Food sampling and inspections
We regularly inspect all the district's food businesses, taking
samples for examination, and investigating complaints relating to
food and food businesses.
How often routine inspections happen depends on the potential risk
posed by the type of business and its previous record. Some
premises may be inspected every six months, others much less
often.
Standards in food premises are dictated by the Food Safety Act 1990
and the various regulations made under the Act. For more
information about the Act, visit the Food
Standards Agency (external link) website.
What you can expect if we carry out an inspection at your
business
- Inspectors will make sure they visit you during your opening
hours - they don't have to make an appointment and may not give you
advance notice
- They might take samples and photographs, and inspect
records
- They will provide advice on good practice during the
inspection
- We will write to you within 5 working days to confirm the
findings of the inspection, including legal requirements, advice on
good practice and recommendations
- We will give you the opportunity to comment on how we provide
our service
Who to contact
If you would like further advice, please contact the Commercial
Safety Team:
> Online:
Food Safety online form
> Tel: 01695
585242
> Write to: Community Services, West Lancashire District
Council, Westec House, Derby Street, Ormskirk L39 2DQ
Related information
> The Food Safety team
> Food
complaints