What must food handlers do after coming into contact with their body or clothing?

Food handlers are required to wash their hands whenever they come into contact with their body or clothing to prevent the transfer of contaminants to food. Hand washing is the most effective way to remove any potential pathogens or debris that may have been transferred during that contact. This practice is grounded in food safety regulations and guidelines, which emphasize the importance of maintaining proper hygiene to prevent foodborne illnesses.

While using a hand sanitizer may help reduce the number of germs on the hands, it is not a substitute for thorough hand washing, especially after such contacts. Simply wiping hands on a towel or changing gloves does not eliminate the risk of contamination; contaminants can still remain on the skin. Therefore, washing hands with soap and water is essential to ensure they are clean and safe for handling food. This step is a critical part of safe food handling practices.