Personal hygiene and cleanliness

Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness in the Kitchen

Personal Hygiene

• Always wash hands thoroughly before handling food and after activities like using the toilet, coughing, sneezing, touching hair, skin or clothing, or handling waste.
• Keep hands free from wounds, cuts or sores. If present, fully cover with a brightly coloured, waterproof dressing.
• Avoid using jewellery. They can harbour bacteria and pose a safety risk.
• Keep hair tied back or covered. Avoid touching hair and face while preparing food.
• Wear clean uniforms and aprons. Change aprons when moving between raw and cooked foods.

Personal Behaviour in the Kitchen

• Never cough or sneeze directly over food. If you are ill, particularly with a gastrointestinal illness, you should not handle food.
• Avoid habits that involve touching your face or mouth, such as biting nails or chewing on pens.
• Avoid tasting food with tools used for cooking or serving. Use a clean utensil if tasting is necessary.

Cleanliness in the Kitchen

• All food surfaces and equipment should be cleaned regularly, with a thorough cleaning after preparing raw food.
• Regularly empty and clean bins to prevent infestation and contamination.
• Keep all storage areas tidy and organised to facilitate effective cleaning.
• Use correct cleaning products and methods for different surfaces and cooking utensils.
• Always clean spills immediately to prevent slips and food contamination.

Importance of Comprehensive Cleaning Schedules

• Implementing effective cleaning schedules ensures all areas are cleaned regularly, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.
• Cleaning schedules should include what needs cleaning, how often, who is responsible and a space to record when and how well the task was completed.
• Regular reviews of cleaning schedules are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and identify areas needing improvement.