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What Is a Step in Practicing Correct Personal Hygiene: ServSafe
Personal hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining good health and preventing the spread of diseases. In foodservice establishments, practicing correct personal hygiene is of utmost importance to ensure the safety and well-being of both employees and customers. ServSafe, a leading food safety training and certification program, provides guidelines and standards to follow when it comes to personal hygiene practices. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in practicing correct personal hygiene according to ServSafe guidelines, and answer some frequently asked questions related to this topic.
Step 1: Handwashing
Handwashing is one of the most important steps in personal hygiene, especially in the foodservice industry. ServSafe recommends the following steps for effective handwashing:
1. Wet hands with warm running water.
2. Apply soap and lather well, ensuring to cover all surfaces of the hands, including the backs, between fingers, and under nails.
3. Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
5. Dry hands with a single-use paper towel or air dryer.
6. Use the paper towel to turn off the faucet and open the door if necessary.
Step 2: Proper Attire
Wearing the appropriate attire is essential to maintain personal hygiene in a foodservice setting. ServSafe recommends the following guidelines for proper attire:
1. Wear clean and well-fitting clothing that covers the entire body, including arms and legs.
2. Avoid wearing jewelry, except for a plain wedding band, as it can harbor bacteria and become a source of contamination.
3. Use hair restraints, such as hairnets or hats, to prevent hair from falling into food.
4. Wear non-slip shoes to prevent accidents in the kitchen area.
Step 3: Personal Cleanliness
Maintaining personal cleanliness is crucial to prevent the spread of pathogens and ensure a safe food environment. ServSafe suggests the following practices for personal cleanliness:
1. Take regular showers or baths to keep the body clean and free from odor-causing bacteria.
2. Brush and floss teeth regularly to maintain oral hygiene, as oral health can affect overall health.
3. Trim and clean nails regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.
4. Avoid touching the face, nose, mouth, or hair while handling food.
Step 4: Illness and Injury Prevention
Preventing the spread of illnesses and injuries is vital in a foodservice establishment. ServSafe provides the following guidelines for illness and injury prevention:
1. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of illness, such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or jaundice.
2. Cover any open wounds or cuts with waterproof bandages and wear gloves to prevent the spread of bacteria.
3. Use utensils or gloves when handling ready-to-eat food to minimize the risk of contamination.
4. Avoid touching ready-to-eat food with bare hands.
FAQs:
Q: How often should employees wash their hands while working in a foodservice establishment?
A: According to ServSafe guidelines, employees should wash their hands at least every four hours during their shift, after using the restroom, before and after handling raw food, after touching their face or hair, and after handling garbage.
Q: Can hand sanitizers be used as a substitute for handwashing?
A: Hand sanitizers can be used as an additional measure, but they should not replace proper handwashing. Hand sanitizers are less effective in removing certain types of pathogens, such as norovirus, and should only be used when handwashing facilities are not available.
Q: What should employees do if they have a foodborne illness?
A: If an employee is diagnosed with a foodborne illness, they should inform their supervisor immediately and stay home until they are no longer contagious. It is essential to prevent the spread of the illness to coworkers and customers.
Q: Is it necessary for employees to wear gloves when handling food?
A: Gloves should be used when handling ready-to-eat food to prevent contamination. However, gloves are not a substitute for handwashing. Employees should wash their hands before putting on gloves and change them regularly to maintain hygiene.
In summary, practicing correct personal hygiene in a foodservice establishment is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of both employees and customers. ServSafe provides guidelines and standards for personal hygiene practices, including steps like handwashing, proper attire, personal cleanliness, and illness and injury prevention. By following these guidelines, foodservice professionals can maintain a safe and healthy environment for all.
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