Your body and clothes can carry bacteria into food, so kitchens set strict rules on personal hygiene and dress. A clean, complete uniform and correct handwashing are your first defence against food poisoning.
Why it matters
One person working while ill, or with dirty hands, can make many guests sick. Chefs notice your hygiene from the first minute.
Key ideas
Clean uniform
This is usually a clean jacket or tunic, an apron, a hat or hairnet and closed, non-slip shoes. Put it on at work, not at home.
Correct handwashing
Wet your hands, use soap and rub palms, backs, thumbs, nails and between your fingers for about 20 seconds. Rinse and dry with a disposable towel.
Fitness to work
Report vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or an infected wound before your shift. Many kitchens ask you to stay away until 48 hours after symptoms stop.
Step by step
- 1
Report any illness before your shift.
- 2
Remove jewellery, apart from a plain band if allowed.
- 3
Tie back long hair and put on a hat or hairnet.
- 4
Change into a clean uniform and non-slip shoes.
- 5
Wash your hands before touching any food.
Do
- Keep your nails short, clean and unpolished.
- Keep a spare apron and hairnet at work.
- Cover beards as your kitchen requires.
Common mistakes
- Don't wear your uniform outside or on breaks.
- Don't wear strong perfume or aftershave, which can taint food.
- Don't hide illness to avoid missing a shift.
The situation
You were sick in the night. By morning you feel better, and the kitchen is short-staffed.
What a professional does
You call your manager before the shift and explain honestly. You could still spread infection, so you follow the policy on returning, which is often 48 hours after symptoms stop.
Useful phrases
“Chef, I was sick last night, so I shouldn't come in today.”
“I need to change my apron first.”
Pro tip
Check yourself before you enter the kitchen: hair covered, jewellery off, uniform clean.
Quick check
How long should you rub your hands with soap?
Think about it, then show the answer
About 20 seconds, covering every surface, before rinsing and drying.