New Active Managerial Control (AMC) Evaluation: Technical Expertise & Communication Skills

Active Managerial Control (AMC) represents a proactive philosophy in food safety, urging retail and food service managers to anticipate risks and embed effective controls within daily operations. Rather than reacting to problems after they arise, AMC calls for continuous, purposeful management to safeguard public health.

This training, “AMC Evaluation: Technical Expertise and Professional Communication Skills,” is designed for retail food regulators. It develops both the technical ability to assess food safety systems and the communication skills crucial for building trust and collaboration.

Participants will gain practical experience in evaluating AMC by interpreting the Food Code, applying evidence-based assessment techniques, and using effective communication to promote lasting compliance. The curriculum blends technical knowledge and the ability to foster trust, educate, and partner with establishments.

Learning Objectives

• Evaluate AMC systems and foodborne illness risk factors using structured, evidence-based methods.
• Explain the Food Code’s major risk controls, including the five key public health interventions.
• Apply the AMC Multiplier Effect to maximize foodborne illness prevention.
• Identify and implement effective training approaches for diverse compliance challenges.
• Recognize personal strengths and communication weaknesses that influence compliance outcomes.
• Train establishment personnel in AMC evaluation while managing stress and difficult situations.
• Communicate professionally using clear regulatory language and references.
• Build rapport and maintain audit independence using the TRUST framework (Transparency, Respect, Understanding, Support, Timeliness).
• Use active listening and open-ended questioning to reduce defensiveness and reveal root causes.
• Navigate challenging conversations using the CALM method (Control emotions, Acknowledge, Listen, Move forward).
• Promote collaborative solutions using constructive communication strategies.
• Integrate technical and relational skills for effective AMC system implementation.
• Turn compliance challenges into opportunities for sustained improvement.

After completing this course, retail food regulators will be able to:

• Conduct thorough, technically sound AMC assessments.
• Build cooperative relationships that improve compliance and information gathering.
• Manage challenging inspection situations with emotional intelligence.
• Communicate findings with clarity and confidence.
• Serve as trusted advisors and partners in public health protection.