The term ‘food handler’ mainly refers to people who directly touch open food as part of their work; however, it also includes anyone who may touch food contact surfaces or other surfaces in rooms where open food is handled. Food handler medical assessments are health examinations required for individuals who work in the food industry to ensure they are fit to handle food safely. It involves a series of medical evaluations to ensure that food handlers are free from contagious diseases, infections, or medical conditions that could jeopardise food hygiene and safety.
Managers in the food industry must minimise the risk of food becoming microbiologically contaminated by food handlers. Anyone working in the food industry, including chefs, cooks, servers, and other food handlers, should undergo a food handlers medical test to ensure the safety and wellbeing of consumers. Food handler medical testing helps to prevent contamination by identifying potential health issues that could lead to foodborne illnesses, protecting both customers and the reputation of the establishment.
Such testing is crucial for compliance with health regulations and guidelines established by food safety authorities, helping to maintain the integrity of food safety practices. To ensure that infectious diseases are not transmitted to your customers, it is crucial to conduct both preliminary and routine testing. As an additional precaution, employers should ensure that all staff handling food and anyone working in a food handling area knows to report symptoms of infection and if they have had close contact with someone with symptoms.
The food handler medical test typically includes screening for infectious diseases, ensuring immunisations are up to date and checking for any medical conditions that could affect food safety. Testing options include blood tests, swabs, and stool tests. Each test is accompanied by a certified laboratory report for your employee records. You may also need to provide proof of certain vaccinations like hepatitis A or B, which are often required for food handlers.
Employers should prioritise the health and wellbeing of their staff and customers by enforcing food handler medical assessments as part of their hiring practices. Regular medical tests for food handlers are imperative to maintain a safe environment and comply with health regulations. Choose Occupational Health provides food handler medical assessments for businesses nationwide, helping food handlers prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses and maintain a high level of hygiene.
If your business requires food handler medical assessments or workplace health surveillance, speak to our team at Choose Occupational Health today by calling 01228 513687.