FOODSAFE Personal Hygiene Standards

Question 1

According to BC FOODSAFE, when must food handlers wash their hands?

Accepted Answer

Before handling food, after using the washroom, after handling raw food, after touching hair or face, and after any potential contamination

Answer

BC FOODSAFE requires handwashing at multiple critical points: before starting work, before handling food, after washroom use, after touching raw foods, after sneezing/coughing, after handling garbage, and after any contamination event.

Question 2

What is the minimum time recommended for proper handwashing under BC FOODSAFE guidelines?

Accepted Answer

20 seconds

Answer

BC FOODSAFE recommends washing hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, including scrubbing between fingers, under nails, and up to the wrists, followed by thorough rinsing and drying.

Question 3

Why should food handlers avoid wearing jewellery such as rings and bracelets while working?

Accepted Answer

Jewellery can harbour bacteria, fall into food, and make proper handwashing difficult

Answer

Jewellery can trap food particles and bacteria underneath, making thorough handwashing difficult. It can also fall into food, creating a physical hazard. A plain wedding band is typically the only exception.

Question 4

A food handler has an infected cut on their finger. What is the correct procedure?

Accepted Answer

Cover the wound with a waterproof bandage and wear a disposable glove over it

Answer

Infected wounds harbour Staphylococcus aureus and other pathogens. The wound must be covered with a waterproof bandage (preferably brightly coloured for visibility) and a disposable glove worn over it to prevent contamination.

Question 5

What type of soap should be used at handwashing stations in a food premise?

Accepted Answer

Liquid soap from a closed dispenser

Answer

Liquid soap from a closed dispenser is required because bar soap can harbour bacteria on its surface and be shared among users. Dish detergent is not formulated for skin, and hand sanitizer alone is not a substitute for handwashing.

BC FOODSAFE Practice Test

BC FOODSAFE Practice Test

FOODSAFE Personal Hygiene Standards