Hygiene
In addition to working safely, it is important that you work hygienically. This is especially critical when dealing with food items, handling serviceware and glasses or when cleaning food contact surfaces such as in the kitchenette.
Food poisoning is a matter of serious concern for any food and beverage operation. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) estimates that over 5 million cases of food poisoning occur each year. Not only are there serious legal consequences for businesses that breach food safety legislation, but poor food handling practices could hospitalise or even kill a patron.
As a result, tough legislation has been brought in to improve food safety. Compliance with these standards is the minimum requirement for an establishment. They allow for planning of all operational duties around the framework provided.
If you do not follow the appropriate personal hygiene and work hygiene habits then you may be guilty of transmitting contagious and/or foodborne illnesses. All staff have a responsibility to do everything they can to prevent the transmission of illnesses.
Personal habits that can result in unhygienic contact include:
All of the above actions can result in transferring microorganisms to surfaces or around the premises. You must take particular care not to contaminate food preparation and contact surfaces such as:
Food poisoning is a matter of serious concern for any food and beverage operation. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) estimates that over 5 million cases of food poisoning occur each year. Not only are there serious legal consequences for businesses that breach food safety legislation, but poor food handling practices could hospitalise or even kill a patron.
As a result, tough legislation has been brought in to improve food safety. Compliance with these standards is the minimum requirement for an establishment. They allow for planning of all operational duties around the framework provided.
If you do not follow the appropriate personal hygiene and work hygiene habits then you may be guilty of transmitting contagious and/or foodborne illnesses. All staff have a responsibility to do everything they can to prevent the transmission of illnesses.
Personal habits that can result in unhygienic contact include:
- blowing your nose
- coughing
- drinking
- eating
- scratching your skin or hair
- sneezing
- spitting
- touching wounds
- transmitting tobacco products by smoking
All of the above actions can result in transferring microorganisms to surfaces or around the premises. You must take particular care not to contaminate food preparation and contact surfaces such as:
- chopping boards
- knives
- containers
- cooking utensils
- crockery
- cutlery
- glassware
- pots and pans
- sinks
- workbenches