Contamination & HygieneQuestion 117 of 240

A cook finishes a cigarette in the alley and comes back to cut vegetables. What must happen first?

a.Only put on a hat
b.Nothing, since smoking was done outside
c.Wash hands thoroughly before handling food again
d.Chew gum to freshen up

Explanation

Smoking contaminates the hands and mouth, so hands must be washed thoroughly after smoking and before returning to any food task. Smoking is not allowed in prep areas, and even when done outside it requires handwashing before resuming work. A hat or gum does not remove the contamination.

Law Reference: NYC Health Code Article 81

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