How to distinguish ATP equipment evidence from a HACCP plan

Check equipment documentation by model scope and HACCP records against the operation's own process.

30 September 2021Updated 23 September 2026

Short answer

For ATP evidence, match scope, equipment type, class, certificate holder and validity to the selected model. HACCP concerns the operation's hazard controls and records. Neither substitutes for the other; review the document copy and the site's plan separately before purchase.

ATP and HACCP do not describe the same document or the same kind of evidence. When buying equipment, assess the requested proof separately from the food-safety records of the operation.

Read the scope of the equipment document

Check the issuing body, equipment type and class in scope, model details and validity conditions. Request a current document copy rather than relying on general sales wording; ask the document holder whether a different body or use is covered.

Review HACCP at the operating site. The operation's hazard analysis, control measures, responsible people and records are assessed against its own process. A document for equipment does not replace that analysis or records from a particular shipment.

Keep the document scope, site plan and evidence for a particular route under separate names in the purchase or audit file. Confirm product or legal compliance with an authorised specialist and applicable official text.