Florida Violation V47: Wall/ceiling maintenance

Overview

Violation V47 (Wall/ceiling maintenance) is a Basic food safety violation in the Facilities category with 125 citations in the past 12 months. CONTAMINATION & PESTS: Walls and ceilings in poor repair shed paint, plaster, or other materials that can fall into food as physical contaminants.

Summary generated from Florida DBPR public inspection records and CDC food safety data.

BasicSeverity
FacilitiesCategory
125Citations (12 mo)
Codes 45–58Classification

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florida food safety violation V47?
Florida DBPR violation V47 (Wall/ceiling maintenance) is a Basic violation in the Facilities category. Walls and ceilings not properly maintained
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 harborage for pests. Condensation from ceiling drips onto food below.
What are the requirements to correct violation V47?
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.
What CDC risk factor does violation V47 fall under?
Violation V47 (Wall/ceiling maintenance) is classified under: Environmental Contamination - Structural Integrity. The CDC identifies five major risk factors contributing to foodborne illness outbreaks in food service establishments.

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