If fingernail polish or fake nails are worn by a food worker, what is the required safety measure?

• A. Immediately wash hands and continue
• B. Remove nails before starting
• C. Wear gloves when handling food
• D. Wear a face shield

Answer: (C)

Preventing contamination from fingernails is the safety goal. Fingernail polish and fake nails can harbor bacteria and can chip or shed into food, which is a food safety risk. Wearing gloves when handling food creates a protective barrier between your hands (including the nails) and the food, greatly reducing the chance of transferring contaminants. Remember to wash hands thoroughly before putting on gloves and to change gloves whenever they become soiled or torn, rather than relying on handwashing alone to eliminate the risk. Wearing a face shield doesn’t address nail hygiene, and removing nails, while helpful in some settings, isn’t the standard requirement for this scenario.