What should a food handler do if they have an open wound?

When a food handler has an open wound, it is essential for safety and hygiene reasons to cover it properly. Covering the wound with a waterproof bandage not only protects the injury from contamination but also prevents the wound from coming into contact with food or food surfaces. Wearing gloves over the bandage provides an additional layer of protection, ensuring that any pathogens that might be present in the wound do not spread to food or other surfaces. This practice adheres to food safety guidelines that aim to minimize the risk of foodborne illness and maintain sanitary conditions while handling food.

Other options might not provide the necessary protection. For instance, ignoring a minor wound can lead to contamination that compromises food safety. Keeping the wound uncovered poses a high risk of contamination, and applying lotion, while it may help soothe the wound, does not protect against exposure to food or ensure that the wound is kept clean and safe. Properly addressing an open wound is critical in ensuring that food safety standards are maintained.