Food Safety Certifications in California
The state of California requires all food establishments to have a Certified Food Handler on site at any facility that prepares and serves unpackaged foods. These establishments include restaurants, institutions, supermarkets, delis, cafeterias and hot dog carts. The only food facilities not required to employ a worker with a CFH are vehicles that sell prepackaged food, such as ice cream trucks, produce stands that sell uncut produce or facilities that sell only prepackaged foods.
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Certification Programs
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California recognizes three programs that satisfy state law for certified food handlers: The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, commonly known as ServSafe, Prometric and the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals. While these programs are based in states other than California, the American National Standards Institute accredits examinations nationwide.
Test Requirements
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Individuals must pass a food safety examination with a score of 75 percent or higher to receive a certified food handler card. Workers must arrange to take their food handler's exam and pay any fees. Private and public organizations offer food handler testing and certification, though test takers must check whether these testing facilities offer California-approved tests. Testing facilities offer study guides and tests in various languages to accommodate applicants. The local health department will provide candidates with a list of testing sites within the county.
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Basic Food Safety
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Successful completion of the food handler exam requires basic knowledge of food safety, storage and handling techniques. Exam questions may cover the safe temperatures of storing and cooking various foods, how to handle raw meat or how to wash hands properly. Additional questions may ask applicants what types of containers to store food in and how to arrange food in the refrigerator for maximum safety. Studying the food handler's manual and taking the practice examination increases the applicant's chance of passing.
Documentation
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Once an applicant has successfully completed the exam, he will receive a food handler's card. A copy needs to remain at the worksite in the employee's file or in a location that allows verification by a health inspection worker. Expiration dates vary, but most cards are current for four to five years. Re-certification is necessary once a worker's card expires.
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References
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