Cuts, boils, septic spots and skin infections

Cuts, boils, septic spots and skin infections

Food handlers with boils and septic lesions should be excluded from high-risk food handling areas as they will be infected with Staphylococcus aureus. If a cut occurs at work it should be cleaned, disinfected and dried, then completely protected with a conspicuously coloured waterproof dressing. Blue dressings are used to improve their visibility in food if they fall off. Loose dressings should be replaced immediately. Loss of dressings must be reported immediately to the supervisor. Cuts at work should be entered in the accident book.

ADD PHOTO OF BLUE PLASTER

Cuts on hands may need the extra protection of waterproof finger stalls. Water proof dressings are necessary to prevent blood and bacteria contaminating the food and to prevent bacteria from food, especially raw meat or fish, infecting the wound which may turn septic. Furthermore, waterproof dressings do not collect grease or dirt. Metal strips incorporated in dressings assist detection only where metal detectors are in use. Staff must not scratch or pick spots or cuts.

Staff who report for work wearing unacceptable dressings must have them changed before they enter a food room or commence food handling duties.