Gloves, tongs and hairnets
A food handler must, when engaging in any food handling operation– take all practicable measures to ensure his or her body, anything from their body, and anything they are wearing, does not contaminate food or surfaces likely to come into contact with food.
Food handlers do not have to use tongs or wear gloves when handling food, but in order to help prevent cross contamination:
- Hands must be washed regularly and especially in between tasks.
- If tongs are used, they must only be used for one type of food.
- If gloves are worn, they must be changed between tasks. Hands must still be washed before using gloves and between glove changes.
*It may be appropriate for gloves to be worn to cover jewellery, long or artificial fingernails, or a dressing or bandage.
Hairnets
Food handlers are not required to wear hairnets, but hair must be otherwise restrained by tying back or using hats or bandanas etc.
More information
- Read about the responsibilities of food handlers
- Learn more about cross contamination
- 5 steps to clean hands