AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

February 7, 2000

AASA: BH 2000-006
SUBJECT: FOOD SERVICE WORKERS

Dear Boarding Home Provider:

This letter is to advise you of important changes to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-217 Food Worker Cards that apply to your boarding home setting.

WAC 246-217-015 was amended effective July 8, 1999, and now requires:

1. All food service workers must obtain a food worker card within 14 calendar days from the beginning of employment at a food service establishment.
2. Employers at any food service establishment (permanent or temporary) must provide information or training regarding pertinent safe food handling practices to food service workers prior to beginning food handling duties if the worker does not hold a valid food worker card. Documentation that the information or training has been provided to the individual must be kept on file by the employer and be available for inspection by the health officer at all times.

Please ensure all food service workers receive appropriate training for their duties prior to beginning food handling duties, and that they obtain a food worker card within 14 calendar days (not 30 days) from the beginning of employment. If you have any questions regarding this change, please call your Area Manager.

Sincerely,

Patricia K. Lashway, Director
Residential Care Services

cc: Area Managers