State Food Safety Practice Exam

What must be located in, or immediately adjacent to, a toilet room in food establishments?

1. Tile floors

2. A handwashing sink

3. A food preparation sink

4. A cleaning supply cabinet

The correct answer is: A handwashing sink

A handwashing sink must be located in or immediately adjacent to a toilet room in food establishments to ensure proper hygiene and sanitation practices. The presence of a handwashing sink is crucial because after using the toilet, individuals must wash their hands to remove any contaminants and prevent the spread of pathogens. This is especially important in food establishments where employees are handling food, as improper handwashing can lead to foodborne illnesses. The inclusion of a handwashing sink encourages frequent handwashing among staff, thereby reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Regulations typically mandate that these sinks be easily accessible to reinforce the importance of hand hygiene. The other options are not as critical for supporting hygiene practices in relation to restroom usage. For instance, tile floors may be a durable flooring option but do not directly contribute to hygiene after restroom use. Similarly, a food preparation sink is specifically designated for handling food items and cleaning utensils, which should not occur immediately after using the restroom. A cleaning supply cabinet is essential for storage but does not relate to immediate hygiene practices required after using a toilet.