Florida Violation V47: Wall/ceiling maintenance
Under Florida's food safety regulations, V47 (Wall/ceiling maintenance) is a basic violation addressing Facilities standards.
Reference: 61C-4.019(8)(b), FDA Food Code 6-501.11
What the Code Says
V47 — Wall/ceiling maintenance
Walls and ceilings not properly maintained
— Florida Administrative Code 61C-4, FDA Food Code
Why This Matters
CONTAMINATION & PESTS: Walls and ceilings in poor repair shed paint, plaster, or other materials that can fall into food as physical contaminants. Damaged surfaces cannot be cleaned effectively, allowing bacterial and mold growth. Holes and cracks in walls and ceilings provide entry points and harborage for pests. Condensation from ceiling drips onto food below.
CDC Risk Factor Classification: Environmental Contamination - Structural Integrity
The CDC identifies five major contributing factors to foodborne illness outbreaks: food from unsafe sources, inadequate cooking, improper holding temperatures, contaminated equipment, and poor personal hygiene. Source: CDC Contributing Factors
Real-World Impact
A 2020 Florida ice cream shop was cited after inspectors found ceiling tiles damaged by a water leak, with visible mold growth directly above the serving area. The facility was required to replace ceiling materials and address the moisture source before continuing food preparation.
Source: CDC — Dampness and Mold
Code Requirements
Walls and ceilings must be smooth, non-absorbent, easily cleanable, and in good repair. Repair cracks, holes, and peeling surfaces promptly. Clean regularly to prevent grease buildup. Address condensation issues. Seal penetrations around pipes and utilities. Use approved materials for food establishment construction.
References
- Florida DBPR Division of Hotels & Restaurants
- FDA Food Code (Current Edition)
- CDC Food Safety
- CDC: Contributing Factors to Foodborne Illness Outbreaks
- Florida Administrative Code Chapter 61C-4
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Florida food safety violation V47?
- Walls and ceilings not properly maintained This is classified as a basic violation under the Facilities category.
- Why is violation V47 (Wall/ceiling maintenance) dangerous?
- CONTAMINATION & PESTS: Walls and ceilings in poor repair shed paint, plaster, or other materials that can fall into food as physical contaminants. Damaged surfaces cannot be cleaned effectively, allowing bacterial and mold growth. Holes and cracks in walls and ceilings provide entry points and harbo...
- What CDC risk factor does this violation fall under?
- This violation is classified under: Environmental Contamination - Structural Integrity.
Data source: Florida DBPR public inspection records. Health risk information sourced from CDC, FDA Food Code, and peer-reviewed research. How we collect and verify this data.