Contamination & HygieneQuestion 119 of 240
A worker returns from taking out the garbage. Before handling clean plates and food, they should:
a.Rinse hands with cold water only
b.Wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
c.Just put on gloves
d.Wipe hands on the apron
Explanation
Taking out garbage contaminates the hands, so a full 20-second soap-and-water wash is required before touching clean plates or food. Putting on gloves over dirty hands, wiping on an apron, or a cold rinse does not remove pathogens. Handwashing is the barrier that protects the food.
Law Reference: NYC Health Code Article 81This topic, taught in full in the NYC Food Protection Certificate guide. NYC Food Protection Certificate — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $14.99 · 14-day refund →
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