How long do I have to correct a Employee Handwashing — Improper Procedure violation?

This is a Priority violation. Typical correction deadline: 24-72 hours (Priority). Always verify the exact deadline written on your inspection report.

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PPriority · FDA Food Code 2-301.12 · 24-72 hours (Priority)

How to fix: Employee Handwashing — Improper Procedure

Employee did not wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water after handling raw food or before serving.

What this violation means

FDA Food Code 2-301.12 requires food workers to wash hands thoroughly — at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water — after handling raw animal foods, after touching bodily fluids, after using the restroom, and before putting on gloves. This is one of the most cited Priority violations because improperly washed hands are a direct vehicle for transmitting pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Norovirus.

Step-by-step: how to fix this before re-inspection

1Train all employees on the 20-second handwashing procedure — before and after the re-inspection

2Post a laminated handwashing reminder directly above the handwashing sink

3Stock and refill soap and paper towels before every shift

4Make sure the handwashing sink is clear and accessible — not used for food prep or storage

5Have employees sign a training log showing they completed handwashing training

What the inspector rechecks at re-inspection

WHAT THE INSPECTOR CHECKS

Inspectors do not just look at the surface. For this violation, expect them to verify:

☐Observes employees actively washing hands at the handwashing sink (not the prep sink)

☐Confirms soap and paper towels are stocked and accessible

☐Checks handwashing sink is not blocked by equipment or stored items

☐Reviews employee training records for handwashing policy

☐Looks for a posted handwashing reminder near the sink

How to prevent this violation from recurring

Add handwashing compliance to your daily opening and closing checklists

Train new employees on handwashing during their first shift

Assign a supervisor to observe handwashing during each meal period

Related violations to check

Handwashing Sink Inaccessible or Missing→Bare-Hand Contact with Ready-to-Eat Food→No Employee Illness Policy→

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This document is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not guarantee a passing re-inspection score. Always verify requirements with your local health department. Fix steps are based on FDA Food Code 2-301.12; individual jurisdictions may have additional requirements.

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FDA Food Code 2-301.12

Employee did not wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water after handling raw food or before serving.

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