§ 46.774. Storing clean items.

 (a)  General requirement for equipment, utensils, linens and single-service and single-use articles. Except as specified in subsection (d), cleaned equipment and utensils, laundered linens and single-service and single-use articles shall be stored as follows:

   (1)  In a clean, dry location.

   (2)  Where they are not exposed to splash, dust or other contamination.

   (3)  At least 15 cm (6 inches) above the floor.

 (b)  Additional storage requirements for equipment and utensils. Clean equipment and utensils shall be stored as specified in subsection (a) and shall be stored covered or inverted, and in a self-draining position that allows air drying.

 (c)  Additional storage requirements for single-service and single-use articles. Single-service and single-use articles shall be stored as specified in subsection (a) and shall be kept in the original protective package or stored by using other means that afford protection from contamination until used.

 (d)  Items in closed packages. Items that are kept in closed packages may be stored less than 15 cm (6 inches) above the floor on dollies, pallets, racks and skids that are designed as specified in §  46.595 (relating to case lot handling equipment: moveability).

 (e)  Prohibited storage locations. Except as specified in subsection (f), cleaned and sanitized equipment, utensils, laundered linens and single-service and single-use articles may not be stored in any of the following locations:

   (1)  A locker room.

   (2)  A toilet room.

   (3)  A garbage room.

   (4)  A mechanical room.

   (5)  Under a sewer line that is not shielded to intercept potential drips.

   (6)  Under a leaking water line—including a leaking automatic fire sprinkler head—or under a line on which water has condensed.

   (7)  Under an open stairwell.

   (8)  Under another source of contamination.

 (f)  Limited exception for a locker room. Laundered linens and single-service and single-use articles that are packaged or in a facility such as a cabinet may be stored in a locker room.