Should hands be washed after handling garbage?

Washing hands after handling garbage is essential for maintaining proper hygiene and preventing the spread of pathogens. Garbage can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that pose a risk to health. When food handlers come into contact with waste, it's crucial to wash their hands thoroughly to eliminate any lingering germs that might be transferred to food, surfaces, or other areas of the restaurant or food preparation environment.

By consistently washing hands in this situation, food handlers ensure that they minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and uphold safe food handling practices. This habit aligns with the fundamental principles of food safety, which stress the importance of cleanliness not just during food preparation, but also in situations involving potentially contaminated materials, such as garbage.