What must food handlers do before taking out the garbage?
Food handlers play a crucial role in maintaining a clean and safe environment in restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments. Before disposing of garbage, there are several important steps that food handlers must follow to ensure proper waste management and prevent the spread of diseases. This article will discuss the necessary precautions and procedures that food handlers should adhere to before taking out the garbage.
1. Wash Hands Thoroughly
The first and most important step that food handlers must take before handling garbage is to wash their hands thoroughly. This helps to eliminate any bacteria or viruses that may be present on their hands, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Food handlers should use warm water and soap, and scrub their hands for at least 20 seconds, ensuring that all areas are covered, including the fingertips, between the fingers, and under the nails.
2. Use Proper Garbage Bags
Food handlers should use proper garbage bags designed for food waste. These bags are typically labeled as “biohazard” or “food waste” and are made of strong, durable material to prevent leaks and spills. It is important to ensure that the bags are not torn or damaged, as this can lead to unsanitary conditions and potential health hazards.
3. Separate Waste Properly
Proper waste separation is essential for efficient garbage disposal. Food handlers should separate waste into different categories, such as organic waste, recyclables, and non-recyclables. This helps to streamline the waste management process and ensures that waste is disposed of in the appropriate manner. Organic waste, such as food scraps and paper products, should be placed in a compost bin or a designated organic waste container.
4. Secure the Garbage Bag
After filling the garbage bag with waste, food handlers must ensure that it is securely sealed. This prevents odors from escaping and reduces the risk of pests being attracted to the garbage. Food handlers should use the ties provided with the garbage bag or a heavy-duty tie to secure the bag tightly.
5. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Before taking out the garbage, food handlers should clean and disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the waste. This includes the garbage can, the area where the waste was collected, and any utensils or containers used to transport the waste. Proper cleaning and disinfection help to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses, ensuring a safe environment for both employees and customers.
6. Report Any Issues
If food handlers encounter any issues with the garbage disposal process, such as overflowing bins or broken garbage bags, they should report these issues to their supervisor or manager. Promptly addressing these problems helps to maintain a clean and safe environment and ensures that waste is managed effectively.
In conclusion, food handlers must follow several important steps before taking out the garbage to ensure proper waste management and prevent the spread of diseases. By washing their hands, using proper garbage bags, separating waste, securing the bags, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and reporting any issues, food handlers can contribute to a clean and safe food service establishment.
