensed physician or surgeon performing body art services for medical reasons;

(b) A licensed funeral director performing body-piercing or tattooing services as required by that profession;

(c) Laser tattoo removal procedures licensed by the District of Columbia Board of Medicine; or

(d) Skin treatment procedures such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion licensed by the District of Columbia Board of Medicine.

101.4 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as critical. Critical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance may result in injuries, spread of communicable diseases, or environmental health hazards. A critical item is denoted with an asterisk (*).

101.5 Certain provisions of these regulations are identified as noncritical. Noncritical provisions are those provisions where noncompliance is less likely to spread communicable diseases or create environmental health hazards. A section that is denoted in these regulations without an asterisk (*) after the head note is a noncritical item. However, a critical item may have a provision within it that is designated as a noncritical item with a superscripted letter “N” following the provision.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 101
25-G DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL AND DISTRICT LAWS

102.1 Body art establishments shall meet the following requirements:

(a) 29 CFR Part 1910 (Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances);

(b) 29 CFR § 1910.1030(d) – Bloodborne Pathogen Standard;

(c) The Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-0193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2809.01 (2015 Repl.));

(d) The Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-0193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2853.76c, 47-2853.76d, and 47-2853.76e (2015 Repl.));

(e) The Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in Chapter 37 of Title 17 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, as amended; and

(f) The District of Columbia’s Construction Codes Supplements of 2013, Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, (61 DCR 13094; March 28, 2014 – Part 2), which consist of the following International Code Council (ICC):

(1) International Building Code (2012 edition);

(2) International Mechanical Code (2012 edition);

(3) International Plumbing Code (2012 edition);

(4) International Fire Code (2012 edition);

(5) International Existing Building Code (2012 edition); and

(6) The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70) National Electrical Code (2014 edition).

102.2 In enforcing the provisions of these regulations, the Department shall regulate certain aspects of a body art establishment’s physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings in use before the effective date of these regulations based on the following considerations:

(a) Whether the establishment’s physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings used in a body art establishment, are in good repair or capable of being maintained in a hygienic condition in compliance with these regulations; or

(b) The existence of a documented agreement with the operator that the physical structure; operating systems, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings used in a body art establishment will be replaced by an agreed upon date.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 102

25-G2 SUPERVISION AND TRAINING, & PRE- AND POST-OPERATING PROCEDURES

25-G DCMR § 200 Operators’ Responsibilities ─ QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING*

200.1 Operators shall ensure that prior to working in their establishments, body artists are licensed in accordance with:

(a) The Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-0193; D.C. Official Code §§ 47-2853.76b, 76c, 47-2853.7, 47-2853.6d, and 47-2853.76e (2015 Repl.)); and

(b) The Board of Barber and Cosmetology as specified in Chapter 37 of Title 17 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, as amended.

200.2 Operators shall ensure managers are on duty and on the premises during all hours of operations at each body art establishment.

200.3 Operators shall ensure body artists are on the premises during all hours of operations at each body art establishment.

200.4 Operators shall ensure body artists prior to working in a body art establishment provide proof of the following:

(a) Proof that the body artist is eighteen (18) years of age or older. Proof of age shall be satisfied with a valid driver’s license, school-issued identification, or other government issued identification containing the date of birth and a photograph of the individual;

(b) Record of current hepatitis B vaccination, including applicable boosters, unless the body artist can demonstrate hepatitis B immunity or compliance with current federal OSHA hepatitis B vaccination declination form; and

(c) Training in Biohazard issues and handling in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards in accordance with 29 CFR – Part 1910 – Occupational Safety and Health Standard, Subpart Z – Toxic and Hazardous Substances, including universal precautions in accordance with 29 CFR § 1910.1030(d) – Bloodborne pathogens.

200.5 Operators shall ensure that only single-use disposable sharps, pigments, gloves, and cleansing products shall be used in connection with body art procedures in body art establishments in accordance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 200
25-G DCMR § 201 PRE-OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ AGE RESTRICTIONS SIGNS AND POSTING*

201.1 Operators shall ensure its customers are eighteen (18) years of age in order to receive a body art procedure in accordance with the Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2853.76e(b) (2015 Repl.)).

201.2 Operators shall ensure that before piercing a minor’s ears with an ear piercing gun, the minor shall be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, as specified in Subsection 201.3(b) and the parent or legal guardian shall have submitted a signed “Parental/Legal Guardian Authorization Form” to the establishment, as specified in Subsection 201.3(b).

201.3 Operators shall conspicuously post an “Age Restriction Sign” at or near the reception area with the following text:

(a) INDIVIDUALS LESS THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE ARE PROHIBITED FROM OBTAINING ANY BODY ART PROCEDURE, EXCEPT EAR PIERCING PROCEDURES USING A MECHANIZED, PRE-STERILIZED SINGLE-USE STUD AND CLASP EAR PIERCING GUN; AND

(b) EAR PIERCING IDENTIFIED IN SECTION “(a)” IS AUTHORIZED ONLY WITH THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN SUBMITTED TO THE ESTABLISHMENT and IF THE MINOR IS accompanied by a parent or legal guardian AT THE TIME OF THE EAR PIERCING.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 201
25-G DCMR § 202 PRE-OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ HEALTH RISK STATEMENTS, CONTENT, AND POSTING*

202.1 Operators shall ensure customers are reminded to consult with their physician regarding any medical condition which could be exacerbated by body art procedures.

202.2 Operators shall conspicuously post a disclosure sign in the reception area that is legible, clearly visible, not obstructed by any item for viewing by customers.

202.3 The lettering on the sign shall be at least five millimeters (5 mm) high for the phrase “REQUIRED DISCLOSURE”. All capital letters shall be at least five millimeters (5 mm) high and all lower case letters shall be at least three millimeters (3 mm) high. The disclosure sign shall read as follows:

REQUIRED DISCLOSURE

The United States Food and Drug Administration has not approved any pigment color additive for injectable use as tattoo ink. There may be a risk of carcinogenic decomposition associated with certain pigments when the pigments are subsequently exposed to concentrated ultra-violet light or laser irradiation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 202
25-G DCMR § 203 PRE-OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ JEWELRY SELECTION, AND EQUIPMENT SETUP*

203.1 All licensed operators shall ensure customers and body artists select together the appropriate size and quality of jewelry prior to beginning the body-piercing procedure. Appropriate jewelry shall be made of:

(a) ASTM F138, ISO 5832-1, ISO 10993-6, ISO 10993-10 and/or 10993-11, and stainless steel;

(b) Solid 14k through 18k yellow or white gold;

(c) Niobium;

(d) ASTM F136 titanium or ASTM F67 titanium;

(e) Platinum; or

(f) Other materials found to be equally biocompatible.

203.2 All jewelry shall be free of nicks, scratches, or irregular surfaces and is properly sterilized prior to use.

203.3 All equipment and supplies, including but not limited to distilled water, inks, pigments, and all packages containing sterile instruments, pre-sterilized, single-use jewelry, and pre- sterilized, single-use disposable items shall be opened in front of the customer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 203
25-G DCMR § 204 POST-OPERATING PROCEDURES ─ AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS, CONTENT *

204.1 Operators shall ensure after each body art procedure, the body artist provides the customer with “Aftercare Instructions”, which include the following information:

(a) The name of the body artist who performed the procedure; and

(b) The name, address, and telephone of the establishment where the procedure was performed.

204.2 Written “Aftercare Instructions” for tattoo procedures shall provide:

(a) Information on the care of the procedure site;

(b) Restrictions on physical activities such as bathing, recreational water activities, gardening, or contact with animals; and duration of the restrictions;

(c) The need to properly cleanse the tattooed area;

(d) The use of sterile bandages(s) or other sterile dressings(s) when necessary; and

(e) Instructions for the customer to consult the body artist or health care practitioner at the first sign of infection or an allergic reaction, and to report a diagnosed infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction resulting from the application of the tattoo to the body artist and to the Department at (202) 724-8800.

204.3 Written “Aftercare Instructions” for body-piercing procedures shall state:

(a) Proper cleansing techniques for the pierced area;

(b) The need to minimize physical activities as specified in Subsection 204.2(b) for at least six (6) weeks;

(c) Use of sterile bandages(s) or other sterile dressings(s) when necessary;

(d) The name of the body artist, and the name, address, and telephone of the establishment where the procedure was performed; and

(e) The instructions for the customer to consult the body artist or a health care practitioner at the first sign of infection or an allergic reaction, and to report any diagnosed infection, allergic reaction, or adverse reaction resulting from the body-piercing to the body artist and to the Department at (202) 724-8800.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 204

25-G3 OPERATING PROCEDURES TO PREVENT CROSS-CONTAMINATION, AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

25-G DCMR § 300 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ DISTILLED WATER, inks, pigments, AND pre-sterilized, single-use disposable items

300.1 Operators shall ensure only distilled water is used to mix and dilute inks, or pigments and shall not use tap water.

300.2 Operators shall ensure tattoo artists use inks, and pigments that are specifically manufactured for performing body art procedures in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

300.3 Operators shall ensure tattoo artists transfer the quantity of ink and pigment to be used in the body art procedure from the ink and pigment bottle and place it into a single-use paper or plastic cup or cap immediately before a tattoo is applied and discarded immediately upon completion of a tattoo.

300.4 Single-use, disposable items, including but not limited to cups, cotton swabs, corks, rubber bands, and toothpicks shall be maintained in clean condition and dispensed in a manner to prevent contamination to unused single-use disposable items.

300.5 Single-use plastic covers shall be used to cover spray bottles or other reusable accessories and discarded immediately upon completion of the procedure.

300.6 Inks, pigments, soaps, and other products in multiple-use containers shall be dispensed in a manner that prevents contamination of the storage container and the remaining unused portion through the use of a single-use receptacle.

300.7 If a tray is used for inks or pigments, it shall be decontaminated after use on each customer.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 300
25-G DCMR § 301 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ pre-sterilized, single- use disposable SHARPS

301.1 Operators shall ensure tattoo artists use only pre-sterilized single needles and scalpel blades. For equipment that is not pre-sterilized, operators shall ensure body artists use single-use disposable equipment that is discarded immediately into a medical-grade sharps container upon completion of a tattoo.

301.2 Operators shall ensure body artists shall use single-use disposable needles and equipment that is specifically manufactured for performing body art procedures in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 301
25-G DCMR § 302 PREVENTING CROSS-CONTAMINATION FROM BODY ARTISTS ─ WORK AREAS, CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN, AND RESTRICTIONS

302.1 Operators shall ensure body artists encountering a biohazard or other health hazards report it immediately to the manager.

302.2 Operators shall ensure body artists use only single-use jewelry on an individual and the single-use jewelry shall not be reused on another customer.

302.3 All body artists shall wear single-use aprons or lap cloths and single-use gloves which shall be disposed of after completing a procedure on a customer.

302.4 For equipment that is not disposable, operators shall ensure body artists use reusable equipment, such as surgical steel forceps, that is sterilized as specified in Subsections 304.13 and 304.14.

302.5 All operators shall ensure body artists:

(a) Wear clean outer garments, maintain a high degree of personal cleanliness, and conform to hygienic practices while on duty;

(b) Wash their hands, wrists and arms to the elbow thoroughly using hot or tempered water with a liquid germicidal soap before and after tattooing or body-piercing and as often as necessary to remove contaminants;

(c) Dry hands thoroughly with single use disposable towel;

(d) Don new medical-grade latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic single-use disposable gloves on both hands when touching, decontaminating, or handling a surface, object, instrument, or jewelry that is soiled or that is potentially soiled with human blood; and

(e) Don new medical-grade latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic single-use disposable gloves while assembling tattooing and body-piercing instruments and during tattooing and body-piercing procedures, as specified in Chapter 3.

302.6 When a body art session is interrupted, or immediately after gloves are torn or perforated, operators shall ensure the tattoo artist or body-piercer:

(a) Remove and discard the gloves;

(b) Wash and dry their hands as specified in Subsections 302.5(b) and (c); and

(c) Don a new pair of gloves, as specified in Subsection 302.5(d).

302.7 Operators shall ensure body artists use the following universal precautions for all body art procedures:

(a) Don new gloves for routine disinfecting procedures;

(b) Move in such a manner as to avoid re-contamination of work surfaces;

(c) Discard and remove disposable items from work areas after completing a body art procedure on each customer;

(d) Disinfect work surface areas and all equipment that may have been contaminated during the body art procedure;

(e) Dispose of single-use apron and/or lap cloths after use on each customer;

(f) Remove and discard gloves and wash hands;

(g) Discard materials contaminated with bodily fluids immediately, or in accordance with Subsection 307.2;

(h) Disinfect all reusable equipment made of non-porous material after each use. Non-spray wipes for surfaces and liquids for soaking jewelry are preferred over spray disinfectants which may disperse pathogens into the air;

(i) Apply iodine, bacitracin and other antiseptics with single-use applicators. Applicators that have touched a customer shall not be used to retrieve antiseptics, iodine, etc. from any containers;

(j) Clean contaminated instruments (such as forceps or pliers) of bacitracin or other antibiotic solutions, blood and other particles with an appropriate soap or disinfectant cleaner and hot water, followed by an ultrasonic cleaner and steam autoclave; and

(k) Use sterilization equipment, as specified in Subsections 304.13 through 304.15, and 311.

302.8 Workstations in a body art establishment shall be constructed and maintained to ensure customer privacy by using curtains, folding screens, or individual rooms, and shall not be used as a walk-thru to gain access to other rooms or exits.

302.9 All workstations shall be constructed and equipped with floors, chairs, and table tops that are non-porous, smooth and easily cleanable and maintained in a clean and sanitary manner.

302.10 Carpet is not permitted as a floor covering in a work area where tattooing or body piercing is conducted.

302.11 All workstations shall contain a medical-grade sharps container.

302.12 Operators shall ensure each work station for tattoo or body-piercing procedure provides a body artist with a minimum of forty-five square feet (45 sq. ft.) of floor space.

302.13 Each body art establishment shall have a separate cleaning area for decontamination and sterilization procedures, in which the placement of a sterilizer is at least thirty-six (36) inches away from the placement of the required ultrasonic cleaning unit and any sink.

302.14 All solid surfaces and objects in the procedure area and the decontamination and sterilization area that have come in contact with the customer or the materials used in performing the tattoo or body-piercing, including but not limited to chairs, armrests, tables, countertops, and trays, shall be immediately decontaminated after each use and then disinfected by application of a disinfectant, used according to manufacturer’s instructions.

302.15 The surfaces and objects in the procedure area shall be disinfected again if an activity that poses a potential contamination occurred in the area after the area was disinfected.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 302
25-G DCMR § 303 PREVENTING CROSS-CONTAMINATION FROM CUSTOMERS

303.1 Operators shall ensure that any skin or mucosa surface to receive a body art procedure is free of a rash or any visible infection and shall comply with the following procedures in preparing the customer’s skin:

(a) Clean the area of the customer’s skin subject to the body art with an approved germicidal soap according to the label directions. In the case of:

(1) Oral piercings, the body artist shall provide the individual with antiseptic mouthwash in a single-use cup and shall ensure that the individual utilizes the mouthwash provided; or

(2) Lip, labret, or cheek piercing, the body artist shall follow the procedures identified in this section for skin and oral piercings.

(b) Use single-use disposable razors if shaving is required. The razor shall be immediately placed in a medical-grade sharps container after use;

(c) Wash the skin and surrounding area with soap and water, following shaving, and immediately discard the washing pad after use;

(d) Use single-use products only to stop the bleeding or to absorb blood, and discard immediately after use, or in accordance with Subsection 307.2; and

(e) Use sterile gauze or other sterile applicator to dispense and apply petroleum jelly, soaps, and other products in the application of stencils on the area to receive a body art procedure to prevent contamination of the original container and its contents. The applicator or gauze shall be used once and then discarded immediately, or in accordance with Subsection 307.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 303
25-G DCMR § 304 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ REUSABLE INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT, DESIGN, LOCATION, AND MAINTENANCE LOG

304.1 Operators shall ensure reusable instruments that are used during body art procedures which may contact blood or other bodily fluids, or which come in direct contact with skin which is not intact, shall be sterilized after each use or disposed of after each use.

304.2 Operators shall ensure reusable instruments that are used during tattooing and body-piercing procedures which do not come in contact with broken skin but which may come in contact with mucous membranes and oral tissue shall be sterilized after each use.

304.3 Operators shall ensure that if it is not feasible to sterilize the reusable instruments because it will be damaged during the body art procedure, the reusable instruments, including but not limited to calipers and gauge wheels shall be treated with a germicidal solution prior to use.

304.4 Operators shall ensure reusable instruments that come in contact only with intact skin or mucosal surfaces shall either be single-use or cleaned and sterilized as specified in Section 309.

304.5 Operators shall ensure that contaminated, reusable instruments shall be placed in a labeled covered container which shall contain a disinfectant solution such as 2.0% alkaline glutaraldehyde or similar disinfectant until it can be cleaned and sterilized.

304.6 Operators shall ensure that all containers holding contaminated reusable instruments and container lids shall be emptied of contaminated solution and cleaned and sanitized daily or more often if needed.

304.7 Operators shall ensure that any part of a tattooing machine that may be touched by the tattoo artist during the procedure shall be covered with a disposable plastic sheath that is discarded upon completion of the procedure, and the tattoo machine shall be decontaminated upon completion of the procedure, as specified in Sections 308.1(c) and 309.

304.8 Operators shall ensure that a machine used to insert pigments shall be designed with removable parts between the tip and motor housing as specified in Sections 308.1(c) and 309, and shall be designed in a manner that will prevent backflow into enclosed parts of the motor housing.

304.9 Operators shall ensure that a hand tool used to insert pigment shall be disposed of in a sharps medical-grade container, with the sharps intact, unless the needle can be mechanically ejected from the hand tool and disposed of in a sharps container, and the handle is then immediately sterilized before reuse.

304.10 Operators shall ensure body art establishments:

(a) Place clean instruments to be sterilized first in sealed peel-packs that contain either a sterilizer indicator or internal temperature indicator. The outside of the pack shall be labeled with the name of the instrument, the date sterilized, and the initials of the person operating the sterilizing equipment;

(b) Place clean instruments and sterilized instrument packs in clean, dry, labeled container, or store in a labeled cabinet that is protected from dust and moisture;

(c) Store sterilized instruments in the intact peel-packs or in the sterilization equipment cartridge until time of use; and

(d) Evaluate sterilized instrument packs at the time of storage and before use. If the integrity of the pack is compromised, including but not limited to cases where the pack is torn, punctured, wet, or displaying any evidence of moisture contamination, the pack shall be discarded or reprocessed before use.

304.11 Operators shall ensure that reusable instruments or jewelry that come in contact with a customer, are sterilized as specified in Section 311.

304.12 Operators shall ensure that all reusable instruments shall be bagged, dated, and sealed before sterilizing.

304.13 Operators shall ensure that reusable instruments shall be sterilized in an FDA validated medical sterilizer in accordance with manufacturer instructions.

304.14 Operators shall ensure that after sterilizing equipment, the equipment shall be stored in a non-porous, dark, dry, cool place, such as a medical credenza.

304.15 Operators shall ensure that each body art establishment shall be equipped with a working sterilizer and with appropriate cleansing equipment, such as a working ultrasonic cleaner.

304.16 Operators shall ensure that at least one covered, foot operated solid waste receptacle, lined with disposable bags shall be provided in each:

(a) Workstation;

(b) At each handwash sink; and

(c) In each toilet room.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 304
25-G DCMR § 305 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ MARKING INSTRUMENTS AND STENCILS*

305.1 All licensed operators shall use marking instruments that are single-use and shall be used only on intact skin that has been treated with a germicidal soap.

305.2 Marking instruments that come in contact with mucous membranes or broken skin shall be single-use.

305.3 All stencils shall be single-use.

305.4 Petroleum jellies, soaps, and other products used in the application of stencils shall be dispensed and applied using an aseptic technique and in a manner that prevents contamination of the original container and its content.

305.5 If measuring the body-piercing site is necessary, clean calipers shall be used and the skin marked using a single-use disposable implement, which includes a toothpick and non-toxic ink or a single-use skin marker, and discarded immediately after the procedure.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 305
25-G DCMR § 306 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ pre-sterilized, single-use JEWELRY*

306.1 Jewelry inserted into a healed piercing that has not been previously worn or contaminated shall be disinfected in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions with a non-hazardous disinfectant approved by the EPA.

306.2 Jewelry placed in newly pierced skin shall be sterilized prior to piercing as specified in Subsection 304.12 or shall be purchased pre-sterilized as specified in Sections 309, 310, and 312.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 306
25-G DCMR § 307 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ Biohazard and infectious waste, HANDLING AND DISPOSAL*

307.1 Operators shall ensure all sharps are disposed of in medical-grade sharps containers and disposed of by professional environmental infectious waste disposal companies licensed in the District of Columbia, in accordance with Subsection 508.3.

307.2 All other supplies or materials that are contaminated with blood or other body fluids that are generated during a body art process, including but not limited to cotton balls, cotton tip applicators, corks, toothpicks, tissues, paper towels, gloves, single-use plastic covering, and pigment containers shall be discarded immediately; or shall be placed in red biohazard waste bags and disposed of by a professional environmental infectious waste disposal company licensed in the District of Columbia, in accordance with Subsection 508.3.

307.3 Solid waste that is not contaminated shall be placed in easily cleanable, sealed containers and disposed of in accordance with Section 506.

307.4 All solid waste containers shall be kept closed when not in use, and shall comply with Section 506.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 307
25-G DCMR § 308 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ INFECTION PREVENTION AND EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN

308.1 Operators shall ensure that each body art establishment develops, maintains and follows a written Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan provided by the operator that identifies the following;

(a) Policies and procedures on universal precautions for exposure to bloodborne pathogens from blood and other potentially infectious materials;

(b) Policies and procedures for decontaminating and disinfecting environmental surfaces;

(c) Policies and procedures for decontaminating, packaging, sterilizing, and storing reusable instruments;

(d) Policies and procedures for protecting clean instruments and sterile instrument packs from exposure to dust and moisture during storage;

(e) Policies and procedures for setting up and tearing down workstations for all body art procedures performed at the body art establishment;

(f) Policies and procedures to prevent the contamination of instruments or the procedure site during a body art procedure;

(g) Policies and procedures for safe handling and disposal of sharps and bio-hazardous waste; and

(h) Recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to control the spread of infectious disease and treat all human blood and bodily fluids as infectious through universal precautions.

308.2 Operators shall ensure routine on-site training on the establishment’s Infection Prevention and Exposure Control Plan, and shall require additional training when a body artist:

(a) Is exposed to an occupational hazard;

(b) Performs a new procedure or there is a change in a procedure; and

(c) The establishment purchases new equipment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 308
25-G DCMR § 309 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION ─ REUSABLE INSTRUMENTS AND sterilization procedures*

309.1 Operators shall ensure reusable instruments are cleaned by gloved personnel prior to sterilization using the following methods:

(a) Pre-clean the items in an ultrasonic cleaning unit used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A copy of the manufacturers recommended procedures for operation of the ultrasonic cleaning unit shall be available for inspection by an authorized agent of the Department;

(b) Manually clean the items by using a stiff bristle brush under water with a solution of low-residue detergent, with care taken to ensure the removal of any pigment or body substances not visible to the eye, thoroughly rinse with at least warm water and then drain, and clean by soaking in a protein dissolving detergent-enzyme cleaner used according to the manufacturer’s instructions; or

(c) Rinse and dry the items prior to packaging for sterilization.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 309
25-G DCMR § 310 MAINTENANCE RECORDS ─ STERILIZERS AND commercial biological indicator monitoring system, AND RETENTION*

310.1 Operators shall ensure that sterilizers are loaded, operated, decontaminated, and maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions, and only equipment manufactured for the sterilization of medical instruments shall be used.

310.2 Sterilization equipment shall be tested using a commercial biological indicator monitoring systems (“monitor”) after:

(a) Initial installation;

(b) Major repair;

(c) At least once per month; or

(d) At a minimum in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommendation.

310.3 The expiration date of a monitor shall be checked prior to each use.

310.4 Each sterilization load shall be monitored with mechanical indicators for time, temperature, pressure, and at a minimum, Class V Indicators. Each individual sterilization pack shall have an indicator.

310.5 Biological indicator monitoring test results shall be recorded in a log that shall be kept on the premises for three (3) years after the date of the results.

310.6 A daily written log of each sterilization cycle shall be maintained on the premises for three (3) years for inspection by the Department and shall include the following information:

(a) The date of the load;

(b) A list of the contents of the load;

(c) The exposure time and temperature;

(d) The results of the Class V Indicator; and

(e) For cycles where the results of the biological indicator monitoring test are positive, how the items were cleaned, and proof of a negative test before reuse.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 310
25-G DCMR § 311 MAINTENANCE RECORDS ─ STERILIZERS*

311.1 The Department shall require calibration of all sterilization equipment by an independent laboratory that will calibrate the equipment biennially or more frequently if recommended by the manufacturer and records of the calibrations shall be maintained on the premises for inspection by the Department for three (3) years.

311.2 Sterilizers shall be spore tested in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and records of the spore tests shall be maintained on the premises for three (3) years after the date of the results for inspection by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 311
25-G DCMR § 312 RECORDS OF ACQUISITIONS ─ disposables, single-use, pre-sterilized instruments, AND RECORD RETENTION*

312.1 Operators that do not provide access to a decontamination and sterilization area that is in compliance with these regulations, or that do not have sterilization equipment as specified in Section 310 shall:

(a) Ensure only pre-sterilized instruments, and disposable, single-use supplies are used as specified in Subsection 200.5;

(b) Purchase disposable, single-use latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic gloves; cleansing products; and FDA-approved medical-grade instruments as defined in these regulations; and

(c) Maintain for ninety (90) days:

(1) A record of the purchase and use of all pre-sterilized medical-grade instruments, disposable, single-use supplies, and pigments as specified in Subsection 314.1;

(2) A record of all body art procedures, including the names of the tattoo artist or body-piercer and the customer; and

(3) The date of the body art procedure.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 312
25-G DCMR § 313 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ CONFIDENTIAL, PERSONNEL FILES*

313.1 Operators shall maintain a procedural manual at the body art establishment which shall be available at all times to operators and the Department during each inspection.

313.2 Each body art establishment’s personnel manual shall maintain the following information regarding body artist, in addition to Subsection 200.4:

(a) Full legal name;

(b) Home address and telephone number(s);

(c) Professional licenses and training certifications, if applicable; and

(d) Proof that he or she is eighteen (18) years of age or older with a driver’s license or other government issued identification containing the date of birth and a photograph of the individual, or school issued identifications; and

(e) Proof of compliance with pre-employment requirement of current hepatitis B vaccination, including applicable boosters, unless the body artist:

Demonstrates hepatitis B immunity; or

(2) Compliance with current federal OSHA hepatitis B vaccination declination requirements.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 313
25-G DCMR § 314 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ REQUIRED DISCLOSURES*

314.1 Each body art establishment offering tattoo procedures shall keep on the premises documentation of the following information, and shall disclose and provide this information to customers upon request:

(a) The actual pigments used in the body art establishment;

(b) The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the suppliers and manufacturers of pigments used in the body art establishment for the past three (3) years; and

(c) Identification of any recalled pigments used in the establishment for the past three (3) years and the supplier and manufacturer of each pigment.

314.2 A list of emergency contact numbers shall be easily accessible to all personnel and shall include, but is not limited to:

(1) The nearest hospital;

(2) The nearest fire department; and

(3) Emergency 911 service.

314.3 All files identified in this section that are maintained electronically shall be frequently backed up and accessible from multiple locations, if applicable.

314.4 An electronic record shall be retrievable as a printed copy.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 314
25-G DCMR § 315 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ RETENTION

315.1 The operator shall maintain all records at the establishment for at least three (3) years or longer if required by any other applicable District law or regulation. The records shall be readily available for review by the Department upon request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 315
25-G DCMR § 316 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ REPORTS OF Infection or Allergic Reactions

316.1 Operators shall maintain a document called a “Report of Infection or Allergic Reactions” that details infections and allergic reactions reported to the body artist or the body art establishment by a customer, as specified in Section 204.2(e).

316.2 Operators shall submit to the Department a written report of any diagnosed infections or allergic reactions resulting from a body art procedure within five (5) business days of its occurrence or knowledge thereof, as specified in Subsection 204.3(e).

316.3 The report shall include the following information:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the affected customer;

(b) Name, location, telephone number and license number of the establishment where the body art procedure was performed;

(c) The complete legal name of the body artist and his or her license number;

(d) The date the body art procedure was performed;

(e) The specific color or colors of the tattoo or type of jewelry used for the body-piercing, and when available, the manufacturer’s catalogue or identification number of each color or type of jewelry used;

(f) The location of the infection and the location on the body where the body art was applied;

(g) The name and address of the health care practitioner, if any; and

(h) Any other information considered relevant to the situation.

316.4 The Department shall use these reports in their efforts to identify the source of the adverse reactions and to take action to prevent its recurrence.

316.5 Operators shall maintain all reports pertaining to infections and allergic reactions at the establishment for review until the Department authorizes their disposal, as specified in Subsection 315.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 316

25-G4 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE, OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN

25-G DCMR § 400 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS ─ REPORTS OF Infection or Allergic Reactions

316.1 Operators shall maintain a document called a “Report of Infection or Allergic Reactions” that details infections and allergic reactions reported to the body artist or the body art establishment by a customer, as specified in Section 204.2(e).

316.2 Operators shall submit to the Department a written report of any diagnosed infections or allergic reactions resulting from a body art procedure within five (5) business days of its occurrence or knowledge thereof, as specified in Subsection 204.3(e).

316.3 The report shall include the following information:

(a) Name, address, and telephone number of the affected customer;

(b) Name, location, telephone number and license number of the establishment where the body art procedure was performed;

(c) The complete legal name of the body artist and his or her license number;

(d) The date the body art procedure was performed;

(e) The specific color or colors of the tattoo or type of jewelry used for the body-piercing, and when available, the manufacturer’s catalogue or identification number of each color or type of jewelry used;

(f) The location of the infection and the location on the body where the body art was applied;

(g) The name and address of the health care practitioner, if any; and

(h) Any other information considered relevant to the situation.

316.4 The Department shall use these reports in their efforts to identify the source of the adverse reactions and to take action to prevent its recurrence.

316.5 Operators shall maintain all reports pertaining to infections and allergic reactions at the establishment for review until the Department authorizes their disposal, as specified in Subsection 315.1.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 316
25-G DCMR § 401 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTURES, COVERED, AND ENCLOSED OR SEALED

401.1 Exterior floor and wall junctures shall be covered and closed to no larger than one millimeter (1 mm.) or one thirty-second of an inch (1/32 in.).

401.2 Covering of floor and wall junctures shall be sealed.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 401
25-G DCMR § 402 PHYSICAL STRUCTURE ─ FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND UTILITY LINES

402.1 All procedure areas and instrument cleaning areas shall have floors, walls and ceilings constructed of smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable material. Outer openings shall provide protection against contamination from dust and other contaminants.

402.2 All floors, floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable, except that antislip floor coverings or applications may be used for safety reasons.

402.3 All facilities shall have a waiting area that is separate from the body art procedure area, and from the instrument cleaning, sterilization, and storage areas.

402.4 The floors in the restrooms and locker rooms that are next to showers or toilets, or any other wet areas, shall be constructed of smooth, durable, nonabsorbent, and easily cleanable material.

402.5 Every concrete, tile, ceramic, or vinyl floor installed in bathrooms, restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms, which are next to showers or toilets, shall be covered at the junctures between the floor and the walls.

402.6 All material used to cover the junctures shall be fitted snugly to the floor and the walls so that they are water tight and there are no openings large enough to permit the entrance of vermin.

402.7 The material used in constructing the walls and ceilings must be joined along their edges so as to leave no open spaces or cracks.

402.8 Utility service lines and pipes shall not be unnecessarily exposed.

402.9 Exposed utility service lines and pipes shall be installed so they do not obstruct or prevent cleaning of the floors, walls, or ceilings.

402.10 Exposed horizontal utility service lines and pipes shall not be installed on the floor.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 402
25-G DCMR § 403 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ PLUMBING SYSTEM, DESIGN, WATER CAPACITY, QUANTITY, AND AVAILABILITY*

403.1 Each body art establishment’s plumbing system shall be designed, constructed, installed, and maintained according to the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement of 2013) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and shall be of sufficient size to:

Meet the water demands of the body art establishment.

Meet the hot water demands throughout the body art establishment.

(c) Properly convey sewage and liquid disposable waste from the premises;

(d) Avoid creating any unsanitary condition or constituting a source of contamination to potable water, or tattoo or body-piercing equipment, instruments; and

(e) Provide sufficient floor drainage to prevent excessive pooling of water or other disposable waste in all areas where floors are subject to flooding-type cleaning or where normal operations release or discharge water or other liquid waste on the floor.

403.2 Each plumbing fixture such as a handwashing facility, toilet, or urinal shall be easily cleanable.N

403.3 Each body art establishment shall be equipped with at least one janitorial sink.

403.4 Each body art establishment shall be equipped with effective plumbing and sewage facilities and adequate accommodations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 403
25-G DCMR § 404 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ HANDWASHING SINKS, WATER TEMPERATURE, AND FLOW

404.1 All handwashing sinks, including those in toilet rooms, shall be equipped to provide water at a temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit (100 °F) (thirty-eight degrees Celsius (38 °C)) through a mixing valve, a combination faucet, or tempered water and a single faucet.

404.2 A steam mixing valve shall not be used at a handwashing sink.

404.3 A self-closing, slow-closing, or metering faucet shall provide a flow of water for at least fifteen (15) seconds without the need to reactivate the faucet.

404.4 Any automatic handwashing facility shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

404.5 At least one (1) handwashing sink is required at a workstation. However, for every four (4) workstations, beyond the first workstation, an additional handwashing sink is also required. All handwashing sinks shall be conveniently located and used exclusively by body piercers or tattoo artists for washing their hands and preparing their clients for body piercing or tattooing. Use of the handwashing sink in the toilet area identified in Subsection 505.2 is prohibited for this purpose.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 404
25-G DCMR § 405 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ TOILETS AND URINALS, NUMBER, CAPACITY, CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY, ENCLOSURES, AND PROHIBITION*

405.1 Toilet facilities shall be provided in accordance with the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement of 2013) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations and maintained as specified in Section 500.

405.2 The operator shall, at a minimum:

(a) Maintain the toilet facilities in a sanitary condition that is clean and free of solid waste and litter;

(b) Keep the facilities in good repair at all times; and

(c) Provide self-closing doors or locking door.

405.3 All single-stall toilet rooms shall display gender-neutral signs on the door that read “Restroom,” or have a universally recognized picture/symbol indicating that persons of any gender may use each restroom, in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977, as amended (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2016 Repl.)).

405.4 Body art establishments employing:

Five (5) or fewer body artists may provide a single toilet facility with a gender-neutral sign on the door in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977, as amended (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2016 Repl.)); or

(b) More than five (5) body artists shall have multiple toilet facilities that are either:

(1) Single-stall toilet rooms with a gender-neutral sign on each door as specified in Subsection 3101.2 in accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, effective December 13, 1977, as amended (D.C. Law 2-38; D.C. Official Code § 2-1403.01(c) (2016 Repl.)); or

(2) Multiple-stall toilet rooms with gender-specific signs on the doors that read “Men” and “Women” or contain gender-specific, universally recognized pictorials of “Men” and “Women”.

405.5 A toilet room located on the premises shall be completely enclosed and provided with a tight-fitting and self-closing door or locking doors, except that this requirement does not apply to a toilet room that is located outside a body art establishment.

405.6 Toilet room doors shall be kept closed except during cleaning and maintenance operations.

405.7 Each body art establishment shall maintain toilet facilities for body artists, which shall consist of a toilet room or toilet rooms with proper and sufficient water closets and lavatories. Toilet facilities shall be conveniently located and readily accessible to all personnel and customers.

405.8 Toilet facilities shall be deemed conveniently located and accessible to body artists during all hours of operation if they are:

(a) Located within the same building as the business they serve; and

Accessible during working hours without going outside the building.

405.9 At no time shall consumers or body artists enter the bathroom, restroom, or locker room during routine cleaning or maintenance emergency.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 405
25-G DCMR § 406 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ ELECTRICAL, LIGHTING*

406.1 All rooms of a body art establishment shall have at least one (1) electrical source of light. Lighting luminaries and fixtures may be of incandescent, fluorescent, high density discharge, or light emitting dial (LED) types.

406.2 At least fifty (50) foot-candles of artificial light shall be provided in each procedure area that is positioned at the height of the workstation, and shall be provided in all decontamination and sterilization areas.

406.3 At least twenty (20) foot-candles of light shall be provided in each restroom, locker room, toilet room, or other areas when fully illuminated for cleaning.

406.4 An average illumination value of ten (10) foot-candles of light, but never less than seven and a half (7.5) foot-candles of light, shall be provided in other areas within a body art establishment, including offices, lobbies, retail shops, and waiting areas.

406.5 The above illumination levels shall be attainable at all times while the body art establishment is occupied.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 406
25-G DCMR § 407 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ ELECTRICAL, SMOKE ALARMS

407.1 Each distinct area of a body art establishment separated by a doorway, whether or not a door is currently present, shall be equipped with at least one (1) working smoke alarm which is installed, maintained, and tested according to the International Fire Code (2012 edition), Subtitle H (Fire Code Supplement of 2013) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations.

407.2 The smoke alarm shall be free of foreign matter such as tape or paint which could impair its proper function.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 407
25-G DCMR § 408 OPERATING SYSTEMS AND DESIGN ─ HEATING AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS

408.1 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be adequately ventilated so that excessive moisture is removed from the room. Acceptable ventilation includes mechanical exhaust ventilation, a recirculating vent, or screened windows.

408.2 Each system for heating, cooling, or ventilation shall be properly maintained and operational at all times when the rooms are occupied.

408.3 All restrooms, locker rooms, and toilet rooms shall be capable of being maintained at a temperature between sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (68 °F) (twenty degrees Celsius (20 °C)) and eighty degrees Fahrenheit (80 °F) (twenty-seven degrees Celsius (27 °C)) while being used by customers.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 408

25-G5 FACILITY MAINTENANCE

25-G DCMR § 500 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ TOILETS AND URINALS, MAINTENANCE*

500.1 Each body art establishment’s plumbing system shall be:

(a) Repaired according to the International Plumbing Code (2012 edition), Subtitle F (Plumbing Code Supplement of 2013) of Title 12 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations; and

(b) Maintained in good repair.

500.2 The operator shall provide a supply of toilet tissue and waste receptacle at each toilet room, and covered waste receptacles for hygienic products in any toilet room used by women.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 500
25-G DCMR § 501 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ HANDWASHING SINKS, CLEANSER AVAILABILITY, HAND DRYING PROVISION, AND HANDWASHING SIGNAGE

501.1 There shall be at least one (1) handwashing sink in a body art establishment.

501.2 Each handwashing sink or group of two (2) adjacent sinks shall be provided with hand cleaning liquid or powder.

501.3 Each handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks shall be provided with:

(a) Individual, disposable towels; or

(b) A heated-air, hand-drying device.

501.4 A sign or poster that notifies employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 501
25-G DCMR § 502 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ HANDWASHING SINKS, DISPOSABLE TOWELS, AND WASTE RECEPTACLES

502.1 A handwashing sink or group of adjacent sinks that is supplied with disposable towels or suitable drying devices shall be provided with a waste receptacle.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 502
25-G DCMR § 503 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ FLOOR COVERING, RESTRICTIONS, INSTALLATION, CLEANABILITY

503.1 A floor covering such as carpeting or similar material shall not be installed as a floor covering in toilet room areas where handwashing sinks, toilets, or urinals are located; refuse storage rooms; or other areas where the floor is subject to moisture.

503.2 The operator or manager shall inspect the premises prior to opening each day and throughout the day as necessary to ensure that the floors are clean and dry.

503.3 Mats and duckboards shall be designed to be removable and easily cleanable.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 503
25-G DCMR § 504 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ FLOORS, PUBLIC AREAS

504.1 The physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair and cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean.

504.2 Every floor and floor covering shall be kept clean and in good repair, sanitized, or replaced so that it does not become a hazard to health or safety.

504.3 All public areas of a body art establishment, such as the lobbies and merchandising and retail areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, free of litter, rubbish, and nuisances.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 504
25-G DCMR § 505 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ CLEANABILITY, SANITIZATION AND MAINTENANCE OF PLUMBING FIXTURES

505.1 Plumbing fixtures such as handwashing sinks, toilets, and urinals shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and well-maintained.

505.2 All body art establishments shall be equipped with toilet facilities, which include a water closet and handwashing sinks, including hot and cold running water, hand cleaning liquid or powder, and a paper towel dispenser or equivalent hand drying equipment.

505.3 Each body art establishment used for tattoo or body piercing shall contain a mop sink and a hand sink with hot and cold running water, antibacterial soap and single-use towels in dispensers.

505.4 All restrooms shall be kept in sanitary condition and good repair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 505
25-G DCMR § 506 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ REFUSE, REMOVAL FREQUENCY

506.1 An inside storage room or area, outside storage area or enclosure, and receptacles shall be of sufficient capacity to hold the refuse that accumulate.

506.2 Refuse, excluding biohazardous waste, shall be placed in a lined waste receptacle and disposed of at a frequency that does not create a health or sanitation hazard.

506.3 Receptacles and waste handling units shall be designed and constructed with tight-fitting lids, doors, or covers.

506.4 Receptacles and waste handling units shall be durable, cleanable, insect- and rodent-resistant, leakproof, nonabsorbent, and maintained in good repair.

506.5 If used, an outdoor enclosure for refuse shall be constructed of durable and cleanable materials and shall be located so that a public health hazard or nuisance is not created.

506.6 An outdoor storage surface for refuse shall be constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt and shall be smooth, durable, and sloped to drain.

506.7 Storage areas, enclosures, and receptacles for refuse shall be maintained in good repair.

506.8 Storage areas and enclosures for refuse shall be kept clean and maintained free of unnecessary items, as specified in Subsections 507.1 and 507.2.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 506
25-G DCMR § 507 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ UNNECESSARY ITEMS, LITTER, AND CONTROLLING AND REMOVING PESTS

507.1 The grounds surrounding a body art establishment under the control of the operator shall be kept in a clean and litter-free condition.

507.2 The methods for adequate maintenance of grounds include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Properly storing or removing unnecessary equipment that is nonfunctional or no longer used, removing litter and waste, and cutting weeds or grass within the immediate vicinity of the physical facility that may constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests;

(b) Maintaining roads and parking lots so that they do not constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests; and

(c) Adequately draining areas that may provide an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests.

507.3 If a body art establishment’s grounds are bordered by grounds not under the operator's control and not maintained in the manner described in Subsections 507.1 and 507.2, care shall be exercised by the operator through inspection, extermination, or other means to exclude pests, dirt, and filth that may become an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests.

507.4 Methods for maintaining a sanitary operation include providing sufficient space for placement and proper storage of equipment, instruments, and supplies.

507.5 The presence of insects, rodents, and other pests shall be controlled to eliminate their presence on the premises by:

(a) Routinely inspecting the premises for evidence of pests;

(b) Using methods, if pests are found, such as trapping devices or other means of pest control; and

(c) Eliminating harborage conditions.

507.6 Dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, and other pests shall be removed from a trap or the traps shall be discarded from the premises at a frequency that prevents accumulation, decomposition, or the attraction of other pests.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 507
25-G DCMR § 508 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS

508.1 The operator shall maintain a copy of the body art establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed pest exterminator/contractor;

(b) Frequency of extermination services provided under the contract; and

(c) The date on which extermination services were last provided to the establishment.

508.2 The operator shall maintain a copy of the body art establishment’s professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its District-licensed solid waste contractor; and

(b) Frequency of solid waste collection provided under the contract.

508.3 Operators shall maintain a record of the body art establishment’s receipts and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(a) Name and address of its D.C. licensed environmental Biohazard Waste Disposal Company; and

(b) Frequency of pickup services of biohazard waste, including but not limited to sharps; medical-grade gloves; disposable, single use cleaning products; and when necessary, materials requiring “red bag” (biohazard) disposal shall comply with 29 CFR § 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(A) – Contaminated Sharps Discarding and Containment; and 29 CFR § 1910.1030(d)(4)(iii)(B) – Other Regulated Waste Containment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 508
25-G DCMR § 509 FACILITY MAINTENANCE ─ PROHIBITING ANIMALS*

509.1 With the exception of service animals, animals shall not be allowed in the body art procedure areas, decontamination or sterilization areas, or storage areas.

509.2 Fish aquariums are not allowed in procedure areas.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 509

25-G6 APPLICATION AND LEASING REQUIREMENTS

25-G DCMR § 600 LICENSE AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS

600.1 No person shall operate a body art establishment in the District without a valid body art establishment license issued by the Mayor.

600.2 No operator shall employ or permit a body artist to perform body art procedures in their body art establishment without a valid body artist license issued by the Mayor.

600.3 No person shall operate a body art establishment in the District with an expired or suspended body art establishment license.

600.4 No operator shall employ or permit a body artist to perform body art procedures in their establishment with an expired or suspended body artist license.

600.5 No person shall open or operate a body art establishment in the District without a valid Certificate of Occupancy.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 600
25-G DCMR § 601 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ PERIOD AND FORM OF SUBMISSION, PROCESSING

601.1 An applicant shall submit an application for a license at least thirty (30) calendar days before the date planned for opening a body art establishment or at least thirty (30) calendar days before the expiration date of the current license for an existing body art establishment.

601.2 Licenses shall be valid for a two (2) year period and renewed every two (2) years.

601.3 An applicant shall submit a written application for a body art establishment license on a form provided by the Department.

601.4 A new application shall be filed with the Department within thirty (30) days of any change in ownership or location. An applicant shall also notify the Department immediately if the applicant decides not to open, sell, or transfer the business at the location identified in the application.

601.5 The Department shall not process applications for a change in ownership or location where administrative actions are pending against an existing establishment that has not been resolved.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 601
25-G DCMR § 602 APPLICATION PROCEDURE ─ CONTENTS OF THE APPLICATION PACKET

602.1 An application for a license to operate a body art establishment shall include the full name(s) or any other name(s), including alias used by the applicant, and the following information:

(a) The present address and telephone number of each applicant:

(1) If the applicant is an individual, the individual’s residential address;

(2) If the applicant is a corporation, the names, including aliases and residential addresses of each of the officers and directors of said corporation and each stock holder owning more than ten percent (10%) of the stock of the corporation, and the address of the corporation itself if it is different from the address of the body art establishment; or the address of the partnership itself if different from the address of the body art establishment;

(3) If the applicant is a partnership, the names, including aliases and residential addresses of each partner, including limited partners, and the body art establishment;

(b) Name and address of registered agent, if applicable;

(c) The address and all telephone numbers of the body art establishment;

(d) A complete set of construction plans including all schedules (for example, floor plans, elevations, and electrical schematics), if applicable, as specified in Subsection 400.3;

(e) Proof that the owner applicants and operators are at least the age of majority by a Driver’s license, non-Driver’s license, or other Government issued identification that displays the applicant or operator’s date of birth;

(f) Whether the owner applicants have owned or operated a body art establishment or other business in the District, another city, county or state, and if this business license:

(1) Has ever been suspended or revoked; and

(2) The reason for the suspension or revocation;

(g) A description of any other business to be operated on the same premises or on adjoining premises owned or operated by the owner applicant(s) or manager(s); and

(h) The name and home address (non-business address) of each licensed manager who is employed or will be employed in the body art establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 602
25-G DCMR § 603 DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR LICENSE ─ NOTICE

603.1 If an application for a license or a renewal of a license is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denial of the license;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new license or to renew a license; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s or licensee’s right to a hearing as prescribed in Subsection 812.3.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 603
25-G DCMR § 604 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ NEW, CONVERTED OR REMODELED, EXISTING OPERATIONS, AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP OR LOCATION

604.1 Each applicant shall submit:

(a) A properly completed application packet provided by the Department;

(b) Copies of policies and procedures as specified in Sections 300 through 309;

(c) Copies of required recordkeeping as specified in Sections 310 through 316 for license renewals;

(d) Proof of payment of the application and license fees; and

(e) Proof of the Department’s review and approval of required plans and specifications as specified in Sections 400.3 and 604, if applicable.

604.2 If the applicant complies with Sections 600, 601, 602, 604, and 605 and the Department determines through its inspection as specified in Section 606 that the operation is in compliance with these regulations, the Department shall approve:

(a) A new body art establishment;

(b) An existing body art establishment that has changed ownership or location; or

(c) An existing body art establishment’s license renewal.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 604
25-G DCMR § 605 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

605.1 An applicant or operator shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) The construction of a body art establishment;

(b) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a body art establishment; or

(c) Major renovation, remodeling, or alteration of an existing body art establishment.

605.2 Plans required by this section shall include specifications showing layout, arrangement, and construction materials, and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.

605.3 Plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee shall be submitted at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a body art establishment.

605.4 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of these regulations, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or operator within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

605.5 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 605
25-G DCMR § 606 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE ─ REQUIRED PLAN REVIEWS AND APPROVALS

605.1 An applicant or operator shall submit to the Department for review and approval properly prepared plans and specifications before:

(a) The construction of a body art establishment;

(b) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a body art establishment; or

(c) Major renovation, remodeling, or alteration of an existing body art establishment.

605.2 Plans required by this section shall include specifications showing layout, arrangement, and construction materials, and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.

605.3 Plans, specifications, an application form, and the applicable fee shall be submitted at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning construction, remodeling, or conversion of a body art establishment.

605.4 The Department shall approve the completed plans and specifications if they meet the requirements of these regulations, and the Department shall report its findings to the license applicant or operator within thirty (30) days of the date the completed plans are received.

605.5 Plans and specifications that are not approved as submitted shall be changed to comply or be deleted from the project.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 605
25-G DCMR § 607 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE – NOTICE OF OPENING, DISCONTINUANCE OF OPERATION, AND POSTINGS

607.1 An operator shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to operate the establishment at least thirty (30) calendar days before beginning operations.

607.2 An operator shall provide notice to the Department of its intent to shut down permanently. The operator’s license and certificate of occupancy shall be returned to the Department and the owner shall be required to submit a new application for the issuance of a new license prior to reopening.

607.3 An operator shall notify the Department at least thirty (30) days in advance of its intent to close temporarily.

607.4 A current inspection report, all valid licenses, a Certificate of Occupancy, including the “Age Restriction Signs” required in Subsection 201.3, and the “Required Disclosure” required in Subsection 202.3 shall be conspicuously posted in the reception area next to the body art establishment’s license.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 607
25-G DCMR § 608 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE – NOT TRANSFERABLE

608.1 A body art establishment license shall not be transferred from one person to another person or from one location to another.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 608
25-G DCMR § 609 ISSUANCE OF LICENSE – DUPLICATES

609.1 An operator shall submit a request for a duplicate body art establishment license that has been lost, destroyed or mutilated on a form provided by the Department and payment of the required fee.

609.2 Each duplicate license shall have a secured watermark of the word “DUPLICATE” across the face of the license, and shall bear the same number as the license it is replacing.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 609
25-G DCMR § 610 CONDITIONS OF LICENSE RETENTION ─ RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OPERATOR

610.1 Upon receipt of a license issued by the Department, the operator, in order to retain the license, shall comply with Subsections 610.2 through 610.8.

610.2 An operator shall post a current inspection report, and all valid licenses, Certificate of Occupancy, including the “Age Restriction Sign” required in Subsection 201.3, and “Required Disclosure” required in Subsections 202.3, shall be conspicuously posted in the reception area next to the body art establishment’s license.

610.3 An operator shall comply with the provisions of these regulations and approved plans as specified in Section 605.

610.4 An operator shall allow representatives of the Department access to its body art establishment as specified in Section 700.

610.5 An operator shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department if an imminent health hazard exists as specified in Section 706.

610.6 The Department may direct the replacement of existing operating systems, or equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings where existing equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings are not safe to operate, are not in good repair or are not capable of being maintained in a hygienic condition in compliance with these regulations as specified in Subsection 102.2(a).

610.7 An operator shall replace existing operating systems, or equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings that do not comply with these regulations pursuant to a documented agreement with the Department by an agreed upon date with an operating system, equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings that comply with these regulations as specified in Subsection 102.2(b).

610.8 An operator shall maintain all records in accordance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 610

25-G7 INSPECTIONS, REPORTS, VIOLATIONS, CORRECTIONS, AND PROHIBITED CONDUCT AND ACTIVITIES

25-G DCMR § 700 ACCESS & INSPECTION FREQUENCY ─ DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY, DENIAL - MISDEMEANOR*

700.1 The Department shall determine a body art establishment’s compliance with these regulations by conducting on-site:

(a) Preoperational inspections;

(b) Unannounced, routine and follow-up inspections; and

(c) Unannounced, complaint-generated inspections.

700.2 After representatives of the Department present official credentials and provide notice of the purpose and intent to conduct an inspection in accordance with these regulations, the applicant or operator shall allow the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a body art establishment, except when a private session is in progress.

700.3 The Department may enter and inspect all aspects of a body art establishment, including but not limited to work stations, locker rooms, bathrooms, lounge areas, or other areas of a body art establishment for any of the following purposes:

(a) To determine if the body art establishment is in compliance with these regulations;

(b) To investigate an emergency affecting the public health if the body art establishment is or may be involved in the matter causing the emergency;

(c) To investigate, examine, and sample or swab equipment, devices, fixtures, supplies, or furnishings, except during any procedural session as specified in Subsection 700.2; or

(d) To obtain information and examine and copy all records on the premises including but not limited to instruments, equipment, manufacturers, records and maintenance logs, supplies and suppliers, service contracts, or furnishings used in a body art establishment.

700.4 If a person denies the Department access to any part, portion, or area of a body art establishment, the Department shall inform the individual that:

(a) The applicant or operator is required to allow access to the Department, as specified in Subsection 700.2;

(b) Access is a condition of the receipt and retention of a license as specified in Subsection 610.4;

(c) If access is denied, an inspection order allowing access may be obtained as specified in Subsection 700.6(c); and

(d) The Department is making a final request for access.

700.5 If the Department presents credentials and provides notice as specified in Subsection 700.2, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for access as specified in Subsection 700.4(d), and the applicant or operator continues to refuse access, the Department shall provide details of the denial of access on the inspection report.

700.6 If the Department is denied access to a body art establishment for an authorized purpose, after complying with Subsections 700.2 through 700.5, the Department may:

(a) Summarily suspend a license to operate a body art establishment in accordance with Section 807;

(b) Revoke or suspend a license to operate a body art establishment in accordance with Section 812; or

(c) Request that the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia commence an appropriate civil action in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to secure a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction, or other appropriate relief from the court including but not limited to administrative search warrants, to enforce these regulations in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2012 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 700
25-G DCMR § 701 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ DOCUMENTING INFORMATION AND OBSERVATIONS

701.1 The Department shall document on an inspection report form:

(a) Administrative information about the body art establishment’s legal identity, street and mailing addresses, inspection date, and other information such as status of the license and personnel certificates that may be required or other inspectional findings; and

(b) Specific factual observations of violations of these regulations that require correction by the operator including:

(1) Nonconformance with critical items of these regulations;

(2) Failure of an operator to correct cited violations, as specified in Section 709 or 711; or

(3) Failure of an operator to ensure that personnel are licensed as specified in Sections 200 and 600.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 701
25-G DCMR § 702 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ SPECIFYING TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIONS

702.1 The Department shall specify on the inspection report the time frame for correction of violations as specified in Sections 709 and 711.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 702
25-G DCMR § 703 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ ISSUING REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT

703.1 At the conclusion of the inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the operator and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt. The most recent inspection report shall contain a listing of violations by area in the operation and inspection item with corresponding citations to applicable provisions in these regulations and shall be conspicuously posted in the reception area next to the body art establishment’s license.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 703
25-G DCMR § 704 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ REFUSAL TO SIGN ACKNOWLEDGMENT

704.1 The Department shall inform a person who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspection findings that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the operator’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the body art establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 704
25-G DCMR § 705 REPORT OF FINDINGS ─ PUBLIC INFORMATION, RECORDS RETENTION

705.1 The Department shall keep and maintain in-office as an active record a copy of each inspection report, complaint, inspector’s sample reports, license suspension, and other correspondence regarding a body art establishment within the District for a period of one (1) year, and then as an inactive record for a period of two (2) additional years. Inactive records shall be destroyed in-house at the end of the two (2)-year inactive period.

705.2 In the case of an audit or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit or investigation has been completed.

705.3 The Department shall treat the inspection report as a public document.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 705
25-G DCMR § 706 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ CEASING OPERATIONS AND EMERGENCY REPORTING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH*

706.1 The Department shall summarily suspend operations, or an operator shall immediately discontinue operations and notify the Department, whenever a body art establishment is operating with any of the following conditions:

(a) Extensive fire damage that affects the body art establishment’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(b) Serious flood damage that affects the body art establishment’s ability to comply with these regulations;

(c) Loss of electrical power to critical systems, including but not limited to lighting, heating, cooling, or ventilation controls for a period of two (2) or more hours;

(d) No water, or insufficient water capacity, or inadequate water pressure to any part of the body art establishment in violation of Subsection 403.1(a);

(e) No hot water, or an unplanned water outage, or the water supply is cut off in its entirety for a period of one (1) or more hours in violation of Subsection 403.1(b);

(f) Incorrect hot water temperatures that cannot be corrected during the course of the inspection in violation of Subsection 404.1;

(g) A plumbing system supplying potable water that may result in contamination of the potable water;

(h) A sewage backup or sewage that is not disposed of in an approved and sanitary manner;

(i) A cross-connection between the potable water and non-potable water distribution systems, including but not limited to landscape irrigation, air conditioning, heating, or fire suppression system;

(j) A back siphonage event;

(k) Toilet or handwashing facilities that are not properly designed, constructed, installed, or maintained in violation of Subsections 403, 404, and 405;

(l) Work surfaces, including but not limited to workstations, solid surfaces and objects in the procedure and decontamination areas within a body art establishment that are stained with blood or bodily fluids, or soiled; or infested with vermin; or are in an otherwise unsanitary condition;

(m) Gross insanitary occurrence or condition that may endanger public health including but not limited to an infestation of vermin; or

(n) Fails to eliminate the presence of insects, rodents, or other pests on the premises in violation of Subsection 507.3.

706.2 In addition to the imminent health hazards identified in Subsection 706.1, the Department shall summarily suspend operations if it determines through an inspection, or examination of records or other means as specified in Subsection 700.1, the existence of any other condition which endangers the public health, safety, or welfare, including but not limited to:

(a) Operating a body art establishment or performing a body art procedure without a license in violation of Subsection 600.1;

(b) Employing a body artist without a valid body artist license issued by the Mayor in violation of Subsection 600.2;

(c) Operating a body art establishment with an expired or suspended license in violation of Subsection 600.3;

(d) Employing a body artist who is performing body art procedures with an expired or suspended body artist license in violation of Subsection 600.4;

(e) Operating a body art establishment without a valid Certificate of Occupancy in violation of Subsection 600.5;

(f) Operating a body art establishment without posting required signage in violation of Subsection 607.4;

(g) Operating a body art establishment without a manager who is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of Subsection 200.2;

(h) Operating a body art establishment without a body artist who is on duty and on the premises during all hours of operation in violation of Subsection 200.3

(i) Failing to allow access to Department representatives during the facility’s hours of operation and other reasonable times as determined by the Department; or hindering, obstructing, or in any way interfering with any inspector or authorized Department personnel in the performance of his or her duty in violation of Section 700; or

(j) Operating in violation of any provision specified in Section 708.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 706
25-G DCMR § 707 IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD ─ RESUMPTION OF OPERATIONS

707.1 If operations are discontinued as specified in Section 706 or otherwise according to applicable D.C. laws and regulations, the operator shall obtain approval from the Department before resuming operations.

707.2 The Department shall determine whether an operator needs to discontinue operations that are unaffected by the imminent health hazard in a body art establishment as determined by the Department or other District agency.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 707
25-G DCMR § 708 PROHIBITED CONDUCT ─ ADVERTISEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES

708.1 No operator shall permit a person to perform or offer to perform body art procedures, use any words or letters, figures, titles, signs, cards, advertisement, or any other symbols or devices indicating or tending to indicate that the person is authorized to perform such services, or use other letters or titles in connection with that person’s name which in any way represents himself or herself as being engaged in the practice of body art, or authorized to do so, unless the person is licensed by and registered with the Mayor to perform body art procedures in the District of Columbia.

708.2 No operator shall permit a person to perform any body art procedure on anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years of age, except as specified in Subsection 201.2.

708.3 An operator shall not allow an ear piercing system to be used on any part of a customer’s body other than the lobe of the ear.

708.4 No operator shall allow a body art procedure to be performed if the customer is unable to exercise reasonable care and safety or is otherwise impaired by reason of illness, while under the influence of alcohol, or while using any controlled substance or narcotic drug as defined in 21 USC § 802(6) or (17), respectively, or other drug in excess of therapeutic amounts or without valid medical indication, or any combination thereof.

708.5 No one shall be tattooed or pierced at any location in the establishment other than in a designated work area.

708.6 No customer shall be allowed to perform their own tattoo, piercing or insertions anywhere on the premises.

708.7 No food, drink, tobacco product, or personal effects shall be allowed to contaminate a procedural area.

708.8 Body artists shall not eat or drink while performing a procedure. If a customer requests to eat, drink or smoke, the procedure shall be stopped and the procedure site shall be protected from possible contamination, and, if possible, the customer may leave the procedure area to eat or drink. The customer shall leave the procedure area to smoke.

708.9 During a branding procedure, an operator shall ensure the body artist and the customer wear appropriate protective face filter masks.

708.10 Body art procedures shall not be performed on animals in a body art establishment.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 708
25-G DCMR § 709 CRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION*

709.1 An operator shall, at the time of inspection, correct a critical violation no later than five (5) business days after the inspection.

709.2 The Department may consider the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed an additional five (5) business days, for the operator to correct a critical violation of these regulations.

709.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may subject an operator to a condemnation order pursuant to Section 802, summary suspension of a license pursuant to Section 807, revocation or suspension of a license pursuant to Section 812, or sanctions pursuant to Sections 1000 and 1001.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 709
25-G DCMR § 710 CRITICAL VIOLATION ─ VERIFICATION AND DOCUMENTATION OF CORRECTION

710.1 After receiving notification that the operator has corrected a critical violation, the Department shall verify correction of the violation, document the information on an inspection report, and enter the report in the Department's records.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 710
25-G DCMR § 711 NONCRITICAL VIOLATIONS ─ TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTION

711.1 The operator shall correct noncritical violations no later than fourteen (14) business days after the inspection.

711.2 The Department may consider the nature of the violation and the corrective action needed and agree to specify a longer timeframe, not to exceed an additional fourteen (14) business days for the operator to correct the violation.

711.3 Failure to correct violations in accordance with this section may result in the revocation or suspension of an operator’s license pursuant to Section 812, or sanctions pursuant to Sections 1000 and 1001.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 711
25-G DCMR § 712 REQUEST FOR REINSPECTION

712.1 If a license is summarily suspended pursuant to Section 807 or suspended or revoked pursuant to Section 812 because of violations of these regulations, the operator shall submit a handwritten, email, or fax request for a reinspection and pay the required reinspection fee.

712.2 Upon receipt of a request for reinspection, the Department shall conduct the reinspection of a body art establishment within three (3) business days of receipt of the request.

712.3 A body art establishment shall not resume operations or remove from public view any signage, license, Certificate of Occupancy, or current inspection result as specified in Subsection 607.4, or any enforcement order as specified in Subsection 707.1 until the Department has reinspected the body art establishment and certified that it is in compliance with these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 712

25-G8 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AND ORDERS

25-G DCMR § 800 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDIES

800.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of these regulations if an operator, person operating a body art establishment, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license as specified in Section 600;

(b) Fails to pay the required fee as specified in Subsection 604.1(d);

(c) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in Section 610;

(d) Fails to allow the Department access to a body art establishment as specified in Subsection 700.6;

(e) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports as specified in Subsections 709.1 and 711.1;

(f) Fails to comply with a condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(g) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter;

(h) Fails to comply with an administrative order;

(i) Makes any material false statement in the application for licensure;

(j) Falsifies or alters records required to be kept by these regulations; or

(k) Seeks to operate with conditions revealed by the application or any report, records, inspection, or other means which would warrant the Department refusal to grant a new license.

800.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 800
25-G DCMR § 801 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDITIONS WARRANTING REMEDIES

800.1 The Department may seek an administrative or judicial remedy to achieve compliance with the provisions of these regulations if an operator, person operating a body art establishment, or employee:

(a) Fails to have a valid license as specified in Section 600;

(b) Fails to pay the required fee as specified in Subsection 604.1(d);

(c) Violates any term or condition of a license as specified in Section 610;

(d) Fails to allow the Department access to a body art establishment as specified in Subsection 700.6;

(e) Fails to comply with directives of the Department including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports as specified in Subsections 709.1 and 711.1;

(f) Fails to comply with a condemnation order as specified in this chapter;

(g) Fails to comply with a summary suspension order by the Department as specified in this chapter;

(h) Fails to comply with an administrative order;

(i) Makes any material false statement in the application for licensure;

(j) Falsifies or alters records required to be kept by these regulations; or

(k) Seeks to operate with conditions revealed by the application or any report, records, inspection, or other means which would warrant the Department refusal to grant a new license.

800.2 The Department may simultaneously use one or more of the remedies listed in this chapter to address a violation of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 800
25-G DCMR § 802 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, JUSTIFYING CONDITIONS AND REMOVAL OF Equipment, Water, Inks, Pigments, Reusable instruments, Disposable items, Jewelry, SHARPS, Marking Instruments and StencilS, and Furnishings

802.1 A duly authorized agent of the Department may condemn and forbid the sale of, or cause to be removed and destroyed, any equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings found in a body art establishment which does not comply with these regulations, or that is being used in violation of these regulations, or that because of dirt, filth, extraneous matter, corrosion, open seams, or chipped or cracked surfaces is unfit for use.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 802
25-G DCMR § 803 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, CONTENTS

803.1 The condemnation order shall:

(a) State that the equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings subject to the order may not be used, sold, moved from the body art establishment, or destroyed without a written release of the order from the Department;

(b) State the specific reasons for placing the equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings under the condemnation order with reference to the applicable provisions of these regulations and the hazard or adverse effect created by the observed condition;

(c) Completely identify the equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings subject to the condemnation order by the common name, the label or manufacturer's information, description of the item, the quantity, the Department's tag or identification information, and location;

(d) State that the operator may request an informal conference in accordance with Subsection 806.2. A request for an informal conference does not stay the Department's imposition of the condemnation order;

(e) State that the Department may order the destruction, replacement or removal of equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings if a timely request for a hearing is not received; and

(f) Provide the name and address of the Department representative to whom a request for a hearing may be made.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 803
25-G DCMR § 804 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, OFFICIAL TAGGING OR MARKING OF Equipment, Water, Inks, Pigments, Reusable instruments, Disposable items, Jewelry, SHARPS, Marking Instruments and StencilS, and Furnishings

804.1 The Department shall place a tag, label, or other appropriate marking to indicate the condemnation of equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings that do not meet the requirements of these regulations.

804.2 The tag or other method used to identify the equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings that are the subject of a condemnation order shall include a summary of the provisions specified in Section 803 and shall be signed and dated by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 804
25-G DCMR § 805 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, REMOVING THE OFFICIAL TAG OR MARKING

805.1 No person shall remove the tag, label, or other appropriate marking except under the direction of the Department as specified in Subsection 805.2.

805.2 The Department shall issue a notice of release from a condemnation order and shall remove condemnation tags, labels, or other appropriate markings from body art equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings if:

(a) The condemnation order is vacated; or

(b) The operator obtains authorization from the Department to discard equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings in a body art establishment identified in the condemnation order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 805
25-G DCMR § 806 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONDEMNATION ORDER, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

806.1 The Department may issue a condemnation order to an operator, or to a person who owns or controls the equipment, water, inks, pigments, reusable instruments, disposable items, jewelry, sharps, marking instruments and stencils, and furnishings as specified in Section 802, without prior warning, or informal conference on the condemnation order.

806.2 A condemnation order shall be reviewed by a Department manager or supervisor prior to it being issued to an operator. A handwritten request or a request by email, phone, or fax may be submitted by an operator requesting an informal conference with the Department within fifteen (15) business days of receiving the condemnation order.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 806
25-G DCMR § 807 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, CONDITIONS WARRANTING ACTION

807.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license to operate a body art establishment if it is denied access to the body art establishment to conduct an inspection, or determines through an inspection, or examination of operators, employees, records, or other means as specified in the regulations, that an imminent health hazard exists.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 807
25-G DCMR § 808 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ CONTENTS OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION NOTICE

808.1 A summary suspension notice shall state:

(a) That the license of a body art establishment is immediately suspended and that all operations shall immediately cease;

(b) The reasons for summary suspension with reference to the provisions of these regulations that are in violation;

(c) The name and address of the Department representative to whom a written request for reinspection may be made and who may certify that reasons for the suspension are eliminated; and

(d) That the operator may request an informal conference in accordance with Subsection 809.2. A request for an informal conference does not stay the Department's imposition of the summary suspension.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 808
25-G DCMR § 809 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, WARNING OR INFORMAL CONFERENCE NOT REQUIRED

809.1 The Department may summarily suspend a license as specified in Section 807 by providing written notice as specified in Section 808 of the summary suspension to the operator without prior warning or informal conference.

809.2 A Notice of Summary Suspension shall be reviewed by a Department manager or supervisor prior to being issued to an operator. A handwritten request or a request by email, phone, or fax may be submitted by an operator requesting an informal conference with the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 809
25-G DCMR § 810 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TIME FRAME FOR REINSPECTION

810.1 After receiving a handwritten request or a request by email, phone, or fax from the operator stating that the conditions cited in the summary suspension order no longer exist, the Department shall conduct a reinspection of the body art establishment for which the license was summarily suspended within three (3) business days of receiving the operator’s request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 810
25-G DCMR § 811 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ SUMMARY SUSPENSION, TERM OF SUSPENSION, REINSTATEMENT

811.1 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the notice of suspension no longer exist and the Department has confirmed, through reinspection or other appropriate means that the conditions cited in the notice of suspension have been corrected.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 811
25-G DCMR § 812 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW ─ REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF LICENSE, OR DENIAL OF APPLICATION OR RENEWAL OF LICENSE

812.1 Failure to comply with any of the provisions of these regulations shall be grounds for the revocation or suspension of any license issued to a body art establishment pursuant to the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2012 Repl.)). The Department may revoke a license of a body art establishment upon a showing of a subsequent violation when there is a history of repeated violations or where a license has been previously suspended.

812.2 Before a license is revoked or suspended, an operator shall be given an opportunity to answer and be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

812.3 Before the Department denies an application for license, or denies the renewal of a license as specified in Section 603, an applicant or licensee shall be given an opportunity to answer and to be heard on the violations before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 812

25-G9 SERVICE OF PROCESS AND INFORMAL CONFERENCE

25-G DCMR § 900 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, PROPER METHODS

900.1 A notice issued in accordance with these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) A Department representative, a law enforcement officer, or a person authorized to serve a civil process, personally services the notice to the operator, or the person operating the body art establishment without a license; or

(b) The Department sends the notice to the last known address of the operator or person operating a body art establishment without a license, in accordance with Section 205 of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05 (2016 Repl.)), or by other public means so that a written acknowledgment of receipt may be acquired.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §900
25-G DCMR § 901 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ RESTRICTION OR EXCLUSION, CONDEMNATION, OR SUMMARY SUSPENSION ORDERS

901.1 An employee restriction order, exclusion order, condemnation order, or summary suspension order shall be:

(a) Served as specified in Subsection 900.1(a); or

(b) Clearly posted by the Department at a public entrance to the body art establishment and a copy of the notice sent by first class mail to the operator or manager of a body art establishment, as appropriate.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §901
25-G DCMR § 902 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ NOTICE, EFFECTIVENESS

902.1 Service is effective at the time of the notice's receipt as specified in Subsection 901.1(a), or if service is made as specified in Subsection 901.1(b) at the time of the notice's posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §902
25-G DCMR § 903 SERVICE OF PROCESS ─ PROOF OF PROPER SERVICE

903.1 Proof of proper service may be made by certificate of service signed by the person making service or by admission of a return receipt, certificate of mailing, or a written acknowledgment signed by the operator or person operating a body art establishment without a license or an authorized agent.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §903

25-G10 ADMINISTRATIVE AND CRIMINAL SANCTIONS, AND JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-G DCMR § 1000 ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS ─ NOTICE OF INFRACTIONS

1000.1 The Department may impose civil infraction fines penalties for violations of any provision of these regulations pursuant to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, (Civil Infraction Act), effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1801, et seq. (2016 Repl.)).

1000.2 An operator who receives a Notice of Infraction as specified in Subsections 900.1 and 901.1, may pay the assessed fine or appear before the Office of Administrative Hearings as directed on the reverse side of the Notice of Infraction in accordance with the “Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure” in Section 2808, Title 1 DCMR, as amended.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §1000
25-G DCMR § 1001 CRIMINAL SANCTIONS ─ CRIMINAL FINES, IMPRISONMENT

1001.1 An operator whose body art establishment is operating in violation of Subsections 200.5, 201, 202, 311, and 314.1 of these regulations shall be subject to license suspension or revocation as specified in Section 812 and a maximum fine of two thousand, five hundred dollars ($2,500) in accordance with the Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-0193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2809.01(c)(5) (2015 Repl.)).

1001.2 Any person who violates Subsections 600.1 and 600.2 of these regulations shall, upon conviction, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and may be punished by a fine not to exceed two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), imprisonment for not more than three (3) months, or both in accordance with the Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-0193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2809.01(d)(3) (2015 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §1001
25-G DCMR § 1002 JUDICIAL REVIEW ─ APPEALS

1002.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2012 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §1002

25-G11 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

25-G DCMR § 1100 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

1100.1 The following fees are applicable to Body Art Establishments and include plan reviews, inspections, and license applications.

Description of Services: Fees:

Initial Facility License Application $ 250.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Renewal Facility License Application $ 250.00

(2-year licensing period begins

October 1st to September 30th)

Change of Ownership Fee $ 250.00

Late Fee Renewal $ 25.00

Duplicate License Fee $ 15.00

1100.2 All fees may be paid electronically or by certified check, money order, business check, or personal check made payable to the “District of Columbia Treasurer.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 12135 (September 13, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR § 1100

25-G99 DEFINITIONS

25-G DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provide otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §9900
25-G DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1 As used in this chapter, the following terms and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Aftercare Instructions – written instructions given to a customer, specific to the body art procedure received and caring for the body art and surrounding area, including information about when to seek medical treatment, if necessary.

Antiseptic solution – a liquid or semi-liquid substance that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce the number of microorganisms present on the skin and on mucosal surfaces.

Bloodborne pathogens – a microorganism present in human blood and other bodily fluids that can cause disease. Bloodborne pathogens include the hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency syndrome.

Board – the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) Board of Barber and Cosmetology.

Body art establishment – any structure or venue, whether temporary or permanent, where body art procedures are performed, including training facilities.

Body art or body art procedure – the process of physically modifying the body for cosmetic or other non-medical purposes, including tattooing, body-piercing, and fixing indelible marks or figures on the skin through scarification, branding, tongue bifurcation, and tissue removal.

Body artist – an individual licensed to perform body art procedures in accordance with the Regulation of Body Artists and Body Art Establishments Act of 2012, effective October 23, 2012 (D.C. Law 19-193; D.C. Official Code § 47-2809.01 (2015 Repl.)).

Body piercing – the perforation of any human body part followed by the insertion of an object, such as jewelry, for cosmetic or other nonmedical purposes by using any of the following instruments, methods, or processes: stud and clasp, captive ball, soft tissue, cartilage, surface, surface-to-surface, microdermal implantation or dermal anchoring, subdermal implantation, and transdermal implantation. The term “body-piercing” does not include nail piercing.

Branding – the process of applying extreme heat with a pen-like instrument or other instrument to create an image or pattern.

Cleaning area – the area in a body art establishment used in the decontamination, sterilization, sanitization or other cleaning of instruments or other equipment used body art procedures.

Cleaning products – any material used to apply cleansing agents to the skin, such as cotton balls, tissue and paper products, paper or plastic cups, towels, gauze, or sanitary coverings.

Communicable disease – a disease that can be transmitted from person to person directly or indirectly, including diseases transmitted via blood or body fluids.

Condemnation order – a written administrative notice: (1) to remove any body art equipment or supplies, or (2) to cease conducting any particular procedures because the equipment or supplies are not being used or the procedures are not being conducted in accordance with the requirements of these regulations.

Contaminated – the presence or reasonably anticipated presence of blood, infectious materials or other types of impure materials that have corrupted a surface or item through contact.

Contaminated waste – any liquid or semi-liquid blood or other potentially infectious materials; contaminated items that would release blood or other potentially infectious materials in a liquid or semi-liquid state if compressed; items that are caked with dried blood or other potentially infectious materials and are capable of releasing these materials during handling; contaminated sharps and pathological and microbiological wastes containing blood and other potentially infectious materials, as defined in 29 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1910.1030, known as “Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens”.

Customer – an individual upon whom a body art procedure is performed.

Decontamination – the use of physical or chemical means to remove, inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point where the pathogens are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.

Decontamination and sterilization area – a room, or specific section of a room, that is set apart and used only to maintain supplies, and to clean, decontaminate and sterilize jewelry and instruments.

Department – the Department of Health.

Disinfectant – an EPA registered hospital grade disinfectant which is effective against Salmonella cholerasesuis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa; or to reduce or eliminate the presence of disease-causing microorganisms, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) for use in decontaminating inanimate objects and work surfaces.

Ear piercing – the creation of an opening in an individual’s ear lobe with an ear piercing gun to insert jewelry or other decoration.

Ear piercing gun – a mechanical device that pierces an individual’s ear using a single-use stud and clasp ear piercing system.

Exposure – an event whereby the eye, mouth or other mucous membrane, non-intact skin or parenteral contact with the blood or bodily fluids of another person, or contact of an eye, mouth or other mucous membrane, non-intact skin or parenteral contact with other potentially infectious matter.

Exposure control plan – a written action plan that specifies precautionary measures taken to manage and minimize potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens in the workplace.

FDA-Approved Instruments – sharps, such as, needles, needle bars, needle tubes, hemostats, forceps, pliers, and other items that may come in contact with a customer’s body or possible exposure to bodily fluids during the body art procedures.

Germicidal soap – an agent designed for use on the skin that kills disease-causing microorganisms, including but not limited to, products containing povidone-iodine, chloroxylenol, triclosan, and chlorhexidine gluconate.

Germicidal solution – an agent that kills disease-causing microorganisms on hard surfaces; a disinfectant or sanitizer registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and/or a 1:100 dilution of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (household chlorine bleach) and water, made fresh daily, dispensed from a spray bottle, and used to decontaminate inanimate objects and surfaces.

Gloves – protective hand covers that reduce the risk of injury and exposure to bloodborne pathogens; those which are medical-grade latex, vinyl or hypoallergenic single-use disposable gloves and are labeled for surgical or examination purposes, for instrument cleaning shall be heavy-duty, multi-use and waterproof.

Ink cup – a small container for an individual portion of pigment that may be installed in a holder or palette and in which a small amount of pigment of a given color is placed.

Manager – a person licensed by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs to manage a body art establishment.

Medical-grade sharps container – a puncture-resistant, leak-proof, rigid container that can be closed for handling, storage, transportation and disposal and is labeled with the International Biohazard Symbol:

Minor – any person under the age of eighteen (18).

Mucosal surface – the moisture-secreting membrane lining of all body cavities or passages that communicates with the exterior, including but not limited to the nose, mouth, vagina, and urethra.

Multi-type establishment – an operation encompassing both body-piercing and tattooing in the same establishment and under the same management.

Operator – any person who owns, controls, or operates a body art establishment, whether or not the person actually performs body art procedures.

Permanent cosmetics – the application of pigments in human skin tissue for the purpose of permanently changing the color or other appearance of the skin, including but not limited to permanent eyeliner, eyebrow, or lip color.

Pre-sterilized instruments – instruments that are commercially sterilized and packaged by the manufacturer and bear a legible sterilization lot number and expiration date.

Procedure or procedural area – a room or designated portion of a room that is set apart and only used to perform body art.

Procedure site – an area or location on the human body selected for the placement of body art.

Sanitary – clean and free of agents of infection or disease.

Sanitization – reduction of the population of microorganisms to safe levels, as determined by the Department of Health, by a product registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) or by chemical germicides that are registered with the EPA as hospital disinfectants.

Sanitized – effective bactericidal treatment by a process that provides sufficient concentration of chemicals for enough time to reduce the bacteria count including pathogens to a safe level on instruments, equipment, and animate objects.

Scarification – placing of an indelible mark on the skin by the process of cutting or abrading the skin to bring about permanent scarring.

Sharps – any sterile or contaminated object that penetrates the skin or mucosa, including but not limited to pre-sterilized single needles, scalpel blades; and disposable, single-use razor blades; but not including disposable safety razors which have not broken the skin.

Single-use – products or items intended for one-time use that are disposed of after use on a customer.

Sterilization – process of destruction of all forms of microbial life, including spores by physical or chemical means.

Sterilizer – an autoclave that is designed and labeled by the manufacturer as a medical instrument sterilizer and is used for the destruction of microorganisms and their spores.

Tattoo – placing of pigment into the skin dermis for cosmetic or other nonmedical purposes, including the process of micropigmentation or cosmetic tattooing.

Tissue removal – placing an indelible mark or figure on the skin through removal of a portion of the dermis.

Tongue bifuraction – cutting of the human tongue from tip to part of the way toward the base, forking at the end into two or more parts.

Valid license or registration – a current license or registration issued by the Mayor that is not suspended, revoked, or expired.

Workstation – the area within a procedure area where body-artists perform body art procedures. The workstation includes but is not limited to the customer’s chair or table, counter, mayo stand, instrument tray, storage drawer, and body artist’s chair.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13496 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Body Art Establishment Regulations 25-G DCMR §9901

25-H BEDDING AND UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE

25-H1 MATTRESSES

25-H DCMR § 100 MATTRESSES

100.1 Each person, firm, or corporation in the District who manufactures, renovates, or deals in mattresses shall register with the Department the following information:

(a) The name of the person, firm, or corporation; and

(b) The location of the establishment where the mattresses are manufactured, renovated, stored, or offered for sale.

100.2 For the purposes of this section, "mattress" shall mean any quilt, comfort, pad, pillow, cushion, or bag stuffed with hair, down, feather, wool, cotton, excelsior, jute, or any other soft material; and designed for use for sleeping or for reclining purposes.

100.3 All materials used, or intended to be used, in the manufacture or renovation of mattresses, shall be kept in a clean place at all times.

100.4 Finished mattresses intended for sale, gift, or exchange shall be kept from dampness and dirt.

100.5 Each mattress, whether new or renovated, in the possession of any person in the District for sale, exchange, gift, or delivery from a sale, shall have a tag or label attached to it that is required by D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §§ 8-501 through 8-508.

100.6 The tag or label required in §112.6 shall be made of muslin, linen, or other material of like durability, and shall contain information about the material and the process used in the manufacture of the mattress as required by the Act.

100.7 The tags or labels required by D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §8-503, shall be used as follows:

(a) Four (4) white tags or labels, printed in black ink, for mattresses made of "all new material";

(b) A white tag or label printed in red ink, for mattresses that have been renovated or that have been made of "secondhand material" or "new and secondhand materials."

100.8 Before the tags or labels required in §§112.5 through 112.7 are used, a copy of the proposed tag or label shall be submitted to the Department for approval.

100.9 Applications for approval of sterilizing and disinfecting processes shall be made to the Director, and shall be accompanied with plans of the apparatus or device which set forth the processes to be used.

100.10 No method or process of sterilization or disinfection shall be used until approved by the Director.

100.11 All tags or labels required by D.C. Code, 2001 Ed.§§ 8-501 through 8-508, shall describe in plain, legible type in English, the kind of materials used in the manufacture or renovation of the mattress to which it is attached, as follows:

(a) If labeled as "felt," it shall consist wholly of felted cotton of the same grade of filling throughout;

(b) If "kapok," the filler shall be of "kapok" from the kapok tree, and shall be designated by no other name;

(c) If made from any filler of shredded wood, the mattress shall be labeled "excelsior," and shall name the kind of material used for topping;

(d) The term "combination" shall not be used unless the materials are named, and the proportion of each is given;

(e) The term "curled hair" mattress shall be held to mean a mattress filled with hair that has been curled in the rope;

(f) If "Tampico" or other fiber has been added, the label or tag shall state this fact;

(g) Mattresses made of cow or other animal hair not curled in the rope shall be sterilized, and the mattress label shall bear the words "uncurled cow hair" or "uncurled animal hair," and shall name the kind of hair the mattress does contain; and

(h) Mattresses made of any kind of filling material not mentioned in this subsection shall bear labels naming the particular kind of filler used and, where more than one (1) filler is used, the label shall state the kind of fillers and proportion of each.

100.12 No material shall be used in the manufacture or renovation of any mattress offered for sale, exchange, or gift in the District under the following conditions:

(a) When the material has been shredded from worn clothing of any kind;

(b) When the material has been used as a floor covering and then shredded;

(c) When the material comes from an animal or fowl and has not been properly approved by the Director.

(d) If the material contains any bugs, insects, or vermin of any kind; and

(e) If the material contains jute fiber shredded from burlap that is unclean or that has once been used for bailing purposes.

100.13 Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than ten dollars ($10) or more than forty-five dollars ($45) for each offense.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ D-410, D-420, D-430, D-440, and D-460 (1965).

25-H2 COMMON USE OF CERTAIN ARTICLES

25-H DCMR § 200 COMMON USE OF CERTAIN ARTICLES

200.1 No person shall provide or expose, or permit in any place under his or her control the provision or exposure, for common use or reuse, whether by purchase, rental, exchange, as a service, or by any other similar arrangement, any article that may come into intimate personal contact with its user, unless the following requirements are met:

(a) Since last used, the article shall have been thoroughly and effectively cleaned, and either disinfected or sterilized by a method approved by the Director; and

(b) The article shall be clean at the time it is presented for use.

200.2 As used in this section, the phrase "article which may come into intimate personal contact with the user" shall mean any article that in normal use may reasonably be expected to transmit disease germs, parasites, ectoparasites, or filth from one user to the next user. This phrase shall not include any article primarily intended for use, or used, manually.

200.3 Any person violating any of the provisions of this section or failing to comply with the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300).

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners' Order 67-1302 (August 22, 1967), 8 DCRR §§ 8-2:301, 8-2:302 (1965).

25-I PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES AND RODENT CONTROL REGULATIONS

25-I1 TITLE AND INTENT

25-I DCMR § 100 TITLE – PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES AND RODENT CONTROL REGULATIONS

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Article 32, Police Regulations (1955), as amended; as amended by Commissioners’ Order 56-1302 (June 28, 1956); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 100
25-I DCMR § 101 INTENT

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to protect public health and the environment by establishing standards to control, reduce, and eradicate conditions that foster rodent activity in the District of Columbia.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 101
25-I DCMR § 102 COMPLIANCE WITH DISTRICT LAWS AND REGULATIONS

102.1 The provisions in these regulations apply to public spaces and private properties, and residential and commercial activities regulated under:

(a) The Rodent Control Act of 2000, effective October 19, 2000 (D.C. Law 13-172; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-2103.01 et seq. (2013 Repl.));

(b) The Litter Control Administration Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-100; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-801 et seq. (2013 Repl.));

(c) The Preventive Health Services Amendment Act of 1985, as amended, effective November 27, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-83; D.C. Official Code § 7-131(a) (2018 Repl.)); and

(d) Chapter 27 (Refuse, Recyclables, and Returnables) of Subtitle A (Retail Food Code Regulations) of Title 25 (Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 102

25-I2 TYPES OF PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES AND VIOLATIONS, AND RAZING OF BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES

25-I DCMR § 200 PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES – ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, ORGANIC DECAY, AND ODORS

200.1 The Department of Health (Department) shall deem organic decay, nuisance odors, or any other offensive substances in the District of Columbia that is thrown, placed or allowed to remain on any street, avenue, alley, sidewalk, gutter, public space or private property, or open lot, or environmental conditions injurious to public health in accordance with the Preventive Health Services Amendment Act of 1985, effective November 27, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-83; D.C. Official Code § 7-174 (2018 Repl.)) including but not limited to:

(a) Filth;

(b) The contents of cesspools;

(c) Offal;

(d) Solid Waste;

(e) Foul water;

(f) Refuse from factories, warehouses, or commercial operations;

(g) Construction and demolition waste;

(h) Ordure;

(i) Urine; or

(j) Composting of decayed animal or vegetable matter in accordance with the Home Composting Incentives Amendment Act of 2018, effective July 17, 2018 (D.C. Law 22-146; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-1031.12(b) (2018 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Article 32, Police Regulations (1955), as amended; as amended by Commissioners’ Order 56-1302 (June 28, 1956); as amended by Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 200
25-I DCMR § 201 PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES – PRESENCE OF RODENT ACTIVITY, PRIVATE PROPERTY

201.1 Rodent activity in buildings, structures, or open spaces whether public land or private property is a health nuisance injurious to public health.

201.2 When conducting complaint-based or field inspections, the Department shall determine the existence of past or present rodent activity by observing one or more of the following occurrences:

(a) Burrows or nests;

(b) Fecal droppings;

(c) Rub marks;

(d) Gnaw marks, such as rodent gnawed food;

(e) Runways;

(f) Odors; or

(g) Live or dead rodents.

201.3 Property owners shall control, reduce, and eradicate rodent activity on their property by:

(a) Inspecting their property frequently, including along fence lines, for signs of rodent activity, as specified in Subsection 201.2;

(b) Removing dead rodents from their property to prevent the accumulation, decomposition, or attraction of pests; and

(c) Obtaining a D.C. licensed and certified pest exterminator/ contractor to treat rodent burrows found on their property pursuant to Subsection 207.4(a) of these Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 201
25-I DCMR § 202 PUBLIC Health Nuisances – Rodent Harborage Conditions, Private property

202.1 Property owners shall inspect their property for conditions that could support rodent harborage before they transfer or change the occupancy of any property in the District.

202.2 The Department shall consider one or more of the following rodent harborage conditions a nuisance injurious to public health:

(a) Grass or weed growth at eight inches (8”) or higher on public or private property, in accordance with Section 908(a) of the Rodent Control Act of 2000, effective October 19, 2000 (D.C. Law 13-172; D.C. Official Code § 8-2103.05(a) (2013 Repl.)), not including “critical areas” designated by the Department of Energy and Environment pursuant to the Fisheries and Wildlife Omnibus Amendment Act of 2016, effective May 19, 2017 (D.C. Law 21-282, § 202; D.C. Official Code § 8-1731.02 (2018 Supp.));

(b) Allowing spillage from outdoor receptacles or waste handling units such as collection vehicles to remain on the property;

(c) Accumulating trash, animal fecal matter, discarded items and furniture, boxes, tires, vehicles, or construction materials on the property;

(d) Accumulating trash, debris, discarded or unnecessary items on public property, such as tree beds, alleyways, or roadways.

(e) Accumulating trash, debris, discarded or unnecessary items on any part of private property, including porches, basement well areas, yard areas, or other exterior areas;

(f) Accumulating trash, debris, discarded or unnecessary items on any part of private property adjacent to public or private property, such as garages, driveways, or other exterior areas.

(g) Storing pet food or bird feed in containers that are not rodent-proof or leaving uneaten pet food or bird feed on the ground after feedings;

(h) Placing refuse in plastic bags outside of container to store and dispose of solid waste other than yard waste;

(i) Improperly storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease receptacles outdoors;

(j) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease outdoors in residential receptacles that are accessible to rodents and other pests;

(k) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease in outdoor receptacles that are not rodent proof, as defined in Section 9901 of these regulations, due to damaged or improper construction;

(l) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease in outdoor receptacles that are not rodent proof, as defined in Section 9901 of these regulations, due to improper maintenance;

(m) Storing food waste or grease in outdoors receptacles that are not rodent proof, with tight fitting lids, doors, or covers, as defined in Section 9901 of these regulations;

(n) Storing food waste outdoors in receptacles that are not durable, cleanable, insect and rodent proof, leak proof, and nonabsorbent, as defined in Section 9901 of these regulations;

(o) Storing food waste outdoors in unprotected plastic bags and paper bags, or baled units that contain materials with food residue;

(p) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease outdoors in waste receptacles that do not have drain plugs in place;

(q) Maintaining an insufficient number of waste receptacles to properly store the amount of debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease being generated;

(r) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease on an outdoor surface that is not constructed of nonabsorbent material such as concrete or asphalt;

(s) Storing debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease on an outdoor surface that is not smooth, durable and sloped to drain;

(t) Using an outdoor storage or enclosure area that is not constructed of durable and cleanable materials to store debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease;

(u) Using an outdoor storage or enclosure area that lacks sufficient capacity to hold debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease being stored;

(v) Using an on-site compactor that is not installed flushed with the base pad under the unit that does not provide easy access to effectively clean around the unit;

(w) Storing discarded or unnecessary items in outdoor storage or enclosure areas;

(x) Soiled waste receptacles not cleaned on a regular basis to prevent the development of buildup of waste matter or from becoming an attractant to insects and rodents; or

(y) Not using regularly scheduled pickups to remove debris, solid waste, food waste, or grease from the property at a frequency that minimizes the development of objectionable odors and other conditions that attract or harbor insects and rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 202
25-I DCMR § 203 ISSUANCE OF Notice to abate violation – private property, residential AND commercial

203.1 Property owners shall comply with all Notices to Abate Violations issued by the Department for:

(a) Environmental conditions identified in Subsection 200.1 of these regulations;

(b) Rodent Activity identified in Subsections 201.2 of these regulations; and

(c) Rodent Harborage Conditions identified in Subsection 202.2 of these regulations.

203.2 If the property owner fails or refuses to comply with Subsection 203.1, the Department shall impose special assessments, fines, and penalties as specified in Sections 304, 305, and 306 of these regulations against the property and the property owner.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 203
25-I DCMR § 204 ISSUANCE OF Notice to abate violation – environmental conditions on private property, residential AND commercial, AND TIME FRAME FOR CORRECTIVE ACTION

204.1 If the Department determines the presence of environmental conditions on private property, as specified in Subsection 200.1, the Department shall issue the property owner a Notice to Abate Violation, which shall include:

(a) A description of the environmental condition observed or reported on the property;

(b) The corrective action the property owner will be required to take for the cleanup or removal of environmental conditions identified in Subsection 204.1(a) from the premises, including proof of proper removal and disposal; and

(c) A statement notifying the property owner that special assessments, fines, and penalties as specified in Sections 304 and 306 of these regulations may be assessed against the property if all corrective actions identified in Subsection 204.1(b) are not completed within fourteen (14) days from the date on the Notice to Abate Violation.

204.2 If a property owner fails to comply with Subsections 204.1(b) and (c), the Department shall issue the property owner a Notice of Infraction as specified in Section 305 of these regulations, except for property owners identified in Section 205 of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 204
25-I DCMR § 205 ISSUANCE OF Notice to abate violation – individual homeowners AND multi-residential / apartment Buildings consisting of three (3) or fewer units, CONTENT AND Time frame for corrective action

205.1 If the Department determines the presence of rodent activity or rodent harborage conditions on private property, as specified in Subsections 200.1, 201.2 and 202.2, the Department shall issue the property owner a Notice to Abate Violation, which shall include:

(a) Information regarding where the rodent activity was observed or reported on the property;

(b) Information as to what corrective action or actions the property owner will be required to take to reduce or eliminate the rodent activity or rodent harborage conditions including proof of proper disposal; and

(c) A statement notifying the property owner that special assessments, fines, and penalties pursuant to Sections 203, 304 and 306 of these Regulations may be assessed against the property if all corrective actions identified in Subsection 205.1(b) are not completed within fourteen (14) days from the date on the Notice to Abate Violation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 205
25-I DCMR § 206 ISSUANCE OF Notice to abate violation – multi-residential / apartment Buildings consisting of FOUR (4) or more units AND commercial properties, CONTENT AND TIME FRAME for corrective action

206.1 If the Department determines that there are environmental conditions, rodent activity, or rodent harborage conditions in private commercial buildings or structures, as specified in Subsections 200.1, 201.2, and 202.2 of these regulations, the Department shall issue the property owner a Notice to Abate Violation, which:

(a) States the nature of the violation observed or reported on the property;

(b) Requires the property owner to take corrective action by:

(1) Reducing or eliminating violations identified in Subsection 206.1(a) were cleaned-up and removed, with proof of proper disposal;

(2) Sealing all visible rodent entryways with hardware cloth or other appropriate material to prevent active infestation or to prevent a re-infestation; and

(3) Ensuring that all corrective action is performed by a licensed and certified pest controller, as specified in Subsection 207.4(a); and

(c) Notifies the property owner that special assessments, fines, and penalties pursuant to Sections 203, 304 and 306 of these regulations may be assessed against the property if all corrective actions identified in Subsection 206.1(b) are not completed within fourteen (14) days from the date on the Notice to Abate Violation.

206.2 The Department shall issue a Notice of Infraction to the property owner who does not comply with Subsections 206.1(b) and (c), Section 305 of these regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 206
25-I DCMR § 207 ISSUANCE OF Notice TO INSPECT BEFORE RAZING OF BUILDINGS AND OTHER STRUCTURES

207.1 The Director of the Department and the Director of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) are authorized to make, or cause to be made, inspections of existing buildings and structures to determine the prevalence of rodents or rodent harborage conditions for the protection of public health under the Preventive Health Services Amendment Act of 1985, effective November 27, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-83; DC Official Code §§ 7-131(a)) and 7-138 (2018 Repl.)).

207.2 Before authorizing the demolition, move, or removal a building or structure, in whole or in part as specified in Section 7-138 of the D.C. Official Code and Subsections 207.4, 207.5, and 207.7 of these regulations, DCRA shall require property owners to submit the following documents issued by the Department of Health:

(a) An Inspection Report; and

(b) An “Approval for the Issuance of a DCRA Raze Permit”.

207.3 As part of DCRA’s Raze Application process, DCRA shall:

(a) Assign Raze Permits to the Department of Health for review and approval through the electronic plan review system which is currently “ProjectDox”;

(b) Provide property owners with written Instructions to contact the Department of Health to schedule an inspection within thirty (30) days of filing an “Application for Raze Permit” with DCRA;

(c) After the property owner contacts the Department of Health to schedule an inspection, the Department shall issue the property owner a “Notice to Inspect” within two (2) weeks of the scheduled inspection; and

(d) An “Approval for the Issuance of a DCRA Raze Permit” shall be issued by the Department of Health to the property owner as specified in Subsection 207.7.

207.4 If during an inspection, the Department of Health observes evidence of rodent activity or rodent harborage conditions, the Department shall require the property owner to:

(a) Provide the Department with a copy of a professional service contract and service schedule, which documents the following information:

(1) The Name and address of a D.C. licensed and certified pest exterminator/contractor the property owner has contracted with to treat the building or structure in accordance with the DCMR, Chapters 22 through 25; and

(2) The type of rodenticide to be used under the contract; and

(3) Frequency of treatment and treatment date(s), including the last date of treatment under the contract;

(b) Seal all holes and gaps in the building, or other structure, or part thereof;

(c) Remove all trash or refuse and discarded items from the premises;

(d) Cleanup and remove environmental conditions injurious to public health from the premises, and provide proof of proper removal and disposal; and

(e) Complete all corrective action required by the Department in accordance with these Regulations.

207.5 The Department shall conduct a re-inspection of the property to ensure that all corrective actions identified in the Inspection Report were completed.

207.6 The Inspection Report shall include a statement that special assessments, fines, and penalties pursuant to Sections 203, 304 and 306 of these regulations may be assessed against the property if all corrective actions identified in Subsection 207.4(e) are not completed within the timeframe identified in the Inspection Report.

207.7 If the Department verifies the property owner is in compliance with Subsection 207.4, the Department shall issue the property owner an “Approval for the Issuance of a DCRA Raze Permit” within seven (7) business days of conducting an inspection or re-inspection, which states: “Proper measures have been taken to eradicate and prevent the spread of rodents from the premises.”

207.8 The property owner shall maintain a record of all corrective actions completed as specified in Subsection 207.4, verified by the Department as specified in Subsection 207.7, for the duration of the project.

207.9 The property owner shall comply with Subsections 207.1 through 207.7 of these Regulations if the Mayor or his or her designated agent orders the demolition or removal of an insanitary or unsafe building, or part thereof, other than a fence or shed.

207.10 The Department shall issue the property owner a Notice to Abate Violation, pursuant to Section 203 of these Regulations if the property owner fails to comply with Subsections 207.4(e) and 207.6.

207.11 The Department shall issue the property owner a Notice of Infraction pursuant to Section 305 of these Regulations if the property owner fails to comply with Subsection 207.6.

207.12 The Department shall not issue an “Approval for the Issuance of a DCRA Raze Permit” if there are outstanding assessments, fines, and/or penalties against the property or the property owner pursuant to Subsection 207.6 of these Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 207

25-I3 OUTREACH ACTIVITIES, INSPECTIONS, AND ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES

25-I DCMR § 300 OUTREACH ACTIVITIES – PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SPACES

300.1 In an effort to prevent conditions on public space and private property that are injurious to public health, the Department shall:

(a) Conduct outreach and education activities targeting public and private space; and

(b) Coordinate outreach and education with other District agencies through interagency agreements targeting the elimination of rodents.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 300
25-I DCMR § 301 INSPECTIONS – AUTHORITY AND RIGHT OF ENTRY FOR PUBLIC HEALTH NUISANCES

301.1 The Department is authorized to inspect public outdoor spaces and private properties as specified in these regulations.

301.2 A property owner or his agent or representative and the lessee or occupant of any such vessel, premises, grounds, structure, or building, or part thereof, and every person having the care and management thereof shall provide a Department representative access to any building or premises during hours of operation or other reasonable times as determined by the Department, to conduct inspections identified in Sections 200, 201, and 202 of these regulations. The Department representative shall present the property owner with official credentials and state the purpose of their visit.

301.3 If the property owner or his agent or representative and the lessee or occupant of any such vessel, premises, grounds, structure, or building, or part thereof, and every person having the care and management thereof refuses to allow the Department entry during normal business hours or at other reasonable times, the Department may impose special assessments, fines, and penalties as specified in Sections 304, 305, and 306 of these regulations against the property.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 301
25-I DCMR § 302 INSPECTIONS AND Treatment of Public OUTDOOR SPACES

302.1 The Department shall inspect public outdoor spaces where rodents or rodent harborage conditions are:

(a) Observed by the Department through an inspection; or

(b) Reported to the Department by the public.

302.2 The Department shall treat the inspected areas when it observes evidence of rodent activity or harborage conditions in public outdoor spaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 302
25-I DCMR § 303 INSPECTIONS – PRIVATE OUTDOOR SPACES

303.1 The Department shall inspect private outdoor spaces for public health nuisance violations identified in Sections 200, 201, and 202 that have been:

(a) Observed by the Department through an inspection;

(b) Reported to the Department by the public; or

(c) At the public’s request.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 303
25-I DCMR § 304 Administrative REMEDIES – notices TO ABATE violations, FINES

304.1 The Department shall issue an administrative order for public health nuisance violations associated with a particular residence or commercial property pursuant to the Litter Control Administration Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-100; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-801 et seq. (2013 Repl.)) and these Regulations.

304.2 Pursuant to the Litter Control Act of 1985, as amended, and Section 306 of these Regulations, the Department shall impose special assessments, fines, and penalties against the property when public health nuisance violations are not corrected within the allotted timeframe as directed in the Notice to Abate Violation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 304
25-I DCMR § 305 Administrative REMEDIES – notices of infractions (NOIS), FINES AND PENALTIES

305.1 The Department may impose against any property owner civil infraction fines and penalties for violations of any provision of these Regulations pursuant to the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985 (Civil Infractions Act), effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1801.01 et seq. (2016 Repl.)); and the Preventive Health Services Amendment Act of 1985, as amended, effective November 27, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-83; D.C. Official Code § 7-176 (2018 Repl.)).

305.2 A property owner who receives a Notice of Infraction as specified in Subsection 400.1, may pay the assessed fine or appear before the Office of Administrative Hearings as directed on the reverse side of the Notice of Infraction in accordance with the “Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedure” in Section 2808, Title 1 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulation.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 305
25-I DCMR § 306 Administrative REMEDIES – Special ASSESSMENTS ON private property AND interest on unpaid fines

306.1 The Department shall levy special assessments against any land, and improvements on the land to correct certain health hazards that have resulted from the harborage of rodents, including cleanup, abatement, and preventive measures, if the Department determines action is necessary to protect human health and one or more of the following conditions exist:

(a) Action is required to protect public space;

(b) The Department is unable to contact the property owner or his agent or representative, or person having the care and management of the land and improvements on the land by telephone, email, or first-class or registered mail within fourteen (14) days from the date on the Notice to Abate Violation or less as determined by the Mayor to protect the public’s health; or

(c) A situation exists that requires immediate action by the Department to protect human health; or

(d) The property owner or his agent or representative, or person having the care and management of the land and improvements on the land has failed or refused to comply with the Notice to Abate Violation within fourteen (14) days from the date on the Notice to Abate Violation as specified in Section 203 of these Regulations.

306.2 The Department shall levy a special assessment against any land and the improvements on the land to which any unpaid fines or penalties have been imposed pursuant to these Regulations in accordance with Section 907(b) of the Rodent Control Act of 2000, effective October 19, 2000 (D.C. Law 13-172; D.C. Official Code § 8-2103.04(b) (2013 Repl.)).

306.3 Any special assessment levied pursuant to this chapter shall be filed with the District of Columbia’s Office of Tax and Revenue and the Office of Recorder of Deeds.

306.4 The Department shall require the payment of an interest charge to be assessed against the total fine, penalty, and charge for abatement services performed by the Department that have not been satisfied, in full, within thirty (30) days of the date that final notice, which requests payment, is mailed to the property owner. The rate of interest authorized by this section shall not exceed one and one half percent) (1½%) per month or part of a month that accrues thirty (30) days from the date of the final notice pursuant to the Litter Control Administration Act of 1985.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 306

25-I4 SERVICE OF PROCESS, CRIMINAL SANCTIONS, AND JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-I DCMR § 400 service of process, notices, proper methods

400.1 A Notice of Infraction (NOI) or Order issued in accordance with the Rodent Control Act of 2000, effective October 19, 2000, (D.C. Law 13-172; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-2101.01 et seq. (2013 Repl.)) and these regulations shall be deemed properly served if it is served by one of the following methods pursuant to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05(a) (2016 Repl.)):

(a) A Department representative, a law enforcement officer, or a person authorized to serve the Notice of Infraction or Order by a civil process, or personal service of the notice to the property owner, person of suitable age and discretion residing at the property or employed therein, or to a registered agent;

(b) The Department electronically serves the Notice of Infraction or Order to the property owner;

(c) The Department mails the Notice of Infraction or Order to the property owner’s last known home or business address;

(d) The Department mails the Notice of Infraction or Order by postage prepaid, first class mail to the property owner’s official address of record as maintained by the Office of Tax and Revenue;

(e) The Department posts the Notice of Infraction or Order on the door of the entryway or other conspicuous place on the property pursuant to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05(b)(1) (2016 Repl.)); or

(f) The Department posts the Notice of Infraction or Order on the Department’s website pursuant to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code § 2-1802.05(b)(2) (2016 Repl.)).

400.2 A Notice to Abate Violation or Order issued in accordance with the Litter Control Administration Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-100; D.C. Official Code §§ 8-801 et seq. (2013 Repl.)) and these Regulations shall be deemed properly served when it is posted on the door of the entryway or other conspicuous place on the property.

400.3 If the property owner cannot be identified with reasonable certainty, the Department may conspicuously post the Notice to Abate Violation or Notice to Abate Order on the premises alleged to be in violation and deliver a copy of the Notice to the Director of the Office of Tax and Revenue in accordance with the Litter Control Administration Act of 1985, effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-100; D.C. Official Code § 8-803(c)(2) (2013 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 400
25-I DCMR § 401 Service of process – NOTICE, EFFECTIVENESS

401.1 Service is effective as specified in Subsection 400.1, or if service is made as specified in Subsection 400.2, at the time of posting.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 401
25-I DCMR § 402 SERVICE OF PROCESS – Proof of Proper Service

402.1 Proof of proper service may be made by:

(a) Certificate of service signed by the issuing agent;

(b) Certificate of Service by First-class United States pre-paid postage, if service is by mail; or

(c) A written acknowledgement signed by the property owner.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 402
25-I DCMR § 403 CRIMINAL SANCTIONS – CRIMINAL FINES, IMPRISONMENT

403.1 Any person who fails to comply with a Notice to Abate Violation shall be liable to arrest and upon conviction shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine for each offense not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or shall be imprisoned for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days, or both, in the discretion of the court in accordance with Section 908(c) of the Rodent Control Act of 2000, effective October 19, 2000 (D.C. Law 13-172; D.C. Official Code § 8-2103.05 (c) (2013 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 403
25-I DCMR § 404 JUDICIAL REVIEW – APPEALS

404.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Department may seek judicial review in accordance with the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective October 3, 2001, as amended (D.C. Law 14-28; D.C. Official Code § 7-731(b) (2018 Repl.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 404

25-I5 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

25-I DCMR § 500 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND SERVICES

500.1 The following fees are assessed for services provided by the Rodent and Vector Control Division, such as field inspections, complaint-based inspections:

Commercial Raze Inspections Fees:

Initial Inspection $ 250.00

Re-Inspection (as necessary) $ 250.00 (per inspection)

DC Health Raze Approval Letter $ - 0 -

Inspection and Treatment of

Outdoor Public Space $ - 0 -

500.2 All fees may be paid electronically or by certified check, money order, business check, or personal check made payable to the “District of Columbia Treasurer.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 67 DCR 4041 (April 10, 2020). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 500

25-I99 DEFINITIONS

25-I DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this Chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 9900
25-I DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1

Abate – removing rodent infestations by eliminating or rodent-proofing rodent food sources, eliminating rodent nesting areas, rodent-proofing buildings entry ways, and poisoning or trapping existing rodent populations.

Burrow – a below ground nest or above ground harborage conditions for rodents.

Construction and demolition waste – discarded building materials and rubble resulting from, remodeling, repairs, and operations on houses, commercial buildings, pavements, and other structures.

Corrective action – Department directives to property owners to cleanup and abate specific, and to take preventive measures.

Debris – any of the following:

(a) Construction or demolition waste that is not stored in a rodent proof container and not removed within fourteen (14) days or longer;

(b) Yard waste and branches that are not bundled or bagged and set out for waste collection, but not yard waste placed in a properly maintained compost pile; and

(c) Fire wood that is stored next to a building or left in loose piles on the ground, but not fire wood that is stored away from buildings and at least eighteen (18) inches above the ground or in a rodent-proof building.

Department – The District of Columbia Department of Health

Food waste – animal or vegetable waste resulting from the storage, handling, preparation, cooking, or serving of foods, but not food waste placed in a properly maintained compost pile or part of a properly managed compost pile or anaerobic digestion facility.

Foul – grossly offensive to the senses, disgustingly loathsome, noisome, a smell, or containing or characterized by an offensive or noisome matter such as air or stagnant water.

Grease – used cooking oil, vegetable oil, shortening, margarine or any other used fat or oil used for cooking, frying or baking intended for recycling or disposal.

Hardware cloth – galvanized metal cloth or netting with small diameter holes used to prevent rodents from entering buildings.

Notice of Abate Violation – an administrative order issued to correct a public health nuisance.

Occupant – the person who has the use of any building or any part thereof or who has the use or possession, actual or constructive, of the premises, as an owner or tenant. In the case of vacant buildings, or vacant portions of a commercial building or structure, or in case of occupancy in whole or in part by the owner, the owner of the building shall be deemed responsible for such building or structure.

Offal – the entrails and internal organs of an animal.

Ordure – excrement, dung; solid waste from the bowels of people or animals.

Person – any individual, firm, partnership, company, corporation, trustee, association, or any other private or public entity.

Premises – a building, together with any fences, walls, sheds, garages, or other accessory buildings appurtenant to that building, and the area of land surrounding the building and actually or by legal construction forming one enclosure in which the building is located.

Rodent-proofing – consist of but is not limited to the following:

(a) Using impervious materials such as hardware cloth or other appropriate materials to prevent the ingress of rodents into buildings from the exterior or from one building to another, and closing all openings in the exterior walls, ground or first floors, basements, roofs, and foundations to prevent gnawing that may be reached by rodents from the ground, by climbing, or by burrowing with;

(b) Using heavy gauge metal or heavy gauge plastic waste containers with tightly-fitting lids also constructed of heavy gauge metal or heavy gauge plastic and free of large gaps, cracks or holes and kept closed at all times other than when the container is being filled or emptied;

(c) If waste containers are equipped with a drain plug, the plug shall be constructed of heavy duty plastic or metal and shall be kept in the drain hole until the filled container is transported to its ultimate destination for emptying and disposal of its contents; and

(d) Areas where waste containers are stored are free of spilled waste at all times.

Rubmark – a dark, sometimes greasy mark formed from contact by the rat's body.

Runways – a narrow pathway of beaten earth and vegetation swept clear of debris by the frequent travel of a rat.

Solid waste – has the same meaning as provided in D.C. Official Code § 8-1031.01(15).

Weeds – uncultivated or wild vegetation that is greater than eight inches (8 in.) in height.

Yard waste – pruning’s, grass clippings, weeds, leaves, and general yard and garden wastes.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 66 DCR 7951 (July 5, 2019). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Regulations 25-I DCMR § 9901

25-J ANIMAL WELFARE AND FACILITY REGULATIONS

25-J1 HEALTH NUISANCES: ANIMALS

25-J DCMR § 100 HEALTH NUISANCES: ANIMALS

100.1 Keeping, herding, and feeding of hogs, in pens or otherwise, within the District shall be considered a nuisance injurious to health.

100.2 Any person creating or maintaining a nuisance as defined by §103.1 who fails, after due notice from the Mayor, to abate the nuisance, shall, upon conviction, be fined not less than five dollars ($5) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25) for each offense.

100.3 No person owning, occupying, or having use of any stable, shed, pen, stall, or other place within any of the more densely populated parts of the District, where animals of any kind are kept, shall permit the stable, shed, pen, stall, or place to become or to remain filthy or unwholesome.

100.4 No person shall use any stable, nor shall any responsible person permit any person to use any stable, within any of the more densely populated parts of the District, unless the surface of the ground beneath every stall and for a distance of four feet (4 ft.) from the rear of the stall, is covered with a water-tight floor laid with grades so that all fluids that fall upon it flow as promptly as possible into the public sewer, if a public sewer is available. If a public sewer is not available, the grades shall be laid so that the fluids flow to that portion of the premises where they will cause the least possible nuisance.

100.5 Any person using any building or portion of a building in the District as a stable for one (1) or more horses, mules, or cows, shall report that fact to the health officer in writing within five (5) days after occupying the building for that purpose; provided, that stables recorded at the health office as parts of dairy farms in the District need not be reported.

100.6 The written notice required by §103.5 shall contain the following information:

(a) The name of the person using a building as a stable;

(b) The location of the stable; and

(c) The number and the kind of the animals stabled.

100.7 Any person violating any of the provisions of §§ 103.3 through 103.6 shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than forty dollars ($40) for each offense.

100.8 Any animal that is kept or remains in any stable, shed, pen, or place within the District that is affected by glanders or any other contagious or pestilential disease shall be considered a nuisance injurious to health.

100.9 Any person keeping or maintaining a nuisance as defined in §103.8,and who fails to abate the nuisance after due notice from the Mayor, shall, upon conviction, be fined not less than five dollars ($5) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25) for each offense.

100.10 It shall be considered a nuisance injurious to health for any undressed dead animals, particularly any dead horses, mules, cows, goats, calfs, sheeps, dogs, or swine, to be or lie in the District.

100.11 Any person owning, possessing, or controlling any dead animal as provided in §103.10, or any person who places or allows the dead animal to remain in the District, who fails to give notice of the dead animal to the board of health within eight (8) hours after the death of the animal, shall, upon conviction, be fined not less than five dollars ($5) nor more than ten dollars ($10) for each offense.

100.12 Unmuzzled dogs going upon any street, avenue, or other place between May 15th and October 15th in any year, mad dogs, and dogs bitten by hydrophobic dogs shall be considered nuisances injurious to health.

100.13 Any person owning or keeping any dog who allows the dog to go unmuzzled upon any street, alley, or other public place between May 15th and October 15th in any year; or who refuses to kill or have killed a dog that has gone mad or been given symptoms of hydrophobia; or who does not confine the dog when it has been exposed to a hydrophobic disease, or when it has been bitten by a hydrophobic dog or animal; shall be guilty of maintaining a nuisance.

100.14 Upon conviction of maintaining a nuisance as defined in §103.13, a person shall be fined not less than one dollar ($1) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25).

100.15 Any dog going at large between May 15th and October 15th in any year that is not properly muzzled shall be taken up by the pound master, who shall charge the dog's owner one dollar ($1) for its redemption.

100.16 Any dog that is not redeemed within twenty-four (24) hours after being taken up by the pound master may be shot by the pound master

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§17, 18A, 18B, 18G, 18I, 19, 24, and 25 (1965).

25-J2 HEALTH NUISANCES: MANURE

25-J DCMR § 200 HEALTH NUISANCES: MANURE

200.1 Each person owning or occupying any building or part of a building within any of the more densely populated parts of the District, where one (1) or more horses, mules, cows, or similar animals are kept, shall maintain in connection with the building or part a bin or pit for the reception of manure; and, pending the removal from the premises of the manure from the animal or animals, shall place the manure in the bin or pit.

200.2 No person owning or occupying any building or part of a building located within any of the more densely populated parts of the District in which any horse, mule, cow, or similar animal is kept, shall keep any manure, or permit any manure to be kept, in or upon any portion of the premises other than in a bin or pit provided for that purpose; nor shall the person allow the bin or pit to be overfilled or to be needlessly uncovered.

200.3 The bin or pit required by §104.1 shall meet the following requirements:

(a) Be located at a point as remote as practicable from any public street or avenue;

(b) Be constructed so as to exclude rain water and, in all other respects, be water-tight except as it may be connected with the public sewer or as other definite provisions may be made for cleaning and flushing from time to time;

(c) Be provided with a suitable cover; and

(d) Be constructed so as to prevent, in so far as may be practicable, the ingress and egress of flies.

200.4 No manure holding bin or pit shall be constructed so that the bottom is below the level of the surface of the surrounding earth, unless it is constructed of substantial masonry and is connected with the public sewer.

200.5 The provisions of §§ 104.1 through 104.4 shall not apply to the keeping of manure from horses when the manure is kept tightly rammed into well-covered barrels for the purpose of removal in the barrels.

200.6 No person shall permit any manure to accumulate on premises under his or her control in a manner or to an extent that causes objectionable odors upon any public highway or upon any premises owned or occupied by any person other than the person owning or occupying the premises on which the manure is located.

200.7 Every person having the use of any manure bin or pit, and every person keeping manure, in any of the more densely populated parts of the District shall cause all the manure to be removed from the premises at least two (2) times each week between June 1st and October 31st of each year, and at least one (1) time each week between November 1st of each year and May 31st of the following year.

200.8 No person who has removed manure from any bin or pit, or any other place where manure has been accumulated, shall deposit the manure in any place within any of the more densely populated parts of the District without a permit from the health officer authorizing him or her to do so, and then only in accordance with the terms of the authorizing permit.

200.9 The provisions of §104.8 shall not apply to the distribution of manure over lawns and parking when the manure has been thoroughly rotted or decomposed so that its distribution causes no offensive odors on adjacent properties or on public thoroughfares.

200.10 Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than forty dollars ($40) for each offense.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§18C - 18F, 18H - 18I (1965).

25-J3 ANIMALS, PET SHOPS, AND ANIMAL HOSPITALS

25-J DCMR § 300 PET SHOPS: GENERAL PROVISIONS

300.1 The provisions of §§ 300 through 304 of this chapter provide minimum health standards for the establishment and maintenance of commercial pet shops.

300.2 The provisions of §§ 300 through 304 of this chapter shall apply to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of commercial pet shops, and shall be supplemental to existing laws and regulations pertaining to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of pet shops and every operating unit of a pet shop, and to any laws and regulations regulating the design, construction, quality of materials, maintenance, and operation of all buildings and structures and the activities carried on in them.

300.3 In the absence of requirements in these or other laws and regulations, the management and operation of any pet shop shall be in accordance with good public health practices.

300.4 The provisions of §§ 300 through 304 of this chapter shall not be applicable to the following:

(a) Any aquarium, circus, common carrier, or exhibition;

(b) Any animal hospital licensed pursuant to this title;

(c) The keeping of animals for the purposes for which the Animal Allocation Board allots animals to those holding permits issued under authority of this title.

300.5 Each section and every part of each section of this chapter shall be independent of every other section or part, and the finding or holding of any section or part to be void or ineffective for any cause shall not be deemed to affect any other section or part.

300.6 Words used in this chapter shall have their usual meaning unless the context or a definition clearly indicates a different meaning.

300.7 Words used in the present tense include the future, words in the singular number include the plural number, and words in the plural number include the singular number.

300.8 Whenever any officer or department of the District government, other than the Mayor, is referred to in this chapter, the term shall include the authorized agent of the officer or department.

300.9 No pet shop operator shall move his or her pet shop or any part of the pet shop from the premises for which a license has been issued to any other premises without first having obtained the approval of the Director and the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

300.10 The Director and the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs shall be authorized and empowered to enter and inspect any pet shop at any reasonable hour.

300.11 Any refusal to permit the Director or the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs to enter a pet shop for an inspection shall be deemed to be just cause for the suspension, revocation, or denial of a license.

300.12 Any operator of a pet shop who fails to comply with any provision of this chapter, or who refuses, interferes with, or prevents any inspection authorized by this chapter, shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed three hundred dollars ($300) or by imprisonment not to exceed ninety (90) days.

300.13 In the event of any violation of, or failure to comply with, the provisions of this chapter, each and every day of the violation or failure shall constitute a separate offense, and the penalties prescribed in §700.12 shall be applicable to each separate offense.

300.14 The operator of a pet shop shall comply with the provisions of §710 of this chapter regarding the sale and distribution of turtles in the District.

300.15 Civil fines, penalties, and fees may be imposed as alternative sanctions of this part pursuant to titles I - III of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infraction Act of 1985. Adjudication of any infraction of this part shall be pursuant to titles I - III of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985.

History

  • AUTHORITY: Unless otherwise noted, the authority for this chapter is Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1967 §§ 401 and 402, 1 D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. at 125; the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act § 412, D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. § 1 204.04.
  • SOURCE: Commissioners' Order 67-1196 (August 8, 1967), 8 DCRR §§ 4:901 to 4:903, 4:906, 4:907, 4:910, 4:911 (1965); the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985 Technical and Clarifying Amendments Act of 1990 § 39, D.C. Law 8-237. (
25-J DCMR § 301 PET SHOPS: LICENSES

301.1 No person shall operate a pet shop within the District without first having obtained a license from the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

301.2 The issuance of any license to operate a pet shop shall be subject to the approval of the Director, in addition to any other approvals that may be required.

301.3 Application for a license to operate a pet shop shall be made in writing, and shall specify the name of the person operating the pet shop and the name and location of the pet shop.

301.4 Whenever, after inspection or investigation, the Director has reason to believe that the holder of a pet shop license has failed on a continuing basis to comply substantially with the provisions of this chapter, the Director shall give written notice of that fact to the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, and shall make recommendations with respect to the suspension or revocation, or the denial of renewal, of the license.

301.5 Whenever, after a complaint by any person specified in §6 of the Act of the Legislative Assembly approved August 23, 1871 (D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §22-1006), the Director has reason to believe that the holder of a pet shop license has failed to comply with the provisions of the Act (D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §§22-1001 to 22-1014), the Director shall take the following actions:

(a) Give written notice to the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs; and

(b) Make recommendations with respect to the suspension or revocation, or the denial of renewal, of the license.

301.6 Whenever the Director of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs proposes to deny, suspend, or revoke a pet shop license, he or she shall give written notice to the applicant or licensee which shall state what action is proposed and the basis for the proposed action.

301.7 The notice required in §701.6 shall advise the applicant or licensee of the right of appeal as provided in this chapter, and of the time within which the appeal must be filed.

301.8 The notice of right of appeal shall be served upon the applicant or licensee and shall be deemed to be properly served upon the person to whom it is directed when it or a copy is as follows:

(a) Served on the applicant or licensee personally;

(b) Left at the address stated on the application or license with a person over the age of sixteen (16) years then employed at, or a resident of, the address; or

(c) Mailed by certified mail, postage prepaid, to the address stated on the application or license, and not returned by post office authorities.

301.9 If any notice mailed as authorized by §701.8(c) is returned by post office authorities by reason of refusal of the addressee to accept delivery, it shall be deemed to have been served on the addressee by mail.

301.10 Any person to whom a notice has been served pursuant §§701.8 and 701.9 may file with the Board of Appeals and Review a written notice of appeal.

301.11 A written notice of appeal shall be filed within twenty (20) calendar days from the date the notice was served personally, or within twenty-four (24) calendar days of the date the notice was served other than personally.

301.12 The fee for a license to operate a pet shop shall be that prescribed by the District license fee schedule approved by the Mayor.

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners’ Order 67-1196 (August 8, 1967), 8 DCRR §§ 4:905 and 4:912 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 302 PET SHOP: HEALTH OF ANIMALS

302.1 Sick or diseased animals in any pet shop shall be isolated from healthy animals, given adequate treatment, and kept isolated until completely recovered, or another disposition is made.

302.2 No animal shall be offered for sale, adoption, or gift when there is a reason to suspect that the animal is sick or diseased.

302.3 No operator of a pet shop shall accept, give, sell, or permit the acceptance, gift, or sale of any animal when there is reason to suspect that the animal may be infected with, or be a carrier of, any disease transmissible to man.

302.4 Any animal infected with any disease transmissible to man shall be reported and controlled as required by Chapter 2 of this title. Animal bites received by any person shall be reported as required under that chapter.

302.5 The operator of a pet shop shall provide all animals kept in the pet shop with adequate space for exercise.

302.6 No operator of a pet shop shall permit the animals kept in the pet shop to be left without care and attention, or without an opportunity for exercise, for a period of more than fourteen (14) hours.

302.7 Wild animals, other than animals imported into the United States under the supervision of the U.S. Public Health Service, shall not be offered for sale, adoption, or as a gift, unless the animal is of at least the second generation that has been reared in captivity.

302.8 A record of each purchase, sale, or gift of an animal shall be kept on file by the operator for a minimum of one (1) year from the date of the last transaction with respect to the animal.

302.9 The record required in §302.8 shall include the following information:

(a) The date of each transaction;

(b) The name and address of the person who receives, or from whom was received, the animal; and

(c) When ascertainable, the sex and other identification data regarding the animal.

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners’ Order 67-1196 (August 8, 1967), 8 DCRR § 4:907 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 303 PET SHOPS: SANITARY REQUIREMENTS

303.1 Premises and facilities maintained as a pet shop shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition and in good repair at all times.

303.2 The floors of a pet shop shall be smooth and easily cleaned, and kept in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition.

303.3 Where flooding or steaming methods are employed for cleaning floors in a pet shop, adequate means shall be provided for the removal of waste water.

303.4 Water shall not be permitted to pond under equipment, partitions, animal enclosures, or other places in a pet shop.

303.5 At least one (1) slop sink equipped with both hot and cold running water, and having sides not less than sixteen inches by sixteen inches (16 in. x 16 in.) and a depth not less than ten inches (10 in.) shall be provided within the building in a location easily accessible to the area or areas where pets are maintained.

303.6 Walls and ceilings shall have a smooth, washable surface; shall be finished in a light color; and shall be kept in a clean, safe, and sanitary condition.

303.7 The atmosphere in all rooms where pets are housed or displayed shall be maintained free of noxious substances and objectionable odors.

303.8 The discharge of any exhaust system shall be so constructed, located, and maintained as not to create a nuisance.

303.9 All rooms shall be provided with artificial illumination reasonably and uniformly distributed so as to give illumination of an intensity of five foot (5 ft.) candles thirty inches (30 in.) above the floor level.

303.10 During cleaning operations, an illumination intensity of twenty foot (20 ft.) candles shall be provided on all working surfaces or areas being cleaned.

303.11 All pet shop premises shall be maintained vermin proof and free of vermin.

303.12 All food remnants, manure, and other organic wastes stored on the pet shop premises shall be kept in tight, covered containers.

303.13 The storage of any food remnants, manure, and other organic wastes stored on the pet shop premises shall not be permitted to create a nuisance on the premises.

303.14 All coops, cotes, cages, pens, or other enclosures where animals are kept shall meet the following requirements:

(a) Be constructed so as to be readily and thoroughly cleaned;

(b) Be of sufficient dimensions to permit the animal held in it to turn about freely, stand, sit, and lie in a natural position; and

(c) Be kept clean and sanitary.

303.15 Animal carcasses stored on the pet shop premises shall be placed in tight plastic bags, and shall be suitably refrigerated until removed from the premises.

303.16 No operator or employee of a pet shop shall permit any animal in his or her custody to commit a nuisance on public space or on property under the control of others.

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners’ Order 67-1196 (August 8, 1967), 8 DCRR §4:908 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 304 PET SHOPS: PREVENTION OF INJURY

304.1 Any animal that exhibits behavior which indicates it may do bodily harm to any person, or that is of a species of normally wild animals capable of doing bodily harm to any person, shall be securely confined to prevent any person from coming in casual contact with the animal, and shall not be permitted to run at large.

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners’ Order 67-1196 (August 8, 1967), 8 DCRR § 4:909 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 305 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 306 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 307 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 308 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 309 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 310 TURTLES: SALES

310.1 No person shall sell or offer for sale or distribution to the public, turtles or viable turtle eggs unless, prior to the transaction, proof is filed with the Director that the turtles or turtle eggs come from a lot which has been certified to be free from the bacteria of the salmonella and Arizona genera, in accordance with procedures outlined in Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

310.2 It shall be the duty and obligation of all persons selling or offering for sale or distribution turtles or viable turtle eggs at wholesale to provide the retail dealer with the certificate of proof required in § 710.1 regarding the lot of turtles which is then the subject of sale.

310.3 It shall be the duty of all wholesale and retail dealers to maintain turtle storage and display facilities free from the bacteria of the salmonella and Arizona genera.

310.4 The following warning notice shall be posted conspicuously at every display of turtles for retail sale or distribution or where the public may handle turtles, unless the requirement is waived in writing by the Director:

CAUTION: TURTLES MAY TRANSMIT BACTERIA CAUSING DISEASE IN HUMANS.

310.5 Because turtles may transmit bacteria causing disease in humans, the turtle owner shall do the following:

(a) Wash hands thoroughly after handling turtles or material in a turtle bowl;

(b) Prevent water or any other items from a turtle bowl from coming in contact with food or other areas where food is prepared; and

(c) Ensure that these precautions are followed by children or others handling turtles.

310.6 No person shall sell or offer for sale or distribution to the public turtle food unless the turtle food is free of the bacteria of the salmonella and Arizona genera.

310.7 The provisions of this section shall not apply to turtles offered for sale, or distributed for bona fide educational, zoological, medical, scientific, or exhibition purposes, other than use as pets.

History

  • SOURCE: Regulation No. 74-36 (December 13, 1974), 8 DCRR § 5:107 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 311 DISEASED TURTLES

311.1 The Director may at any time take samples of tank water or any other appropriate method of sampling of turtles offered for sale or distribution and, after testing by a method deemed by the Director to be appropriate for the determination of the presence of bacteria, order the humane destruction of any turtle, lots of turtles, or turtle eggs found to be contaminated with bacteria of salmonella and Arizona genera or found to be held in water contaminated with those bacteria.

311.2 The Director's order issued pursuant to § 311.1 shall be in writing, and shall state with particularity the facts upon which it is based, including the specification of the tests utilized.

311.3 The Director's order issued pursuant to § 311.1 shall be served upon the person in whose possession the turtles or turtle eggs are found.

311.4 Any person receiving an order for destruction shall, within ten (10) days of the date of the notice, take the following actions:

(a) Destroy and dispose of the turtles or turtle eggs in a manner satisfactory to the Director, and so notify the Director in writing:

(b) Request in writing that the Director destroy the turtles or turtle eggs; or

(c) Notify the Director in writing that he or she wishes to appeal the demand for destruction.

311.5 When the Director receives a notice of appeal as provided in §711.4(c), he or she shall provide an opportunity for a hearing, by written notice to the appellant, specifying a time and place for the hearing.

311.6 The appeal hearing shall be held within ten (10) days of the notice requesting a hearing.

311.7 The hearing on appeal shall be consistent with hearing procedures afforded under the D.C. Administrative Procedure Act.

History

  • SOURCE: Regulation No. 74-36 (December 13, 1974), 8 DCRR § 5:107, (1965).
25-J DCMR § 312 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 313 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 314 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 315 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 316 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 317 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 318 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 319 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 320 USE OF IMPOUNDED ANIMALS FOR RESEARCH

320.1 The Director of the District Pound may make available, for purposes of medical research and instruction at approved institutions, impounded animals which otherwise would be destroyed.

320.2 The use of impounded animals for research and instruction shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

320.3 As used in this chapter, "institution" shall mean any school or college of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or agriculture, medical diagnostic laboratory, hospital, or other scientific, educational, or governmental establishment located within the District which, under the faculty or other responsible officers, is engaged in the following:

(a) Investigation of or giving instruction in the structures or function of living organisms;

(b) Investigation of or giving instruction in the causes, prevention, control, or cure of disease or abnormal conditions of human beings or animals;

(c) The testing and diagnosis of laboratory specimens; or

(d) The improvement and standardization of pharmaceuticals and drugs by means of experimentation on live vertebrate animals.

320.4 In any operation likely to cause greater discomfort than that attending anesthetization, the animal shall first be rendered incapable of perceiving pain and shall be maintained in that condition until the operation is ended.

320.5 Exceptions to the provision of § 720.4 shall be made by the Director of the Institution alone, and then only when the anesthesia would defeat the purpose of the experiment.

320.6 When anesthesia would defeat the purpose of the experiment, the anesthesia shall be discontinued only so long as essential to make the necessary observations.

320.7 Where continuance of an animal's life is necessary to determine the result of an experiment, the operation shall be conducted with appropriate precautions comparable to those used with human beings; and appropriate care shall be taken to minimize discomforts during convalescence.

320.8 The Director may suspend the permit held by an institution for violations of this chapter.

320.9 A suspended permit may be reinstated after the violation is corrected, but in no case in less than seven (7) days.

320.10 Repeated violations shall be deemed cause for the permit to be revoked for a period of at least three (3) months, or until the institution shows that it will be able to comply with the provisions of this chapter.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ B-310, B-3110, B-3113.1, B-3115, B-3215 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 321 ANIMAL ALLOCATION BOARD

321.1 Pursuant to the provisions of §§320.1 and 320.2, there is established in the District an Animal Allocation Board which shall consist of the following members:

(a) One (1) representative from each institution, to be designated by the head of the institution, which has been approved by the Mayor as eligible for obtaining animals from the District Pound for purposes of medical research and instruction;

(b) One (1) representative from the Department to be designated by the Director; and

(c) Other members as the Mayor, from time to time, may appoint, including at least three (3) members from among the public at large who are interested in animal welfare.

321.2 Members of the Animal Allocation Board shall do the following:

(a) Serve without compensation;

(b) Determine their own organization; and

(c) Name their own officers.

321.3 Meetings of the Animal Allocation Board shall be held at the call of the presiding officer of the Board.

321.4 Members of the Animal Allocation Board who are appointed from the Department shall serve indefinite terms at the Director's discretion.

321.5 The members of the Animal Allocation Board who are not appointed by the Director shall serve staggered three (3) year terms.

321.6 Any person chosen to fill a vacancy on the Animal Allocation Board shall be appointed only for the unexpired portion of the term to which appointed.

321.7 Additional members of the Animal Allocation Board shall be appointed for terms not to exceed three (3) years, as specified by the Mayor at the time of appointment; Provided, that the provisions of §721.8 shall be met.

321.8 Each term specified by the Mayor shall expire on the last day of a calendar year, and the terms of the additional appointments shall be set so as to ensure that the terms of not more than approximately one-third (1/3) of the members shall expire each year.

321.9 Each member of the Animal Allocation Board shall serve until his or her successor is appointed and qualified.

321.10 The functions of the Animal Allocation Board shall be the following:

(a) To advise the Mayor in making policy determinations regarding the use of impounded animals for medical research and instruction;

(b) To assist the Director in developing standards and criteria for licensing institutions that desire to avail themselves of impounded animals for research and instruction purposes; and

(c) To establish schedules, for use by the Poundmaster, for the equitable allocation of animals among approved institutions.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ B-310, B-3111, B-3112 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 322 PERMIT FOR USE OF ANIMALS

322.1 Any institution, as defined in §799 of this chapter, that desires to obtain animals which have been lawfully impounded, shall apply to the Director for a permit.

322.2 If the Director finds that the institution applying for a permit is a fit and proper agency within the meaning of the provisions of this chapter to receive a permit, the Director shall issue a permit to the institution, subject to the Mayor's approval.

322.3 All permits issued shall expire automatically on June 30th of each year, but may be renewed by an institution upon application to the Director, subject to approval by the Mayor.

322.4 An institution that has been granted a permit becomes eligible to procure live animals as provided in this chapter, and to continue to procure them so long as the institution holds a valid permit and conforms to all the provisions imposed by this chapter and by the Director.

322.5 Failure to comply with the provisions of this chapter and of the Director shall be deemed just cause for revocation of a permit by the Mayor.

322.6 When the Director determines that the institution is a fit and proper agency within the meaning of the provisions of §720 and the standards of this section, the Director shall issue a permit to the institution, subject to the approval of the Mayor, to receive animals from the District Pound.

322.7 Only those institutions shall be approved in which the use of impounded living animals will be under the immediate supervision of persons qualified by training and experience to conduct the scientific work.

322.8 Application for approval shall be made on forms provided by the Department for that purpose.

322.9 Approval shall be granted to an institution in the name of the person responsible for the use of living, impounded animals.

322.10 The permit shall not be transferable, and shall be revoked if the individual in whose name approval has been granted ceases to be in charge.

322.11 The individual whose name appears on the certificate of approval shall be responsible for the following:

(a) The use of all living animals in experimentation;

(b) The humane treatment and care of the animals;

(c) The propriety of the procedures used;

(d) The scientific justification for the use of the animals in experiments, tests, or demonstrations;

(e) The sanitation and care of the animals in the animal quarters;

(f) For seeing that all dogs which will be kept longer than seven (7) days by the institution shall be given a bath with an appropriate cleansing agent, and examined and treated for parasites; and

(g) For seeing that certain long-haired breeds shall be clipped when caged in indoor quarters.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ B-310, B320, B-3113.2 to 3113.3, B-3210 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 323 ANIMAL QUARTERS

323.1 The animal house shall be kept in good condition, clean and sanitary, and provide proper lighting, ventilation, and heating.

323.2 The floors of the animal house shall be of waterproof cement, quarry tile, or terrazzo.

323.3 The floors shall be smooth and properly drained, so they will dry quickly.

323.4 Floors shall be cleansed daily, using a cleansing agent, by hosing or wet mopping.

323.5 Proper lighting of the animal quarters is essential, and may be furnished by natural or artificial means.

323.6 When the lighting is natural, a means shall be provided to control the amount of sunlight entering during warm seasons of the year to prevent over-heating of the animal rooms.

323.7 Proper ventilation is essential and may be provided by the following methods:

(a) A central ventilating system with a screened opening entering each room;

(b) Outside windows which may be opened; or

(c) An outside fan for each room.

323.8 When outside windows are opened, they shall be properly screened to prevent flies and other insect pests from entering.

323.9 Outside doors shall be screened.

323.10 Facilities for maintaining the proper temperature control suitable to the species of animals housed shall be installed and kept in a satisfactory operating condition.

323.11 Unless exercise interferes with the purpose of the study, each large animal shall be given an opportunity to exercise outside of the cage daily.

323.12 Outside runways are desirable when weather and climate permit.

323.13 When, in the opinion of the Director, outside runways cannot be reasonably provided, inside exercise areas may be used.

323.14 The floors of all runways shall be smooth and made waterproof by concrete or tile properly drained, and shall be kept in a clean sanitary condition.

323.15 When dogs are confined in cages, they shall be caged individually.

323.16 Animal cages shall be of a type approved by the Director, and shall be of sufficient size to permit the animal to turn about freely and to stand and lie in a natural position.

323.17 Animal cages shall be of non-rusting metal, or shall be treated to prevent rust.

323.18 Animal cages shall be constructed to facilitate cleaning, and shall be kept in good condition.

323.19 The floor of an animal cage may be of perforated metal, or of a special type of screen.

323.20 Cages shall be kept clean and, after they are vacated and before they are reoccupied, shall be thoroughly cleansed and disinfected in a manner approved by the Director.

323.21 Cages shall be spaced at least six inches (6") from the walls or partitions.

323.22 The space between the cages and the walls shall be kept clean.

323.23 Cages for dogs shall not be more than two (2) tiers high, and the lower tier shall be adequately protected from the excreta from the upper tier.

323.24 All cages and animals in the cages shall be plainly marked, showing the name of the department and the staff member who is in charge of the experiment.

323.25 Food and water dishes shall be thoroughly washed daily and, if interchanged with animals in other cages, shall be sanitized.

323.26 Unless contra-indicated by the experiments, water shall be available to the animals at all times.

323.27 The food given the animals shall be wholesome and of sufficient quantity for the type of animal and the scientific test.

323.28 When the animals are quartered in outdoor kennels, the following shall be provided:

(a) The runways shall be of concrete, properly drained, and kept in a sanitary condition;

(b) The dogs shall be provided with sufficient shelter, adequately protected against the weather; and

(c) The shelters shall be kept clean and in a sanitary condition.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ B-320, B-3211, and B-3212 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 324 RECORDS AND REPORTS

324.1 Institutions having a permit shall maintain suitable records on all allocated impounded dogs and cats.

324.2 The records required in §724.1 shall show the type of experimentation, treatment, general health, and disposition of the animal.

324.3 Adequate progress notes shall be kept up to date.

324.4 On long-term experiments, progress notes shall be made at least weekly.

324.5 Progress records shall be maintained at least ninety (90) days after disposition of the animal, and shall be available to the Director or the Director's representative.

History

  • SOURCE: 8 DCRR §§ B-320, B-3213 (1965).
25-J DCMR § 325 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 326 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 327 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 328 RESERVED
25-J DCMR § 329 FEES

329.1 The following fees shall apply to the spaying and neutering of animals:

Type of Animal

Type of Service

Fees

Small dog (under 30 lbs.)

Spay/neuter

$25.00

Medium dog (30-60 lbs.)

Spay/neuter

35.00

Large dog (over 60 lbs.)

Spay/neuter

45.00

Cat

Neuter

15.00

Cat

Spay

20.00

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 32 DCR 3021 (May 31, 1985).
25-J DCMR § 399 DEFINITIONS

399.1 When used in this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Department - the Department of Human Services of the District of Columbia.

Director - the Director of the Department of Human Services of the District of Columbia.

Mayor - the Mayor of the District of Columbia, or the Mayor's designated representative.

Veterinarian - a person currently licensed to practice veterinary medicine or any branch of medicine under the Act of February 1, 1907, as amended. (D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. §§ 3-501 to 3-517, 3-531 to 3-542)

History

  • SOURCE: Commissioners’ Order 66-1843 (December 8, 1966), 8 DCRR § 7:804 (1965).

25-K COTTAGE FOOD REGULATIONS

25-K1 REGISTRATION PROCEDURES, MENU, AND REQUIREMENTS

25-K DCMR § 100 TITLE

100.1 These provisions shall be known as the Cottage Food Regulations, hereinafter referred to as “these Regulations”.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 100
25-K DCMR § 101 INTENT AND SCOPE

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to: (1) regulate cottage food businesses operating in the District of Columbia; (2) identify food items that are approved for sale in cottage food businesses; (3) identify food items and specialized food processes that are prohibited in cottage food businesses; (4) ensure cottage food businesses comply with storage and labeling requirements; and (5) authorize the Department to conduct initial inspections of cottage food businesses before selling any food items, as well as complaint inspections.

101.2 Cottage food products shall only be sold at farmers’ markets and public events in accordance with Section 4931(3) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 effective January 25, 2014 (D.C. Law 20-63; D.C. Official Code § 7-742.01(3) (2016 Supp.)).

101.3 Pursuant to Section 4932(a) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(a) (2016 Supp.)), these regulations do not:

(a) Apply to a food establishment that is required to have a food establishment license under Department regulations; or

(b) Exempt a cottage food business from any applicable District or federal tax laws.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 101
25-K DCMR § 102 APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS

102.1 No one shall operate as a cottage food business or produce, package, store, or sell cottage food products without first obtaining a Cottage Food Business Registry Identification Number and Certificate issued by the Department.

102.2 To qualify as cottage food business, an applicant for a cottage food business shall complete a registry application on a form provided by the Department and submit the following documentation together to the Department for review and approval:

(a) A Home Occupancy Permit issued by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) (original only);

(b) For food sold by weight, proof of calibrated scales that comply with DCRA regulations;

(c) Proof of successfully passing a nationally accredited Certified Food Protection Manager Course approved by the Department;

(d) A District-issued Certified Food Protection Manager Certificate, obtained by the owner(s) of the cottage food business, which shall be valid for three years from the date of exam;

(e) A list of food products the cottage food business intends to produce, package, and sell, as specified in Subsection 103.5 of this subtitle. The Department may request a copy of recipes if deemed necessary;

(f) Packaging labels with the information specified in Section 104 of this subtitle for each food product; and

(g) A registration fee in the amount of fifty dollars ($50) for one (1) Cottage Food Business Registration Certificate that is valid for a two (2) year period.

102.3 Additional Cottage Food Business Registration Certificates are available at a cost of five dollars ($5.00) each.

102.4 In addition to Subsection 102.2, an applicant for a cottage food business attests that, by completing the registry application, he or she:

Understands that only the cottage food products listed on their registry application are authorized by the Department to be produced, packaged, stored, or sold by the cottage food business;

Expressly grants the Department of Health right of entry to the premises of the cottage food business during normal business hours or at other reasonable times, to determine compliance with these regulations or Department Directives, and to investigate consumer complaints alleging violations of these regulations, foodborne outbreaks, or other public health emergencies, including but not limited to operating in an unsanitary manner; and

(c) Understands that refusing to allow the Department of Health entry during normal business hours or at other reasonable times, or failing to comply with Orders to Cease and Desist or any Department Directive, shall result in immediate suspension or removal of the cottage food business from the Department’s Cottage Food Business Registry Identification Number.

102.5 The Department shall approve or deny a Cottage Food Registry Application within thirty (30) business days of receiving a properly completed application, as specified in Subsections 102.2 and 102.4.

102.6 If a registry application is approved, the Department shall conduct a preoperational inspection of the applicant’s premises within fourteen (14) business days of application approval.

102.7 If the applicant for the cottage food business passes the preoperational inspection, the Department shall:

(a) Assign the cottage food business an identification number which shall be valid for two (2) years from the passing date of the food safety inspection;

(b) Add the cottage food business to the Department’s Cottage Food Business

Registry; and

(c) Issue a Cottage Food Business Registration Certificate to the Owner with the following information:

(1) Registry Identification Number;

(2) The cottage food products submitted by the applicant and approved by the Department; and

(3) An expiration date.

102.8 Each cottage food business shall have an original Cottage Food Business Registration Certificate in a conspicuous location at each event.

102.9 If a registration application is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant in writing of the following:

(a) The reason(s) for the denial; and

(b) Actions, if any, the applicant can take to qualify for a registration.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 102
25-K DCMR § 103 APPROVED FOOD PRODUCT LIST

103.1 A cottage food business is authorized to produce, package, and sell certain non-potentially hazardous food products identified in Subsection 103.5 that do not support the rapid growth of bacteria that could lead to a foodborne illness when held outside of refrigerated temperatures.

103.2 The list identified in Subsection 103.5 will be maintained and updated by the Department each quarter, if necessary, through the rulemaking process. When the Department adds or deletes food products from the approved list in Subsection 103.5, the Department shall state the:

(a) Reason for the change;

(b) Authority for the change; and

(c) Nature of the change to the approved food products list in Subsection 103.5.

103.3 If an owner of a cottage food business requests to produce, package, or sell a recipe or food product that is not on the approved list of foods in Subsection 103.5, the owner of a cottage food business shall submit confirmation of the food product’s pH value and water activity from any state accredited laboratory to the Department for review.

103.4 The Department will determine if the recipe or food product is safe to produce, package, or sell as a cottage food product based on the laboratory analyses required in Subsection 103.3.

103.5 The Department approves the sale of the following non-potentially hazardous products by cottage food businesses at farmers’ markets or public events within the District of Columbia:

(a) Baked goods, without cream, custard, cheese, or meat fillings, such as breads, biscuits, churros, muffins, rolls, scones, and sweet breads;

(b) Unfilled, baked donuts;

(c) Waffle cones;

(d) Pizzelles;

(e) Roasted coffee, whole beans or ground;

(f) Cakes, including celebration cakes (birthday, anniversary, and wedding);

(g) Cereals, trail mixes, and granola;

(h) Candies, such as brittles, toffee, chocolates, cotton candy, fudge, truffles, and confections;

(i) Pastries, pies, brownies, cookies, and tortillas;

(j) Snacks such as caramel corn, chocolate-covered nonperishable foods, nuts and dried fruits, crackers, pretzels, seeds, popcorn, or popcorn balls;

(k) Fruit pies, fruit empanadas, and fruit tamales;

(l) Jams, jellies, syrups, marmalades and other preserves;

(m) Honey and honeycomb. Applicants for cottage food businesses shall comply with “Sustainable Urban Agriculture Apiculture Act of 2012”, and provide proof they are registered with the District’s Department of Energy and Environment in accordance with Subtitle B of the Act, “Promoting Urban Agriculture through Beekeeping”;

(n) Dried pasta;

(o) Dry herbs, herb blends, and seasonings blends;

(p) Dry tea blends;

(q) Dry baking mixes; and

(r) Vinegar and flavored vinegars.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 103
25-K DCMR § 104 COTTAGE FOOD PRODUCT LABELING REQUIREMENTS

104.1 A cottage food business shall label each food product in accordance with Section 4932(c)(2) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(c)(2) (2016 Supp.)), and in accordance with 21 CFR part 101 (2016), Food Labeling.

104.2 A cottage food business shall sell only approved cottage food products that are:

(a) Stored on the premises of the cottage food business; and

(b) Prepackaged with a label that contains the following information:

(1) The cottage food business identification number;

(2) The name of the cottage food product;

(3) The ingredients of the cottage food product in descending order of the amount of each ingredient by weight;

(4) The net weight or net volume of the cottage food product;

(5) Allergen information as specified by federal labeling requirements in 21 CFR part 101, Food Labeling;

(6) If any nutritional claim is made, nutritional information as specified by federal labeling requirements in 21 CFR part 101, Food Labeling and 9 CFR part 317, subpart B, Nutrition Labeling; and

(7) A statement printed in ten (10)-point or larger type letters in a color that provides a clear contrast to the background of the label that reads:

Made by a cottage food business that is not subject to the District of Columbia’s food safety regulations

104.3 A label sample is shown below.

Cottage Food Business Identification Number

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2550 Kingston Lane

York, PA 17702

Ingredients: Enriched flour (Wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine, mononitrate, riboflavin and folic acid), butter (milk, salt), chocolate chips (sugar, chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, butterfat (milk), soy lecithin, walnuts, sugar, eggs, salt, artificial vanilla extract, baking soda.

Contains: Wheat, eggs, milk, soy, walnuts

Net Wt. 3 oz.

MADE BY A COTTAGE FOOD BUSINESS THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA’S FOOD SAFETY REGULATIONS

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 104
25-K DCMR § 105 PROCESSES AND ACTIVITIES THAT ARE NOT ALLOWED

105.1 A cottage food business shall not produce, package, or sell food products which require temperature control for safety. A cottage food business shall not:

(a) Process potentially hazardous foods;

(b) Process acidified and low acid canned food;

(c) Process food using reduced oxygen packaging;

(d) Smoke or cure food;

(e) Press juices or vegetables;

(f) Pasteurize;

(g) Can any food products, including but not limited to fruits, vegetables, vegetable butters, salsas, and similar foods;

(h) Hermetically seal food in jars;

(i) Offer for sale adulterated or misbranded food;

(j) Produce food products not expressly listed in Subsection 103.5, excepted as specified in Subsections 103.3 and 103.4; or

(k) Sell the cottage food products specified in Subsection 103.5 outside of the District of Columbia.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 105
25-K DCMR § 106 FOODS THAT ARE NOT ALLOWED

106.1 A cottage food business shall not sell potentially hazardous foods as defined in Section 991 below and by the District Food Code Regulations (Title 25-A DCMR) including but not limited to the following food:

(a) Fish or shellfish products;

(b) Fresh, dried, or dehydrated meat or meat products, including jerkies;

(c) Fresh, dried, or dehydrated poultry or poultry products;

(d) Baked goods that require any type of refrigeration such as cream, custard, or meringue pies and cakes or pastries with cream cheese icings or filings;

(e) Cheese made with unpasteurized milk;

(f) Focaccia-style breads with vegetables and/or cheeses;

(g) Raw-seed sprouts, including but not limited to alfalfa sprouts or bean sprouts;

(h) Raw cookie dough;

(i) Canned pickled products such as corn relish, pickles, or sauerkraut;

(j) Milk and dairy products including hard, soft and cottage cheeses, and yogurt;

(k) Mushrooms;

(l) Cut fresh fruits and/or vegetables;

(m) Food products made from cut fresh fruits or vegetables;

(n) Food products made with cooked vegetable products;

(o) Garlic and/or vegetable in oil mixtures;

(p) Sugar-free products, such as jams, jellies, syrups, marmalades and other preserves;

(q) Pumpkin or fruit butters;

(r) Ice or ice products;

(s) Barbeque sauces, ketchups and/or mustards; or

(t) Foods not intended for human consumption such as pet foods and/or treats.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 106
25-K DCMR § 107 COTTAGE FOOD SAMPLING REQUIREMENT

107.1 All food products, including those produced and packaged by a cottage food business, are subject to collection, examination and sampling/testing of food by the Department or an authorized representative, to determine if a food product is misbranded or adulterated. The Department shall collect cottage food products without cost. A component of the food sampling conducted pursuant to this section may include the performance of sample analyses in accordance with Section 4932(d)(4) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(d)(4) (2016 Supp.)).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 107
25-K DCMR § 108 REQUIRED INSPECTIONS AND ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES

108.1 When conducting preoperational inspections, the Department shall enter the premises of an applicant requesting a cottage food business on an agreed upon scheduled date and time during normal business hours from Monday through Friday.

108.2 The Department shall also inspect the premises of a registered cottage food business in response to a foodborne illness outbreak, consumer complaint, or other public health emergency.

108.3 The Department shall inspect during normal business hours, or at other reasonable times, whenever the Department has reason to believe the cottage food business is operating in violation of these regulations or is operating in an unsanitary manner.

108.4 A Department representative shall present official credentials and request to enter a cottage food business upon the Department’s receipt of a complaint to investigate the cottage food business’ compliance with these regulations, in accordance with Sections 4932(d)(1) and (2) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(d)(1) and (2) (2016 Supp.)) and Subsection 108.3 of these regulations.

108.5 The owner of a cottage food business shall grant a Department representative who requests entry access to inspect the premises to determine the cottage food business’ compliance with these regulations, in accordance with Section 4932(d)(3)(A) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(d)(3)(A) (2016 Supp.)) and Subsection 108.3 of these regulations.

108.6 If the Department representative is unable to gain access to conduct an inspection, the Department shall leave a Notice of Attempt to Conduct an Inspection. The owner of the cottage food business shall be required to contact the Department within seventy-two (72) hours of posting of the Notice of Attempt to Conduct an Inspection.

108.7 Failure to contact the Department within the required seventy-two (72) hour period may result in the summary suspension of the Cottage Food Business Registry Identification Number.

108.8 The Department shall inspect a cottage food business operation’s to ensure that:

(a) The production, packaging, storage, or sale of cottage food products listed on the cottage food business registry application and approved by the Department are the only food products being produced, packaged, stored, or sold by the cottage food business;

(b) Authorized persons other than the owner of the cottage food business, or persons under the direct supervision of the owner, are the only individuals engaged in the processing, preparing, packaging, or handling of any cottage food products, or are the only individuals in the home kitchen during the preparation, packaging, or handling of any cottage food products;

(c) Authorized persons involved in the preparation, packaging, or handling of cottage food products:

(1) Are not working in the home kitchen when ill;

(2) Wash their hands thoroughly before any food preparation and food packaging activities; and

(3) Use single-service gloves, bakery papers, tongs, or other utensils to avoid bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.

(d) The preparation, packaging, or handling of cottage food products is not taking place in the home kitchen at the same time as any domestic activities such as family meal preparation, dishwashing, clothes washing or ironing, kitchen cleaning, or guest entertainment;

(e) Infants or small children are not in the home kitchen during the preparation, packaging, or handling of any cottage food products;

(f) Pets are excluded from the kitchen during the preparation, packaging or handling of cottage food products;

(g) Only standard, residential (non-commercial) kitchen equipment and utensils are used to produce the cottage food products;

(h) All food contact surfaces, equipment, and utensils used for the preparation, packaging, or handling of any cottage food products are smooth and easily cleanable, and are washed, rinsed, and sanitized before each use;

(i) The home kitchen is free from the presence of insects, rodents and other pests, and there are no entry points for insects, rodents and other pests in the home kitchen; and

(j) All cottage food products and equipment are properly stored.

108.9 The owner of a cottage food business shall not interfere with any inspection by a Department representative of the business, in accordance with Section 4932(d)(3)(B) of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02(d)(3)(B) (2016 Supp.)).

108.10 The Department may summarily suspend a Cottage Food Business Registry Identification Number by issuing a Summary Suspension Order if it determines following an inspection that there is a suspected foodborne outbreak or other public health emergency, including but not limited to operating in an unsanitary manner, non-compliance with an Order to Cease and Desist or a Department Directive, or non-compliance with these regulations.

108.11 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the conditions cited in the Summary Suspension Order no longer exist and abatement of the cited conditions has been confirmed by the Department through re-inspection or other means, as appropriate.

108.12 A Cottage Food Business Registry Identification Number that has been summarily suspended shall be reinstated when the Department determines that the public health hazard cited in the Summary Suspension Order no longer exists. The Department shall provide the owner of the cottage food business with a notice of reinstatement.

108.13 If the owner of a cottage food business does not comply with any provision of these regulations or refuses to comply with an Order to Cease and Desist, Summary Suspension Order, or any Department Directive, the cottage food business shall be removed from the Cottage Food Business Registry and the owner shall be required to file a new application to the Registry.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 108
25-K DCMR § 109 SAFE FOOD PRACTICES

109.1 The owner of a cottage food business should apply, at a minimum, the following safe food practices, which help to limit the potential for foodborne illnesses:

(a) Proper Handwashing

(1) Authorized persons involved with the preparation, packaging or handling of cottage food products should clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms before starting food processing, and after any activity that might contaminate their hands; and

(2) Liquid soap, paper towels, and water warm to the touch should be used for handwashing, and should be available at the handwashing sink at all times.

(b) Bare-Hand Contact with Ready-to-Eat Foods

Bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods shall be avoided. Single-service gloves, bakery paper, tongs, or other utensils should be used when handling ready-to-eat foods.

(c) Hair Restraint and Clean Outer Garments

Hair restraints and clean outer garments must be worn by all persons in the home kitchen during processing, preparation, packaging, or handling of cottage food products.

(d) Eating, Drinking, or Smoking

Owners of a cottage food business or persons under the owner’s direct supervision should not eat, drink, or smoke or engage in any smoking activity (including but not limited to any form of tobacco, any form of hookah, any form of marijuana, or use of any e-cigarette) in the home kitchen during processing, preparation, packaging, or handling of cottage food products.

(e) Preventing Contamination When Tasting

Owners of a cottage food business or persons under the owner’s direct supervision should not use a utensil more than once to taste any cottage food product.

(f) Personal Health

Owners of a cottage food business or persons under the owner’s direct supervision should not process, prepare, package or handle cottage food products if they have any of the following symptoms:

(1) Diarrhea;

(2) Vomiting;

(3) Jaundice;

(4) Sore throat with fever; or

(5) Lesion containing pus, unless protected by an impermeable cover.

(g) Unauthorized Persons

Owners of a cottage food business or persons under the owner’s direct supervision are the only persons authorized to be in the kitchen while producing, packaging or handling cottage food products.

(h) Food Contact Surfaces

The food-contact surfaces of all utensils and equipment should be clean to the sight and touch before beginning processing cottage food products, and cleaned often while in use to limit the potential for contamination of the food or the ingredients.

(i) Proper Storage of Ingredients and Finished Products

Ingredients for cottage food products and the finished food products should be stored separately from all residential foods and food supplies, and in a manner that will prevent contamination from the premises and non-authorized persons.

(j) Proper Use and Storage of Chemicals

(1) Personal care items, as defined in Section 991, should not be stored or allowed in the home kitchen unless stored in such a manner that does not allow contamination of food products or food-contact surfaces;

(2) Spray bottles containing cleaning solutions should be labeled with the name of the solution;

(3) Pest control chemicals should not be used or stored in the home kitchen, in order to prevent contamination of food products and food-contact surfaces.

(k) Pests

Pests should not be present in the home kitchen. This area should be kept clean to prevent harborage of pests, and the premises should allow for easy visual inspection of pest activity.

(l) Pets

Pets are not allowed in the home kitchen at any time during the preparation, packaging or handling of cottage food products.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 109

25-K99 DEFINITIONS

25-K DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this title shall have the meanings set forth in this chapter, unless the text or context of the particular chapter, section, subsection, or paragraph provide otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 9900
25-K DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1 As used in this chapter, the following terms and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Authorized premises of cottage food business – the portion of a domestic residence housing the home kitchen where the preparation, packaging, storage, or handling of cottage food production occurs, and that has been inspected and approved by the Department to operate as a cottage food business in compliance with these regulations.

CFBR – the Cottage Food Business Registry within the Department of Health.

Consumer – a person who is a member of the public, takes possession of food, is not functioning in the capacity of an operator of a food sales establishment or food processing plant, and does not offer the food for resale.

Cottage food business – a business that:

(a) Produces or packages cottage food products in a residential kitchen;

(b) Sells the cottage food products in accordance with Section 4932 of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013, effective January 25, 2014 (D.C. Law 20-63; D.C. Official Code §§ 7-742.01 et seq. (2016 Supp.)), and Subsection 103.5 of these regulations;

(c) Has annual revenues from the sale of cottage food products in an amount not exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000); and

(d) Has obtained a home occupancy permit from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs pursuant to Section 251 of Title 11 (Zoning Regulations of 2016), Subtitle U (Use Permissions), of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (11-U DCMR § 251).

Cottage food product – a non-potentially hazardous food, as specified in regulations adopted by the Department of Health, that is sold at a farmer’s market or public event in accordance with Section 4932 of Section 2 of the Cottage Food Amendment Act of 2013 (D.C. Official Code § 7-742.02 (2016 Supp.)) and Subsection 103.5 of these regulations.

Department – Department of Health.

Domestic residence – a single-family dwelling or an area within a rental unit where a single person or family actually resides. This term does not include any group or communal residential setting within any type of structure, or any outbuilding, shed, barn, or other similar structure.

Easily cleanable – a characteristic of a surface that:

(a) Allows effective removal of soil by normal cleaning methods;

(b) Depends upon the material, design, construction, and installation of the surface; and

(c) Varies with the likelihood of the surface’s role in introducing pathogenic or toxigenic agents or other contaminants into food based on the surface’s approved placement, purpose, and use.

Equipment – a normal household article that is used in the manufacture of cottage food products such as a freezer, grinder, hood, ice maker, mixer, oven, reach-in refrigerator, scale, sink, slicer, stove, table, temperature measuring device, or warewashing machine. This term does not include industrial or commercial grade equipment that, due to their size, cannot be effectively cleaned in residential sinks or dishwashers.

Food – a raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice, beverage, or ingredient used or intended for use or for sale in whole or in part for human consumption, or chewing gum.

Foodborne disease outbreak – the occurrence of two or more cases of a similar illness resulting from the ingestion of a common food.

Hermetically sealed container – a container that is designed and intended to be secure against the entry of microorganisms or, in the case of low acid canned foods, designed and intended to maintain the commercial sterility of its contents after processing.

Home kitchen – a kitchen in a cottage food business owner’s primary domestic residence, with a home occupancy permit from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, which contains one or more stoves or ovens designed for residential use only (such as a double oven) and does not include any type of commercial equipment.

Non-potentially hazardous foods – foods that do not require temperature control because they are incapable of supporting the rapid and progressive growth of infectious or toxigenic microorganisms.

Owner of a cottage food business – a person who produces cottage food products only in the home kitchen of that person’s primary domestic residence and only for sale directly to the consumer.

Packaged – food contained in a carton, bottled, canned, securely bagged, or securely wrapped, in a cottage food operation. This term does not include a wrapper, carry-out box, or other nondurable container used to containerize food for the purpose of food protection during service or receipt of the food by the consumer.

Personal Care Items – items or substances that may be poisonous, toxic, or a substance of contamination and are used to maintain or enhance a person’s health, hygiene, or appearance; which may include items such as medicines, first aid supplies, cosmetics, and toiletries such as toothpaste and mouthwash.

Potentially hazardous foods – foods requiring temperature control for safety because they are capable of supporting the rapid growth of pathogenic or toxigenic microorganisms, or the growth and toxin production of Clostridium botulinum.

Public event – any event open to the general public, including but not limited to farmers markets, exhibitions, fairs, festivals, entertainment, or fundraising activities.

Public market and private market – as regulated by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) Vending Regulations as codified at Title 24 (Public Space and Safety), Chapter 5 (Vendors) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (24 DCMR §§ 500 – 599).

Ready-to-eat food – food that is edible and does not require additional preparation to achieve food safety.

Reduced oxygen packaging – packaging of food using the reduction of the amount of oxygen in a package by mechanically evacuating the oxygen, displacing the oxygen with another gas or combination of gases, or otherwise controlling the oxygen content in a package to a level below that normally found in the surrounding atmosphere (twenty-one percent (21%) oxygen), or a process as specified in this definition that involves a food for which Clostridium botulinum or Listeria monocytogenes require control in the final packaged form. This term includes any of the following:

(a) Vacuum packaging, in which air is removed from a package of food and the package is hermetically sealed so that a vacuum remains inside the package, such as sous vide;

(b) Modified atmosphere packaging, in which the atmosphere of a package of food is modified so that its composition is different from air but the atmosphere may change over time due to the permeability of the packaging material or the respiration of the food. Modified atmosphere packaging includes reduction in the proportion of oxygen, total replacement of oxygen, and an increase in the proportion of other gases such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen;

(c) Controlled atmosphere packaging, in which the atmosphere of a packaged food is modified so that until the package is opened, its composition is different from air, and continuous control of that atmosphere is maintained, such as by using oxygen scavengers or a combination of total replacement of oxygen, non-respiring food, and impermeable packaging material;

(d) Cook chill packaging, in which cooked food is hot-filled into impermeable bags which have the air expelled and are then sealed or crimped closed. The bagged food is rapidly chilled and refrigerated at temperatures that inhibit the growth of psychotropic pathogens; or

(e) Sous vide packaging, in which raw or partially cooked food is placed in a hermetically sealed, impermeable bag, cooked in the bag, rapidly chilled, and refrigerated at temperatures that inhibit the growth of psychotropic pathogens.

Smoking or to smoke – pursuant to the Smoking Restriction Amendment Act of 2013, effective December 13, 2013 (D.C. Law 20-48; D.C. Official Code § 7-1702(7)) (2016 Supp.)):

(a) The act of puffing, having in one's possession, holding, or carrying a lighted or smoldering tobacco product, including through the use of smoking equipment of any kind including a pipe, or cigarette papers or tubes; or

(b) The lighting of a tobacco product, including through the use of smoking equipment of any kind including a pipe, or cigarette papers or tubes.

Special Event – as regulated by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) Vending Regulations as codified at Title 24 (Public Space and Safety), Chapter 5 (Vendors) of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (24 DCMR §§ 500 – 599).

Specialized food processes – including but are not limited to:

(a) Smoking food as a method of food preservation rather than as a method of enhancing flavor;

(b) Curing food;

(c) Using food additives or adding components such as vinegar as a method of food preservation rather than as a method of flavor enhancement, or otherwise rendering food so that is not potentially hazardous (time/temperature control for food safety);

(d) Packaging food using a reduced oxygen method, except where the growth of and toxin formation by Clostridium botulinum and the growth of Listeria monocytogenes are controlled;

(e) Operating a molluscan shellfish life-support system display tank used to store or display shellfish that are offered for human consumption;

(f) Custom processing animals that are for personal use as food and not for sale or service;

(g) Preparing food by methods not approved by the Department; and

(h) Sprouting seeds or beans.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 64 DCR 13555 (December 29, 2017). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Cottage Food Regulations 25-K DCMR § 9901

25-L MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN REGULATIONS

25-L1 APPLICATION AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

25-L DCMR § 100 TITLE – MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN REGULATIONS

100.1 The provisions in this subtitle shall be known as the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations, hereinafter referred to as “these regulations.”

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 100
25-L DCMR § 101 INTENT AND SCOPE

101.1 The purpose of these regulations is to:

(a) Regulate microenterprise home kitchen businesses operating in the District of Columbia;

(b) Identify the food items that are approved for sale by microenterprise home kitchen businesses;

(c) Identify food items and specialized food processes that are prohibited in microenterprise home kitchen businesses;

(d) Ensure microenterprise home kitchen businesses comply with packaging, storage, labeling, and sale requirements; and

(e) Authorize the Department to conduct inspections as specified in §§ 103 and 200.

101.2 Microenterprise home kitchen food products may only be sold from sidewalk vending carts with designs approved by the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), in consultation with the Department, in accordance with Section 7b(b)(1) of the Vending Regulation Act of 2009, effective July 1, 2023 (D.C. Law 25-21; D.C. Official Code § 37-131.06b(b)(1)).

101.3 Pursuant to Section 4936 of the Department of Health Functions Clarification Act of 2001, effective July 1, 2023 (D.C. Law 25-21; D.C. Official Code § 7-742.12) these regulations shall not:

(a) Apply to “food establishments” as defined in Title 25-A DCMR 9901.1; or

(b) Exempt a microenterprise home kitchen business from any applicable District or federal tax laws.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 101
25-L DCMR § 102 APPLICATION AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

102.1 To obtain a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Vending Operation Health Permit, an applicant applying for new permit or renewing an existing permit shall complete the Department’s online application and submit the following documentation for review and approval:

(a) A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Home Occupancy Permit issued by the Department of Buildings (DOB);

(b) A Vending Site Permit issued by the DLCP;

(c) For food sold by weight, proof of calibrated scales that comply with DLCP regulations;

(d) Proof that persons who supervise the home kitchen and vending operations have successfully passed a nationally accredited Certified Food Protection Manager examination recognized and approved by the Department;

(e) A Department-issued Certified Food Protection Manager Certificate obtained by the operator of the microenterprise home kitchen business, which shall be valid for three (3) years from the date of the nationally recognized exam specified in § 102.1(d);

(f) A list of food products the microenterprise home kitchen business is seeking approval to prepare, handle, package, store, or sell; provided that the Department may request a copy of recipes it deems necessary;

(g) Sample labels with the information specified in § 205 for each food product; and

(h) Written standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the home kitchen and vending operations.

102.2 Applicants for a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business shall attest that only food products listed in their microenterprise home kitchen business application and approved by the Department shall be prepared, handled, packaged, stored, or sold by the microenterprise home kitchen business.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 102
25-L DCMR § 103 APPLICATION – DEPARTMENT REVIEW

103.1 The Department shall approve or deny a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business application within thirty (30) business days after receiving a properly completed application.

103.2 If the Department approves the application, the Department shall conduct a preoperational inspection of the applicant’s home kitchen premises and vending operation within fourteen (14) business days after approval.

103.3 If an applicant passes the preoperational inspections required for new businesses or passes required compliance inspections for existing businesses for both the home kitchen and the vending operation:

(a) The Department shall:

(1) Assign the microenterprise home kitchen business a Registry Number, which shall be valid for two (2) years from the passing date of the preoperational inspection;

(2) Add the microenterprise home kitchen business to the Department’s Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit;

(3) Issue a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit to the applicant;

(4) Provide a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Vending Operation Health Inspection Report to the applicant once a year, or more frequently pursuant to complaints; and

(5) Issue a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Vending Operation Health Permit to the applicant.

103.4 New and renewal applicants shall pay the required application fee in the amount of $100.00 for the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and the Vending Operation Health Permit.

103.5 All required permits and certificates shall be available for inspection at the home kitchen and vending location upon request by the Department.

103.6 The Department shall:

(a) Maintain a copy of an applicant’s documentation and microenterprise home kitchen business’ permits on file; and

(b) Provide a copy of the documentation to the operator.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 103
25-L DCMR § 104 APPLICATION – DENIAL NOTICE

104.1 If an application for a new or renewal Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit or a new or renewal Vending Operation Health Permit is denied, the Department shall provide the applicant with written notice that includes:

(a) The specific reasons and legal authority for denying a new or renewal of a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit or a Vending Operation Health Permit;

(b) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a new permit or to renew an existing permit; and

(c) Notice of the applicant’s right to request a hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings within fifteen (15) days after receiving the Notice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 104

25-L2 REQUIRED INSPECTIONS AND OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

25-L DCMR § 200 REQUIRED INSPECTIONS – DEPARTMENT RIGHT OF ENTRY

200.1 The operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business shall grant a Department representative access to inspect a microenterprise home kitchen business during the operating hours of the microenterprise home kitchen to conduct an inspection to ensure compliance with §§ 101.2, 204, 205, 206, and 207 through 219:

(a) Scheduled preoperational inspections, including any needed follow-up preoperational inspections;

(b) Compliance inspections, with reasonable advance notice of the inspection, to determine if the microenterprise home kitchen business is complying with

these regulations; and

(c) Unannounced inspections when the Department has a valid reason to investigate conditions that may impact the public’s health, including:

(1) A consumer complaint; or

(2) A reasonable suspicion that a microenterprise home kitchen business:

(A) Poses an imminent health hazard;

(B) Is the source of adulterated food; or

(C) Is the source of an illness outbreak caused by contaminated food.

200.2 The operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business shall not interfere with any inspection conducted by a Department representative.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 200
25-L DCMR § 201 DENYING DEPARTMENT ACCESS TO INSPECT

201.1 If a Department representative cannot gain access to conduct an inspection of a microenterprise home kitchen, the Department shall leave a Notice of Attempt to Conduct an Inspection at the premises. The Notice shall require the operator of the microenterprise home kitchen business to contact the Department within three (3) business days of the posting of the Notice.

201.2 Failure to contact the Department within the required three (3) business days may result in the summary suspension of the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit.

201.3 Refusing to allow the Department entry during operating hours may result in the summary suspension or revocation of the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit.

201.4 If the Department issues a Notice of Summary Suspension of the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit or the Vending Operation Health Permit, the operator may appeal the decision by requesting a hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings within fifteen (15) days of receiving the notice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 201
25-L DCMR § 202 DEPARTMENT ISSUING INSPECTION REPORT AND OBTAINING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT

202.1 At the conclusion of an inspection, the Department shall provide a copy of its completed inspection report to the operator of the microenterprise home kitchen business. The inspection report shall document any violations the inspector observed and specify the timeframe to correct the cited violations. The inspector shall request the operator’s signature acknowledging receipt of the inspection report.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 202
25-L DCMR § 203 REFUSING TO ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT

203.1 The Department shall inform an operator who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of an inspection report that:

(a) An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the finding;

(b) Refusing to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will not affect the operator’s obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time frames specified; and

(c) A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt will be noted in the inspection report for the microenterprise home kitchen business.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 203
25-L DCMR § 204 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

204.1 The operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business shall prepare, handle, package, store, and sell food in compliance with the Department’s regulations.

204.2 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall only prepare, handle, package, store, or sell Department-approved food products.

204.3 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall obtain food from sources that comply with federal and state laws and are inspected by their respective regulatory authority that oversees their geographical areas.

204.4 A microenterprise home kitchen business that does not hold a valid Registry Health Permit or Vending Operation Health Permit from the Department to operate as a microenterprise home kitchen business shall not sell food at any vending location in the District of Columbia.

204.5 Only operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business and persons under their direct supervision may prepare, handle, package, store, or sell the business’s food products or their ingredients.

204.6 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall develop and follow written standard operating procedures (SOPs).

204.7 The SOPs shall include:

(a) Procedures and methods for how all food products will be prepared, handled, packaged, stored, and transported;

(b) Procedures, methods, and schedules for cleaning utensils and equipment;

(c) Procedures and methods for the disposal of refuse; and

(d) A plan for maintaining time/temperature control for safety food at the appropriate temperatures for each food product.

204.8 The operator shall display a printed notification at its vending site that the vending site sells products produced in a microenterprise home kitchen business and that the microenterprise home kitchen business products do not meet the same requirements of a commercial retail food establishment and are not subject to the District of Columbia’s Food Code Regulations.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 204
25-L DCMR § 205 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS – FOOD LABELING REQUIREMENTS

205.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall meet labeling requirements as specified in §§ 102.1(g), 205.2 and 205.3.

205.2 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall sell only approved microenterprise home kitchen food products that are:

(a) Stored on the premises of the microenterprise home kitchen business; and

(b) Prepackaged with a label that contains the following information:

(1) The name and address of the business;

(2) The business’s registry number;

(3) The name of the food product;

(4) The ingredients of the food product in descending order of the amount of each ingredient by weight;

(5) The net weight or net volume of the food product;

(6) Allergen information as specified by federal labeling requirements in 21 CFR part 101, Food Labeling;

(7) If any nutritional claim is made, nutritional information as specified by federal labeling requirements in 21 CFR part 101, Food Labeling and 9 CFR part 317, part A, subpart B, Nutrition Labeling; and

(8) A statement printed in ten (10)-point or larger type letters in a color that provides a clear contrast to the background of the label that reads:

MADE BY A MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN BUSINESS THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA’S FOOD CODE REGULATIONS.

205.3 A sample label is shown below.

Microenterprise Home Kitchen Registry Number: [Registry #]

ABC Home Bakers

7500 East Capitol Street, NE

Washington, DC 20000

Product: Sugar Cookies

Ingredients: Enriched flour (Wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine, mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid), butter (milk, salt), soy lecithin, sugar, eggs, salt, artificial vanilla extract, baking soda.

Contains: Wheat, eggs, milk, soy

Net Wt. 3 oz.

MADE BY A MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN FOOD BUSINESS THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA’S FOOD CODE REGULATIONS

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 205
25-L DCMR § 206 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS – PREVENTING CONTAMINATION

206.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business operator shall ensure that:

(a) The microenterprise home kitchen business is preparing, handling, packaging, or selling only those food products included in its application and approved by the Department;

(b) Only individuals authorized to prepare, handle, or package microenterprise home kitchen business food products are permitted in the kitchen facility during microenterprise home kitchen business operations;

(c) Individuals preparing, handling, or packaging microenterprise home kitchen business food products are:

(1) Prohibited from working in the kitchen facility when ill, as specified in § 214;

(2) Required to wash their hands thoroughly before any food preparation or food packaging activities; and

(3) Required to use single-service gloves, bakery papers, tongs, or other utensils to avoid bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods;

(d) Only standard, residential (non-commercial) kitchen equipment and utensils are used to prepare the microenterprise home kitchen business food products;

(e) All food contact surfaces, equipment, and utensils used for the preparation, packaging, or handling of any microenterprise home kitchen business food products are smooth and easily cleanable, in good repair, washed, rinsed, and sanitized before each use, and properly stored;

(f) Microenterprise home kitchen business food products are not prepared, handled, or packaged in the kitchen facility at the same time as any domestic activities, including family meal preparation, dishwashing, clothes washing or ironing, kitchen cleaning, or guest entertainment;

(g) The microenterprise home kitchen business operation is free from the presence of insects, rodents, and other pests and their entry points;

(h) Microenterprise home kitchen business food products are stored in authorized premises, as defined in § 9901, in the following manner:

(1) A clean and dry location;

(2) With no exposure to dust or other contaminants;

(3) At least fifteen centimeters (15 cm) or six inches (6 in.) above the floor; and

(i) Microenterprise home kitchen business food and food products are prohibited from being stored or prepared in toilet rooms, dressing rooms, under leaking water lines or under lines on which water has condensed, under open stairwells, or under other potential sources of contamination.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 206
25-L DCMR § 207 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – FOOD TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS

207.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall comply with the following food cooking temperature requirements:

(a) Raw animal foods such as eggs, fish, meat, poultry, and foods containing these raw animal foods shall be cooked to heat all parts of the food to a temperature and for a time that complies with one of the following methods based on the food that is being cooked:

(1) 145o F or above for fifteen (15) seconds – fish/meat;

(2) 155o F or above for fifteen (15) seconds – ratites/comminuted fish/comminuted meat; and

(3) 165o F or above for fifteen (15) seconds – poultry/stuffed fish/stuffed meat/stuffed pasta/stuffed poultry/stuffed ratites/stuffing containing fish, meat, poultry, or ratites; and

(b) Fruits and vegetables that are cooked for hot holding shall be cooked to a minimum temperature of 135o F.

207.2 Food shall be cooled as follows:

(a) From 135o F to 70o F within two (2) hours;

(b) From 70o F to 41o F within four (4) hours; and

(c) Within six (6) hours from 135o F to 41o F.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 207
25-L DCMR § 208 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – FOOD TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS AT VENDING SITE

208.1 When preparing, handling, or packaging food for sale at the vending site, a microenterprise home kitchen business shall:

(a) Hold hot food at 135o F or above after cooking or reheating; and

(b) Reheat all food to 165o F or above for fifteen (15) seconds before sale.

(c) Hold cold food at 41o F or below.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 208
25-L DCMR § 209 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS AT VENDING SITE

209.1 All equipment, utensils, and food contact surfaces such as counters, sinks, and work surfaces shall be constructed of safe materials, easily cleanable as defined in § 9901, and maintained in good repair.

209.2 Food temperature measuring devices shall be provided, readily accessible, and calibrated for use in ensuring the attainment and maintenance of food temperatures. A food temperature measuring device shall have a suitable probe (sensor or stem).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 209
25-L DCMR § 210 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – FOOD CONTACT SURFACES

210.1 The food-contact surfaces of all utensils and equipment shall be clean to the sight and touch before beginning to process microenterprise home kitchen business food products and cleaned often while in use to limit the potential for contamination of the food or the ingredients.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 210
25-L DCMR § 211 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – STORAGE

211.1 The microenterprise home kitchen business shall store food as follows:

(a) Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food that is prepared and held for more than twenty-four (24) hours shall be clearly marked to indicate the date or day by which the food shall be sold or discarded when held at a temperature of 41o F or less for a maximum of seven (7) days;

(b) Food ingredients and products intended for public consumption shall either be stored separately or labeled to distinguish it from food intended for private use; and

(c) A separate shelf or portion of a shelf within a refrigerator shall be an acceptable form of separate storage.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 211
25-L DCMR § 212 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – FOOD TRANSPORT

212.1 When transporting food to a vending location, a microenterprise home kitchen business shall use equipment that can maintain temperatures as specified in §§ 207 and 208.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 212
25-L DCMR § 213 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – SAFE FOOD PRACTICES

213.1 The operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business shall apply the safe food practices in this section to limit the potential for foodborne illnesses.

213.2 Only operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business or persons under the operator’s direct supervision shall be authorized to be in the kitchen while microenterprise home kitchen business food products are being prepared, packaged, or handled.

213.3 Authorized persons involved with the preparation, packaging, or handling of microenterprise home kitchen food products shall wash their hands and exposed portions of their arms before starting food preparation and food packaging activities.

213.4 Bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods is prohibited and single-service gloves, bakery paper, tongs, and other utensils shall be used when handling ready-to-eat foods.

213.5 Liquid soap, paper towels, and water warm to the touch shall be available at all sinks.

213.6 All persons must wear hair restraints and clean outer garments during the preparation, packaging, or handling of microenterprise home kitchen business food products.

213.7 Operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business or persons under the operator’s direct supervision shall not eat, drink, or engage in any smoking activity, as defined in § 9901, in the home kitchen during the processing, preparation, packaging, or handling of microenterprise home kitchen business food products.

213.8 Operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business or persons under the operator’s direct supervision shall not use a utensil more than once to taste any microenterprise home kitchen business food product or ingredient and shall not thereafter use that utensil for any food preparation until the utensil is properly washed.

213.9 Personal care items shall not be stored in the home kitchen unless stored in a manner that does not allow contamination of food products or food-contact surfaces.

213.10 Spray bottles containing cleaning solutions shall be labeled with the name of the solution.

213.11 Pest control chemicals shall not be used during any food handling activities or stored in the home kitchen to prevent contamination of food products and food-contact surfaces.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 213
25-L DCMR § 214 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – PROHIBITING FOOD HANDLING WHEN SICK

214.1 Operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business or persons under the operator’s direct supervision shall not prepare, package, or handle microenterprise home kitchen business food products if they have any of the following symptoms:

(a) Diarrhea;

(b) Vomiting;

(c) Jaundice;

(d) Sore throat with fever; or

(e) Lesion containing pus, unless protected by an impermeable cover.

214.2 Operators of a microenterprise home kitchen business or persons under the operator’s direct supervision shall not prepare, package, or handle microenterprise home kitchen business food products if a licensed health practitioner has diagnosed him or her with an illness due to:

(a) Norovirus;

(b) Hepatitis A virus;

(c) Shigella spp.;

(d) Enterohemorrhagic or Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli;

(e) Salmonella Typhi; or

(f) Salmonella (non-typhoidal)

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 214
25-L DCMR § 215 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – PROHIBITING ANIMALS AND PESTS

215.1 Animals shall be prohibited in the home kitchen during the preparation, packaging, or handling of microenterprise home kitchen business food products.

215.2 The home kitchen shall be free from pests and shall be kept clean to prevent the harborage of pests. The premises shall allow for easy visual monitoring for pest activity.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 215
25-L DCMR § 216 PREVENTING CONTAMINATION – FOOD VENDING CARTS, STORAGE AND SERVICING REQUIREMENTS

216.1 Food vending carts used by a microenterprise home kitchen business may be serviced and stored in the following locations:

(a) A vending depot that meets the requirements of 24 DCMR § 574;

(b) A shared kitchen or support facility;

(c) An existing brick-and-mortar food establishment with a fixed location, such as a delicatessen, bakery, or restaurant;

(d) A community center; and

(e) A microenterprise home kitchen business if the vending cart belongs to the microenterprise home kitchen business.

216.2 A shared kitchen or support facility, existing food establishment with a fixed location, or a community center may support the servicing and storage of food vending carts if:

(a) The food vending carts are stored in a space and manner that protects the carts from contamination;

(b) There is adequate space for the proper storage of inventory, such as food, supplies, and utensils used by the vendor;

(c) There is adequate space for the cleaning of all food vending carts serviced and stored at the facility;

(d) The vendor has access to on-site food preparation and food handling areas, if needed; and

(e) The facility will provide access to hot and cold potable water, electrical outlets, and receptacles or systems for the proper disposal of trash and food waste.

216.3 A microenterprise home kitchen business may support the service and storage of up to two (2) food vending carts if:

(a) The food vending carts are stored in a space and manner that protects the carts from contamination;

(b) The storage area is clearly designated, identified, and approved by the Department with relocation of the area prohibited without the Department’s approval; and

(c) The microenterprise home kitchen business can support the proper preparation and storage of the food being sold from the food vending cart.

216.4 An alternative service and storage facility, such as a private garage, may support the service and storage of up to four (4) food vending carts if:

(a) The vendors sell only prepackaged food or non-potentially hazardous uncut fruits and vegetables;

(b) The facility provides the vendor with access to on-site potable water;

(c) The service and storage areas are free of pests; and

(d) Food items are not prepared or stored in the facility.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 216
25-L DCMR § 217 APPROVED FOODS, SOURCES, PROCESSES, AND ACTIVITIES

217.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business may engage in the following food processes and activities:

(a) Fully cooking food, including meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables;

(b) Offering for sale whole or chopped raw fruit and vegetables that are washed;

(c) Cooking any other time/temperature control for safety food to the temperature and time required for the specific food in accordance with §§ 207 and 208; and

(d) Offering for sale bakery items for which further cooking is not required for safety.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 217
25-L DCMR § 218 UNAUTHORIZED FOODS

218.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall not sell the following time/temperature control for safety foods:

(a) Fresh, dried, or dehydrated meat or meat products, including jerkies;

(b) Fresh, dried, or dehydrated poultry or poultry products;

(c) Cheese made with unpasteurized milk;

(d) Raw-seed sprouts, including but not limited to alfalfa sprouts or bean sprouts;

(e) Raw cookie dough;

(f) Canned pickled products such as corn relish, pickles, or sauerkraut;

(g) Milk and dairy products including hard, soft, and cottage cheeses, ice cream, and yogurt;

(h) Mushrooms;

(i) Garlic or vegetable in oil mixtures;

(j) Sugar-free products, such as jams, jellies, syrups, marmalades and other preserves;

(k) Pumpkin or fruit butters;

(l) Ice or ice products;

(m) Sauces, ketchups, or mustards;

(n) Foods not intended for human consumption such as pet foods or treats;

(o) Alcohol infused food products;

(p) Foods products containing cannabis, CBD (cannabidiol), Kava, Kratom, any food not considered GRAS (generally recognized as safe), or any unapproved food additive; or

(q) Other foods the Department determines to be unsafe.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 218
25-L DCMR § 219 UNAUTHORIZED FOOD PROCESSES AND ACTIVITIES

219.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall not:

(a) Manufacture food;

(b) Process acidified and low-acid canned food;

(c) Process food using reduced oxygen packaging;

(d) Smoke or cure food;

(e) Press juices or vegetables;

(f) Pasteurize;

(g) Can any food products, including fruits, vegetables, vegetable butters, salsas, and similar foods;

(h) Hermetically seal food in jars;

(i) Offer for sale adulterated or misbranded food;

(j) Prepare food with processes that require a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) Plan pursuant to 25-A DCMR § 4202; or

(k) Prepare food by other methods that the Department prohibits.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 219

25-L3 LAWFUL OPERATIONS, RECORDS RETENTION AND NOTICES OF INFRACTION

25-L DCMR § 300 DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO OPERATE

300.1 No person shall operate, prepare, handle, package, store, or sell microenterprise home kitchen food products in the District without a valid Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit issued by the Department.

300.2 No person shall sell microenterprise home kitchen food products in the District from a food vending cart or stand without a valid Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit issued by the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 300
25-L DCMR § 301 MAINTAINING AND RENEWING PERMITS AND CERTIFICATES

301.1 The operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business shall apply for and obtain the renewal of all required approvals and permits as provided in §§ 301.2 through 301.5 to lawfully conduct business. Failing to maintain all necessary approvals may result in summary suspension, suspension, or revocation of the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit.

301.2 A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit shall remain valid for two (2) years. To maintain the validity of Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit, the operator shall contact the Department to schedule an inspection and upon passing the microenterprise home kitchen inspection, pay all applicable fees and obtain an updated permit before the existing permit expires.

301.3 A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit shall remain valid for six (6) months. To maintain the validity of this Vending Operation Health Permit, the operator shall contact the Department to schedule a health inspection, and upon passing the health inspection, to obtain an updated permit before the existing permit expires.

301.4 A Certified Food Protection Manager Certificate remains valid for three (3) years after successful completion of an accredited, Department-approved food protection manager exam. The operator shall ensure that each person who supervises the operations of the home kitchen maintains a valid Certified Food Protection Manager Certificate.

301.5 The operator shall reapply for the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit every two (2) years by submitting a new on-line application to the Department. The operator shall submit the following with the application:

(a) The existing Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit;

(b) A valid Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Vending Operation Health Inspection Report;

(c) The existing Vending Operation Health Permit; and

(d) The applicable fee.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 301
25-L DCMR § 302 MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN BUSINESS HEALTH PERMITS NOT TRANSFERABLE

302.1 A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit or Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit shall not be transferred from one person to another person, from one business to another business, or from one location to another location even if owned, leased, or operated by the same person.

302.2 An operator may request an amendment to the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit by submitting a new on-line application to the Department.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 302
25-L DCMR § 303 RECORDS RETENTION AND PUBLIC INFORMATION

303.1 The Department shall maintain a copy of all inspection reports, complaints, applications, DLCP and DOB permits, Food Protection Manager Certifications, suspensions, and other documents relating to a microenterprise home kitchen business in the office as active records for (1) year, and then as inactive records for two (2) additional years. The Department shall destroy inactive records at the end of the two (2)-year inactive period.

303.2 In the case of an audit or investigation, the Department shall keep all records until the audit or investigation has been completed.

303.3 The Department shall treat an inspection report as a public document and shall make it available for disclosure upon request pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act of 1976, effective March 29, 1977 (D.C. Law 1-96; D.C. Official Code § 2-531 et seq.).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 303
25-L DCMR § 304 REQUIRED MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN BUSINESS RECORDKEEPING

304.1 A microenterprise home kitchen business shall maintain copies of all permits, inspection reports, permits of occupancy and make them available for inspection by the Department at both the Microenterprise Home Kitchen and at the vending site location(s).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 304

25-L4 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT, SERVICE OF PROCESS, AND JUDICIAL REVIEW

25-L DCMR § 400 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT – SUMMARY SUSPENSIONS AND OTHER DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVES

400.1 The Department may immediately suspend a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit by issuing a summary suspension order if the Department determines the microenterprise home kitchen business:

(a) Is not operating in compliance with these regulations;

(b) Is operating in an unsanitary manner;

(c) Is suspected of causing a foodborne outbreak or other public health emergency; or

(d) Has failed to comply with a cease-and-desist order or other Department directive.

400.2 A summary suspension shall remain in effect until the Department confirms through re-inspection or other means, that the public health hazard cited in the summary suspension order has been corrected. The Department shall provide the operator of the microenterprise home kitchen business with a Notice of Reinstatement.

400.3 If the operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business does not comply with any provision of these regulations or refuses to comply with a cease-and-desist order, summary suspension order, or any Department directive, the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit may be revoked. The operator shall be required to file a new application with the Department to resume business.

400.4 If the Department issues a Notice of Summary Suspension or a Notice to Revoke a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit, the operator may appeal the decision by requesting a hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings within fifteen (15) days of receiving the notice.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 400
25-L DCMR § 401 ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT – NOTICES OF INFRACTIONS, CIVIL FINES AND PENALTIES

401.1 The Department may impose civil infraction fines and penalties, as alternative sanctions against a microenterprise home kitchen business operator for violations of these regulations pursuant to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C. Official Code §§ 2-1801.01 et seq.).

401.2 An operator who receives a Notice of Infraction as specified in § 401.1 may pay the assessed fines and penalties or request a hearing before the Office of Administrative Hearings in accordance with the 1 DCMR § 2808.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 401
25-L DCMR § 402 SERVICE OF PROCESS – DEPARTMENT ISSUED NOTICES OF SUMMARY SUSPENSION, NOTICES OF INFRACTION AND OTHER DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVES

402.1 A notice issued in accordance with these regulations may be served by one (1) of the following methods:

(a) A Department representative, serving the notice on the operator of the microenterprise home kitchen business; or

(b) The Department sending notice to the last known home or business address of the operator in accordance with section 205(a) of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, effective October 5, 1985 (D.C. Law 6-42; D.C Official Code § 2-1802.05(a)), or by other means that result in a written acknowledgment of receipt by the respondent or

(c) In accordance with the Office of Administrative Hearings Rules of Practice and Procedures in 1 DCMR § 2812.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 402
25-L DCMR § 403 JUDICIAL REVIEWS ─ APPEALS

403.1 Any person aggrieved by a final order or decision of the Office of Administrative Hearings may seek judicial review in accordance with section 110 of the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21, 1968 (82 Stat. 1209; D.C. Official Code § 2-1831.16).

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 403

25-L99 DEFINITIONS

25-L DCMR § 9900 GENERAL PROVISIONS

9900.1 The terms and phrases used in this subtitle shall have the meanings set forth in § 9901 unless the text or context of a particular chapter, section, or paragraph provides otherwise.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 9900
25-L DCMR § 9901 DEFINITIONS

9901.1 As used in this subtitle, the following terms and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed:

Adulterated or misbranded food – food that:

(a) Contains poisonous or unsanitary ingredients;

(b) Contains unsafe color additives;

(c) Bears or contains alcohol in excess of one-half of one percent (1/2%) by volume;

(d) Has had a valuable constituent omitted or abstracted from it in whole or in part;

(e) Has had a substance substituted for it in whole or in part or has had damage or inferiority concealed in any manner; or

(f) Has been transported under conditions that are not in compliance with these regulations.

Authorized premises– the portion of a domestic residence housing the home kitchen where the preparation, packaging, storage, or handling of microenterprise home kitchen business food products occurs, and that has been inspected and approved by the Department to operate as a microenterprise home kitchen business.

Consumer – a person who is a member of the public, takes possession of food and is not functioning in the capacity of an operator of a microenterprise home kitchen business.

Department - Department of Health.

Domestic residence – a single-family dwelling or a unit within a building where a single person or family resides. This term does not include any group or communal residential setting within any type of structure or any outbuilding, shed, barn, or other similar structure.

Easily cleanable – a characteristic of a food-contact surface that under normal use is safe, durable, corrosion-resistant, and nonabsorbent, sufficient in weight and thickness to withstand repeated washing, finished to have a smooth surface, resistant to pitting, chipping, scratching, scoring, distortion, and

decomposition and that allows effective removal of soil by normal cleaning methods.

Equipment – a non-commercial grade household article such as a freezer, grinder, hood, ice maker, mixer, oven, reach-in refrigerator, scale, sink, slicer, stove, table, temperature measuring device, or dishwashing machine.

Food – a raw, cooked, or processed edible substance, ice, beverage, or ingredient used or intended for use in whole or in part for human consumption, or chewing gum.

Foodborne disease outbreak – the occurrence of two (2) or more cases of a similar illness resulting from the ingestion of a common food.

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Plan – a written document that delineates the formal procedures for following the Hazard Analysis

Critical Control Point principles developed by the National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods.

Microenterprise home kitchen business – a business that operates out of a non-commercial kitchen located in a private home, that is operated by a resident of the home, and where ready-to-eat food is handled, stored, or prepared to be offered for sale through an associated vending facility. A microenterprise home kitchen business is not a catering business, cottage food business, bed and breakfast, residence-based group home facility, or food truck.

Microenterprise Home Kitchen Business Registry Health Permit – a legal document issued by the Department to an operator for the purpose of authorizing the operation of a microenterprise home kitchen business.

Microenterprise Home Kitchen Vending Operation Health Permit – a legal document issued by the Department to an operator for the purpose of authorizing the vending operation of a microenterprise home kitchen business.

Operator – an individual who resides in a private home and who manages or controls the microenterprise home kitchen business.

Packaged – any individual package that prohibits/prevents outside contamination and does not require additional food handling once packaged at the microenterprise home kitchen through the point of sale at the vending location.

Personal care items – any non-food related items that may be used to maintain or enhance a person’s health, hygiene, or appearance, which may include items such as medicines, first aid supplies, cosmetics, and toiletries such as toothpaste and mouthwash.

Time/temperature control for safety food – foods requiring temperature control for safety because they can support the rapid growth of pathogenic or toxigenic microorganisms, or the growth and toxin production of clostridium botulinum.

Ready-to-eat food:

(a) Fully cooked food, including meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables;

(b) Raw fruit and vegetables that are washed and offered for sale whole or chopped;

(c) Any other time/temperature control for safety food that is cooked to the temperature and time required for the specific food in accordance with Department’s Food Code Regulations and this subtitle; or

(d) A bakery item for which further cooking is not required for food safety.

Reasonable advance notice – with respect to an inspection, five (5) business days prior to date of the inspection.

Smoking – the inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying of a lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, pipe, electronic smoking device, or any other tobacco or plant product intended for human consumption through inhalation, in any manner or in any form.

History

  • SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 72 DCR 011556 (October 17, 2025). District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Food Operations and Community Hygiene Facilities: Microenterprise Home Kitchen Regulations 25-L DCMR § 9901

Continue sua pesquisa no ChatGPT ou Claude

Conecte o Omnilex para pesquisar o corpus jurídico pelo seu assistente de IA.