4  SPECIFIC PRINCIPLES TO COVER EXCEPTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND CLEANING OF ALL BAKERY EQUIPMENT, AS DEFINED IN SECTION 3.

4.3  DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR MECHANICAL INTERMEDIATE PROOFERS

4.3.1 Definitions

4.3.1.1 Proofing: That operation where the dough pieces, after fermentation and/or dividing into suitably sized sections, are allowed to "rest" and regain the proper dough condition for moulding or other make-up in the baking process.

4.3.1.2 Intermediate Proofer: That enclosure, cabinet, machine or device in which dough pieces are allowed to regain their proper condition for make-up, and includes all belts, trays, housing structural supports, motors, chains, and loading, driving and discharge mechanisms used to accomplish the proofing process.

4.3.2 Specific Design Requirements

4.3.2.1 All internal and external framework, bumpers, guides, tracks or supports resting on floors or attached to ceiling or walls shall be sealed at the point of contact, and supports and braces, if hollow, shall be sealed. All components shall be easily accessible for thorough cleaning.

4.3.2.2 External hinges, attachment mechanisms and latches for holding inspection doors, port covers, access doors and other detachable parts shall be of the simple take-apart type.

4.3.2.3 Base of the proofer unit, except for vertical support members, shall have a minimum clearance of 6 inches (150mm) above the floor.

4.3.2.4 Catch pans under any section of the proofer shall be readily removable and shall not rest directly on the floor.

4.3.2.5 Top of proofer housing shall be so designed that flour or dust cannot sift down into the product zone or mechanism.

4.3.2.6 Trays shall be readily removable or readily accessible for thorough cleaning.

4.3.2.7 Fabric linings for trays shall be readily removable.

4.3.2.8 Trays should not be hollow, but if hollow, shall be constructed of durable and shatterproof material, and sealed.

4.3.2.9 Proofer sprockets, chains and other mechanisms shall be accessible and shall be so constructed and located that lubricant cannot leak, drip or be forced into the product zone.

4.3.2.10 Discharge conveyor housings shall be removable and accessible for cleaning.