Food handlers should not wash their hands with gloves on. It is important to understand that gloves are not a substitute for proper hand hygiene. Washing hands is an essential step in preventing the spread of bacteria and other harmful pathogens.
When using gloves, food handlers should follow the correct procedure for handwashing before putting on gloves. This involves wetting hands with clean, running water, applying soap, lathering hands thoroughly (including the backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails), scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, rinsing hands thoroughly, and finally, drying hands with a single-use paper towel or air dryer.
Once the hands are properly washed and dried, gloves can be worn for specific tasks, such as handling ready-to-eat food. However, it is important to note that gloves should be changed and hands should be washed whenever they become contaminated or when switching tasks to prevent cross-contamination. For example, if a food handler has finished handling raw meat and needs to handle ready-to-eat food, they should remove the gloves, wash their hands, and then put on a new pair of gloves.
It is also important to mention that gloves should only be used when necessary. For tasks like washing produce, gloves are not required. Washing produce should be done with clean, running water to remove any dirt or contaminants. Similarly, when handling ready-to-eat ingredients that will be cooked to a correct internal temperature, gloves may not be necessary as the cooking process will eliminate any potential pathogens.
When using gloves, it is crucial to use gloves that are approved for safe foodservice. These gloves should be made of materials that are safe for contact with food and should meet the necessary standards and regulations. Gloves should be properly sized to ensure a snug fit, which allows for dexterity and prevents the risk of gloves slipping off or tearing during use.
It is important to emphasize that gloves should never be washed and reused. Once gloves are contaminated or have been used for a specific task, they should be discarded and replaced with a fresh pair. Washing and reusing gloves can lead to the spread of bacteria and cross-contamination.
Food handlers should not wash their hands with gloves on. Proper handwashing should be conducted before wearing gloves, and gloves should be changed and hands washed whenever necessary. Gloves should be used when handling ready-to-eat food, but not required for tasks like washing produce or handling ingredients for cooking. It is important to use gloves approved for safe foodservice, and never wash and reuse gloves to prevent cross-contamination.