Health Inspection Standards in New Mexico

1. What are the key regulations governing health inspections in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, health inspections are primarily governed by the New Mexico Food Service and Food Processing Regulations under the New Mexico Administrative Code Title 7, Chapter 6. These regulations outline the requirements and standards that food establishments must adhere to in order to ensure the safety and cleanliness of their operations. Key aspects covered in these regulations include:

1. Food handling and storage practices: Regulations specify proper procedures for receiving, storing, preparing, and serving food to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.

2. Sanitation requirements: Health inspections in New Mexico focus on the cleanliness of food establishments, including proper maintenance of equipment, facilities, and utensils to prevent the spread of illness-causing pathogens.

3. Employee hygiene: Regulations mandate that food service workers follow strict personal hygiene practices, such as proper handwashing, to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.

4. Pest control: Health inspections in New Mexico require food establishments to implement effective pest control measures to prevent infestations that could compromise food safety.

5. Temperature control: Regulations specify the safe temperatures at which food should be stored, cooked, and served to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

By enforcing these regulations, health inspectors in New Mexico work to protect public health by ensuring that food establishments maintain a hygienic environment and follow safe food handling practices.

2. How frequently are health inspections conducted in various types of establishments in the state?

Health inspections in various types of establishments in the state are conducted at different frequencies based on the level of risk involved in the operation. Here are examples of common establishments and their inspection frequencies:

1. Restaurants: Restaurants are typically inspected at least once or twice a year, although higher-risk establishments may receive more frequent inspections.

2. Food trucks: Food trucks are often inspected more frequently than brick-and-mortar restaurants due to their mobility and varied locations. Inspections can occur multiple times per year.

3. Grocery stores: Grocery stores generally receive annual inspections, but might face additional inspections if there are complaints or concerns reported.

4. Schools and daycare facilities: These establishments are inspected more regularly, often multiple times per year, to ensure the safety of children and compliance with health regulations.

5. Hospitals and healthcare facilities: Healthcare facilities are subject to rigorous inspection standards due to the vulnerable populations they serve. They are typically inspected multiple times a year.

Overall, the frequency of health inspections varies based on the type of establishment and associated risk factors. It is essential for these inspections to be conducted regularly to ensure the health and safety of customers, patients, students, and the general public.

3. What are the specific criteria that health inspectors look for during an inspection?

Health inspectors look for a variety of specific criteria during an inspection to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Some key areas that inspectors typically focus on include:

1. Food Safety: Inspectors check for proper food handling, storage, and preparation practices to prevent contamination and foodborne illness. They also look for sanitation practices, cleanliness of food preparation areas, and proper labeling of food items.

2. Hygiene and Personal Practices: Inspectors pay attention to the hygiene practices of food handlers, including handwashing procedures, use of gloves, and overall cleanliness. They also assess the condition of facilities such as restrooms and handwashing stations.

3. Temperature Control: Inspectors monitor the temperature of food storage units, refrigeration equipment, and cooking appliances to ensure that food is being kept at safe temperatures to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Pest Control: Inspectors look for signs of pests or infestations in the food establishment and check for proper pest control measures to prevent contamination of food products.

5. General Cleanliness: Overall cleanliness of the establishment is crucial, including the floors, walls, ceilings, and equipment. Inspectors assess the maintenance and cleanliness of kitchen equipment, utensils, and food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.

6. Compliance with Regulations: Inspectors verify that the establishment is following local health codes and regulations related to food safety, sanitation, and hygiene practices.

By thoroughly assessing these specific criteria, health inspectors can help ensure that food establishments maintain a safe and sanitary environment for both staff and customers.

4. How are food handling and safety practices assessed during a health inspection?

During a health inspection, food handling and safety practices are assessed through a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. Inspectors typically look at the overall cleanliness and sanitation of the food establishment, including the kitchen, food storage areas, and equipment. They also observe how food is handled, stored, prepared, and served to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Additionally, inspectors check for proper handwashing procedures, employee hygiene practices, and the use of gloves and other protective gear when handling food. Temperature control of food items is also closely monitored to prevent bacterial growth and contamination. Overall, the goal is to assess if the food establishment is following best practices to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of consumers. Inspectors may provide recommendations or enforcement actions depending on their findings.

5. What are the requirements for proper sanitation and hygiene in food establishments?

Proper sanitation and hygiene in food establishments are crucial in ensuring the safety of the food being served to customers. The requirements for maintaining high standards of sanitation and hygiene include:

1. Regular handwashing: All food handlers must wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food, after using the restroom, and after handling any potentially contaminated materials.

2. Clean food preparation surfaces: All surfaces where food is prepared or served should be cleaned and sanitized regularly to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Safe food storage: Food should be stored at the correct temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Foods should also be stored separately to avoid cross-contamination.

4. Regular pest control: Food establishments should have measures in place to prevent pests such as rodents and insects from entering the premises and contaminating food.

5. Proper waste disposal: All food establishments should have proper waste disposal systems in place to ensure that waste is removed regularly and stored away from food preparation areas.

By following these requirements for sanitation and hygiene, food establishments can maintain a safe and clean environment for both customers and employees.

6. How are temperature control measures monitored and enforced during food inspections?

Temperature control measures are a critical aspect of food safety during inspections. In order to monitor and enforce these measures effectively, health inspectors typically follow these procedures:

1. Monitoring thermometer calibration: Inspectors ensure that food establishments use calibrated thermometers to accurately measure the temperatures of refrigeration units, hot holding equipment, and food items.

2. Regular temperature checks: Inspectors may require food establishments to regularly record temperature checks of their equipment and food items to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

3. Enforcement of temperature standards: If the temperatures are found to be outside the safe range, inspectors may issue citations, fines, or even close the establishment until the issue is resolved.

4. Training and education: Health inspectors may also provide education and training to food handlers on proper temperature control practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Overall, monitoring and enforcing temperature control measures during food inspections is crucial to ensuring the safety of consumers and preventing foodborne illnesses.

7. What are the standards for pest control and prevention in food establishments?

Pest control and prevention are crucial aspects of maintaining proper hygiene and safety in food establishments. The standards for pest control and prevention in food establishments typically include the following guidelines:

1. Regular Inspection: Food establishments should conduct routine inspections of their premises to identify any signs of pests such as rodents, insects, or birds. These inspections should be carried out by trained personnel or professional pest control services.

2. Seal Entry Points: Food establishments should ensure that all possible entry points for pests, such as gaps in walls or doors, are properly sealed to prevent infestations.

3. Proper Waste Management: Garbage and food waste should be disposed of in sealed containers and removed from the premises regularly to avoid attracting pests.

4. Cleanliness: Maintaining a high level of cleanliness in the kitchen and storage areas is essential for pest prevention. Food debris should be promptly cleaned up, and surfaces should be sanitized regularly.

5. Pest Control Measures: Food establishments should have a pest control plan in place, which may include the use of insecticides, traps, or baits. These measures should be implemented following the guidelines provided by regulatory authorities.

6. Employee Training: Staff members should be trained on how to identify signs of pest infestations and how to report them promptly to management.

7. Documentation: Food establishments should keep records of pest control activities, including inspections, treatments, and any corrective actions taken.

By following these standards for pest control and prevention, food establishments can minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the safety of their customers. Regular monitoring and proactive measures are key to maintaining a pest-free environment in food establishments.

8. How are food storage practices and labeling requirements evaluated during inspections?

During health inspections, food storage practices and labeling requirements are evaluated through a series of methods to ensure food safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

1. Storage Practices: Inspectors will assess how food is stored to prevent cross-contamination, spoilage, and foodborne illnesses. This includes checking the organization of the storage area, temperature control of refrigerators and freezers, proper storing of raw and cooked foods separately, and adequate labeling of food items.

2. Labeling Requirements: Inspectors will review food labels to ensure that they include crucial information such as the product name, ingredients, allergen information, expiration date, and storage instructions. Labels must be clear, accurate, and legible to prevent confusion and protect consumers with food allergies.

3. Documentation: Inspectors may also ask for records related to food storage and labeling, such as temperature logs, inventory lists, and labeling procedures. Proper documentation helps demonstrate that the establishment is following best practices and complying with regulations.

4. Staff Training: Inspectors may inquire about staff training related to food storage practices and labeling requirements. Proper training ensures that employees are aware of the importance of safe food handling, storage, and accurate labeling.

Overall, a thorough evaluation of food storage practices and labeling requirements during inspections helps ensure that establishments maintain high standards of food safety and compliance with regulations to protect public health.

9. What are the protocols for handling and storing potentially hazardous foods?

Handling and storing potentially hazardous foods requires strict adherence to protocols to ensure food safety and prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are essential guidelines:

1. Temperature Control: Potentially hazardous foods must be kept at specific temperatures to prevent bacterial growth. Perishable foods should be stored below 40°F (4°C) or above 140°F (60°C).
2. Separate Storage: Store raw foods, especially meats and poultry, separately from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Proper Packaging: Potentially hazardous foods should be securely wrapped, covered, or stored in sealed containers to prevent contamination.
4. FIFO (First In, First Out) Method: Ensure proper stock rotation by using the FIFO method to use older stock first and prevent spoilage.
5. Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in storage areas to prevent the growth of bacteria and pests that could contaminate food.
6. Hygiene Practices: Handlers should wash hands regularly, wear gloves, and use utensils to minimize the risk of contamination.
7. Monitoring: Regularly check temperatures of storage units and keep records to ensure food safety compliance.

By following these protocols diligently, food establishments can minimize the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks and maintain high standards of food safety.

10. What are the guidelines for proper cleaning and sanitation of food preparation areas?

Proper cleaning and sanitation of food preparation areas are crucial to ensure food safety and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. The following are guidelines to follow:

1. Regular Cleaning: Food preparation areas should be cleaned regularly, ideally after each use. Surfaces should be wiped down with soapy water and sanitized with a food-safe disinfectant.

2. Separation of Cleaning Tools: Different cleaning tools, such as sponges, cloths, and brushes, should be used for specific tasks to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Proper Storage: Cleaning tools should be stored in a clean and dry area to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

4. Cleaning Schedule: Establish a cleaning schedule that includes daily, weekly, and monthly tasks to ensure all areas are thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis.

5. Sanitizing Solutions: Use approved sanitizing solutions or bleach solutions to disinfect food preparation surfaces effectively.

6. Rinsing Surfaces: After cleaning and sanitizing, rinse surfaces thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining residues.

7. Air Drying: Allow surfaces to air dry completely before using them again to prevent contamination.

8. Focus on High-touch Areas: Pay particular attention to high-touch areas such as handles, knobs, and countertops, as these areas are prone to bacterial growth.

9. Train Staff: Proper training should be provided to all staff members on the importance of cleaning and sanitation procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

10. Monitor and Audit: Regularly monitor and audit cleaning practices to identify any areas that may need improvement and ensure compliance with health inspection standards.

11. How are employee hygiene practices monitored and enforced during inspections?

During health inspections, employee hygiene practices are typically monitored and enforced through several methods:

1. Observation: Health inspectors will observe employees to ensure they are following proper hygiene practices such as handwashing, wearing clean uniforms, and maintaining personal cleanliness.

2. Document Review: Inspectors may review records documenting employee training on hygiene practices to ensure that all staff members are adequately trained.

3. Interviews: Inspectors may conduct interviews with employees to assess their knowledge of and compliance with hygiene practices.

4. Corrective Actions: If any issues are identified during the inspection, inspectors may issue corrective actions that require the establishment to address employee hygiene deficiencies.

5. Follow-up Inspections: Inspectors may conduct follow-up inspections to ensure that any previously identified hygiene issues have been resolved and that employees are maintaining proper hygiene practices on an ongoing basis.

Overall, monitoring and enforcing employee hygiene practices during inspections is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the health and safety of both customers and employees.

12. What are the regulations regarding the use of chemicals and cleaning agents in food establishments?

In food establishments, the use of chemicals and cleaning agents is strictly regulated to ensure food safety and compliance with health inspection standards. Here are some key regulations regarding the use of chemicals and cleaning agents:

1. Chemical Approval: Food establishments are required to use only approved chemicals and cleaning agents that are safe for use in food preparation areas.

2. Proper Labeling: All chemicals and cleaning agents must be properly labeled with detailed instructions for safe handling and usage.

3. Storage: Chemicals must be stored in designated areas away from food and food preparation areas to prevent contamination.

4. Dilution: Chemicals must be diluted according to manufacturer instructions to ensure proper effectiveness without posing a risk to food safety.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employees handling chemicals must wear appropriate PPE such as gloves, goggles, and aprons to protect themselves from exposure.

6. Training: All staff members should be trained on the safe handling and use of chemicals to prevent accidents and ensure proper sanitation practices.

7. Disposal: Proper disposal methods for used chemicals and cleaning agents must be followed to prevent environmental contamination.

8. Inspections: Health inspectors may conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with regulations regarding the use of chemicals and cleaning agents.

By adhering to these regulations, food establishments can maintain a safe and clean environment for food preparation, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses and ensuring compliance with health inspection standards.

13. How are water quality and plumbing systems assessed in food establishments?

Water quality and plumbing systems play a critical role in ensuring the safety and integrity of food establishments. When conducting health inspections in these establishments, water quality and plumbing systems are assessed through a thorough evaluation process. Here are the steps typically involved:

1. Water Sources: Inspectors first verify the sources of water used in the establishment, such as municipal water supply or private wells. They check if the water source is approved for commercial use and meets regulatory standards for cleanliness and safety.

2. Water Testing: Inspectors may conduct water quality tests to assess parameters such as pH levels, chlorine levels, and the presence of contaminants like bacteria or heavy metals. Regular testing is crucial to ensure that the water used in food preparation and cleaning meets safety standards.

3. Plumbing Systems: Inspectors examine the plumbing systems in the establishment to ensure they are properly installed, well-maintained, and in compliance with health codes. They check for leaks, proper drainage, backflow prevention devices, and adequate water pressure.

4. Cross-Contamination Risks: Inspectors also look for potential risks of cross-contamination between water sources and food or food contact surfaces. Proper separation of water lines from sewage lines and adequate handwashing facilities are essential to prevent contamination.

5. Temperature Control: Inspectors assess whether the water temperature in the establishment is adequate for different purposes, such as handwashing, dishwashing, and food preparation. Proper temperature control is crucial to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Overall, the assessment of water quality and plumbing systems in food establishments is a key aspect of health inspections to ensure the safety and well-being of customers and staff. Inspectors work diligently to identify any issues or deficiencies and provide recommendations for corrective actions to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.

14. What are the requirements for proper waste disposal and recycling in food establishments?

Proper waste disposal and recycling are essential practices in food establishments to maintain hygiene, prevent pollution, and comply with health regulations. Here are some key requirements for waste disposal and recycling in food establishments:

1. Separate waste streams: Food establishments should separate different types of waste, such as organic food waste, recyclables like paper and glass, and non-recyclable waste.

2. Provide clearly labeled bins: Proper labeling for waste and recycling bins helps staff and customers easily identify where to dispose of their waste correctly.

3. Ensure proper storage: Waste should be stored in leak-proof containers with tight lids to prevent odors, pests, and spillage.

4. Establish regular pickups: Scheduled waste pickups by authorized waste management services ensure that waste is removed promptly and disposed of properly.

5. Comply with local regulations: Food establishments must adhere to municipal or state waste disposal and recycling regulations, including proper sorting and disposal methods.

6. Train staff: All employees should be trained on the correct procedures for waste disposal and recycling to maintain a clean and safe environment.

7. Monitor waste generation: Regular monitoring of waste production can help identify opportunities for waste reduction and recycling improvement.

8. Consider composting: Food establishments can implement composting programs to recycle organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, reducing the overall waste footprint.

9. Partner with recycling vendors: Establish partnerships with recycling vendors to ensure that recyclable materials are collected, processed, and recycled effectively.

10. Promote sustainable practices: Encourage customers and staff to participate in waste reduction and recycling efforts through educational materials and initiatives.

By following these requirements for proper waste disposal and recycling, food establishments can contribute to environmental sustainability and maintain a high standard of cleanliness and compliance with health inspection standards.

15. How are ventilation and air quality standards maintained in food service facilities?

1. Ventilation and air quality standards in food service facilities are crucial to ensure the health and safety of both employees and customers. There are specific guidelines and regulations that need to be followed to maintain proper ventilation and air quality in these establishments.

2. Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of heat, smoke, steam, odors, and airborne contaminants in commercial kitchens. It helps to ensure that cooking fumes and particles are effectively removed from the cooking area, reducing the risk of fire hazards and improving indoor air quality.

3. Food service facilities are required to have proper ventilation systems in place that meet the standards set by local health departments and regulatory agencies. This may include the installation of commercial exhaust hoods, fans, ductwork, and adequate make-up air systems to provide proper airflow and remove grease, smoke, and other cooking byproducts from the kitchen environment.

4. Regular maintenance and cleaning of ventilation systems are essential to ensure they operate efficiently and effectively. This includes cleaning grease traps, changing filters, inspecting ductwork for blockages or leaks, and ensuring that exhaust hoods are working properly to remove contaminants from the air.

5. Monitoring indoor air quality is also important in food service facilities to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for employees and customers. This may involve regular air quality testing for pollutants such as carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

In conclusion, maintaining ventilation and air quality standards in food service facilities requires a combination of proper equipment, regular maintenance, and monitoring to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all individuals within the establishment. Compliance with these standards is essential to prevent health risks, promote employee well-being, and uphold the reputation of the establishment.

16. What are the protocols for preventing cross-contamination of food items during preparation and storage?

Preventing cross-contamination of food items is crucial to ensure food safety and prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are some essential protocols to follow:

1. Separate Cutting Boards and Utensils: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats, poultry, seafood, and fresh produce to prevent cross-contamination between these different food items.

2. Proper Hand Washing: Proper hand washing is essential before and after handling raw food items to prevent the transfer of bacteria and pathogens.

3. Storage Separation: Store raw meat, poultry, and seafood on separate shelves or in separate containers in the refrigerator to prevent their juices from dripping onto other foods.

4. Proper Storage Temperature: Store food items at the appropriate temperatures to slow down the growth of bacteria. Refrigerate perishable items promptly and ensure that your refrigerator is at 40°F (4°C) or below.

5. Use Color-Coded Containers: Employ color-coded containers and labels to easily distinguish between different types of food items and prevent cross-contamination during storage.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing: Regularly clean and sanitize cutting boards, countertops, and utensils to eliminate any bacteria or pathogens that can cause cross-contamination.

7. Cook Food Thoroughly: Properly cook food items to their recommended internal temperatures to kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.

By implementing these protocols diligently, you can effectively prevent cross-contamination of food items during preparation and storage, safeguarding the health of consumers and upholding food safety standards.

17. How are food establishment operators trained and educated on health and safety standards?

Food establishment operators go through a rigorous training and education process to ensure they are well-versed in health and safety standards. Here is how they are trained and educated:

1. Initial training: When operators first join a food establishment, they typically undergo comprehensive training on health and safety protocols. This initial training covers topics such as proper food handling, sanitation practices, hygiene standards, and cross-contamination prevention.

2. Certification programs: Many food establishment operators are required to complete certification programs to demonstrate their knowledge of health and safety standards. These programs often include coursework, exams, and hands-on training to ensure operators understand and can apply the necessary practices.

3. Ongoing education: Health inspection standards and regulations are constantly evolving, so food establishment operators must participate in ongoing education to stay up to date on the latest guidelines. This may involve attending seminars, workshops, or online training programs to enhance their knowledge and skills.

4. In-house training: Food establishments also conduct in-house training sessions to reinforce health and safety standards among their staff. These sessions may cover specific protocols unique to the establishment and serve as a refresher on key practices.

By implementing these training and education measures, food establishment operators can ensure they are well-informed and equipped to maintain a safe and healthy environment for both employees and customers.

18. What are the consequences of failing a health inspection in New Mexico?

Failing a health inspection in New Mexico can have serious consequences for a business operating in the food industry. Some of the potential ramifications include:

1. Closure: One immediate consequence of failing a health inspection is the possibility of the business being shut down until the necessary corrections are made to ensure compliance with health regulations. This can result in financial losses and damage to the reputation of the establishment.

2. Fines: Depending on the severity of the violations found during the inspection, the business may face fines imposed by the health department. These fines can vary in amount, with repeated violations often resulting in higher penalties.

3. Loss of License: In extreme cases, failing a health inspection can lead to the suspension or revocation of the business’s food service license. This can have long-term consequences for the establishment, as it may be difficult to regain the license and continue operations.

4. Reputation Damage: Failing a health inspection can tarnish the reputation of the business among customers and the community. Negative publicity resulting from health violations can lead to a loss of trust and a decline in patronage.

5. Legal Action: In severe cases where serious health violations are found, the business may face legal action, including potential lawsuits from customers who may have been harmed as a result of the conditions present in the establishment.

Overall, failing a health inspection in New Mexico can have far-reaching consequences for a business, impacting its operations, finances, reputation, and legal standing. It is crucial for businesses to prioritize compliance with health regulations to avoid these detrimental outcomes.

19. How can food establishments appeal inspection findings and violations in the state?

Food establishments in the state can typically appeal inspection findings and violations through a formal appeals process established by the local health department or regulatory agency. The following steps are commonly involved in the appeal process:

1. Review the inspection report: The first step for a food establishment is to thoroughly review the inspection report provided by the health inspector. Understanding the violations cited and the reasoning behind them is crucial for preparing an effective appeal.

2. Contact the health department: Once the violations have been reviewed, the food establishment can contact the health department to inquire about the appeals process. They may need to submit a formal written appeal within a specified timeframe.

3. Provide evidence and documentation: It is essential for the food establishment to gather supporting evidence or documentation to dispute the violations cited during the inspection. This may include maintenance records, temperature logs, employee training certificates, or any other relevant information.

4. Request a re-inspection: In some cases, food establishments may have the option to request a re-inspection to demonstrate compliance with the required standards. This can be done after addressing and correcting the cited violations.

5. Attend an appeals hearing: Depending on the severity of the violations and the regulations in place, the food establishment may be required to attend an appeals hearing where they can present their case to a review board or committee.

Overall, it is important for food establishments to follow the established appeals process and provide compelling evidence to support their case. By taking the necessary steps and actively engaging in the appeals process, food establishments can seek to overturn or mitigate inspection findings and violations in the state.

20. What resources are available to help food establishments comply with health inspection standards in New Mexico?

Food establishments in New Mexico have access to a variety of resources to help them comply with health inspection standards. Here are some key resources available:

1. New Mexico Environment Department (NMED): The NMED is the regulatory agency responsible for overseeing food safety in the state. They provide guidance, regulations, and resources to help food establishments understand and meet health inspection standards.

2. Food Safety Training: There are various training programs and courses available in New Mexico specifically tailored to educate food establishment operators and staff on best practices for ensuring food safety and compliance with health inspection standards.

3. Inspection Guidelines: The NMED provides detailed inspection guidelines and checklists that outline the specific requirements and standards that food establishments must adhere to during health inspections. These guidelines can serve as a valuable resource for businesses to self-assess and prepare for inspections.

4. Consultation Services: Some organizations and consultants offer specialized services to help food establishments navigate health inspection standards, conduct mock inspections, and provide tailored recommendations for compliance.

5. Online Resources: The NMED’s website and other food safety organizations provide a wealth of online resources, including fact sheets, training videos, and downloadable materials, to assist food establishments in understanding and fulfilling health inspection requirements.

By utilizing these resources and staying proactive in their approach to food safety and health inspection standards, food establishments in New Mexico can ensure compliance and maintain a safe environment for their customers.