Process Control
A spreadsheet-style grid for managing each Process Control point — same interface as the CCP grid.
What this is for
The Process Control section is a sibling grid to Critical Control Points. It uses the exact same interface and works the same way, but rows are populated from hazards evaluated as PC (Process Control) in your decision tree, not as CCP.
Process Controls are commonly used by some standards (e.g., GFSI/SQF Process Hazard Controls) for points that aren’t full CCPs but still need monitoring. The split between CCP and PC keeps them distinct in your plan.
Common tasks
How to add a PC row
Rows auto-populate when a hazard evaluates as PC. To add manually, click + Add row at the bottom.
How to fill in a cell
Click a cell to edit inline using the rich-text editor. Click the expand icon for a full-screen editor on complex content.
How to add or remove columns
Click + at the right edge of the header row to add. Right-click a header → Rename or Delete to modify (the locked PC # and Hazard columns can’t be renamed or deleted).
How to reorder rows or columns
Drag the row handle (left edge) or column header (header row).
How to expand a cell to full screen
Click the expand icon on the cell.
Screen reference
Same layout as the CCP grid. Defaults:
| Column | Locked | Description |
|---|---|---|
| PC # | Yes | Auto-numbered (PC-1, PC-2, …). |
| Hazard | Yes | The hazard from analysis. |
| Critical Limits | No | Often less stringent than CCP — operating limits. |
| Monitoring | No | Procedure, frequency, person. |
| Corrective Actions | No | Steps if limits are breached. |
| Verification | No | Verification procedures. |
| Records | No | Where logged. |
Differences from CCP
| Aspect | CCP | PC |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-population trigger | Hazard evaluated as CCP | Hazard evaluated as PC |
| Visual styling | Red coloured pills | Yellow coloured pills |
| Use case | Steps where loss of control = unsafe food | Steps where loss of control = quality/process issue |
FAQs
What’s the difference between CCP and PC?
- CCP (Critical Control Point) — failure causes a food safety risk. Required to have measurable critical limits.
- PC (Process Control) — failure causes a process or quality issue, not a food safety risk. Operating limits, less stringent.
The decision tree determines which a hazard becomes. In some standards (FSMA), Process Preventive Controls (PCP) are used instead — see your standard’s guidance.
Can the same hazard be both a CCP and a PC? Not on the same evaluation. If you re-evaluate the hazard differently, the new evaluation replaces the old. You can have two separate hazards on the same product/step where one is CCP and another is PC.
Why don’t I see a PC tab in my plan? Either no hazards have been evaluated as PC yet, or the section was unchecked in the Setup wizard. Re-enable it from File → Edit setup.
Should I use CCP and PC, or just CCP? Follow your standard. Some standards (HACCP-only) use just CCPs. GFSI standards (BRC, SQF, FSSC22000) often distinguish CCPs from PRP-based controls or PCs.
The PC grid columns reset when I create a new plan — can I save them as a template? Not yet. The grid columns are part of the plan. To carry them across plans, duplicate an existing plan in the cloud browser and rename it.