When should food workers wash their hands?

Food workers should wash their hands before handling food and after any activities that could lead to contamination. This practice is crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses, as clean hands help avoid the transfer of harmful bacteria or pathogens to food that will be consumed by others.

When workers wash their hands before handling food, they reduce the risk of introducing contaminants from their hands to the food. Moreover, washing hands after activities such as using the restroom, handling raw foods, or touching other surfaces is equally important, as these actions can lead to the contamination of food with harmful microorganisms.

The importance of this practice is underscored by public health guidelines, which emphasize that proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to ensure food safety. By keeping hands clean during both phases—before handling food and after potential contamination events—food workers play a vital role in maintaining food safety in any setting.