Interested in a food service career in Jefferson County, Alabama? You’ll need to get trained as a certified food handler first. Acquiring this title shows your prospective employer that you understand what it takes to maintain safety in any establishment where food is sold or served.
So, how do you sign up?
In this guide, we'll explain how to enroll in a course, what participants will learn about and district rules that all cuisine workers need to follow.
Why Does One Need This Instruction?
Cuisine server education is fundamental for everyone who wants to work in the service sector. It equips professionals with the skills to provide responsible service and maintain the well-being of their customers.
Some of the main topics students will learn about are:
Best Practices for Storage: How to store items at their correct temperatures and in the right containers to prevent bacterial growth.
Avoiding Cross-Contamination: Keeping raw and cooked items apart to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Hygiene Tips: Proper handwashing techniques, sterilizing materials and surfaces, using protective gear and more.
Cooking Temperatures: How to cook different kinds of items at their correct temperatures so pathogens don't proliferate.
A Brief Overview of Regulations & What to Expect
This region has strict laws in place to ensure all cuisine service providers uphold high standards of hygiene and security. The Department of Health (JCDH) is in charge of enforcing these policies and will check for the following:
Establishment Practices: Officials regularly inspect cuisine service establishments to ensure they comply with local security standards. During these inspections, officials check storage and cleaning practices. They’ll also verify that each worker has their cuisine server credentials.
Temperature Control: Establishments must maintain proper temperature controls to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. This includes keeping cold items at the correct degree in refrigerators or freezers and reaching the appropriate internal temp for those that need to be cooked.
Sanitation: All cuisine prep and storage areas must be kept clean at all times. Employees are responsible for regularly sanitizing working surfaces, utensils and equipment.
How to Get a Cuisine Servers Pass
Now that you have an idea of what to expect during the training, it’s time to lock down your certificate! Here’s how to get started:
1. Enroll in a JCDH-Approved Course
Sign up for a course that’s recognized by the JCDH so your certification is valid. Approved programs cover essential safety guidelines and are offered both online and in person.
2. Complete the Training
As students work through the course, they’ll become familiar with all the vital practices for handling cuisines securely. They’ll also gain a firm grasp on the laws specific to this region the state as a whole, which can impact one's job duties.
3. Pass the Exam
Once you finish the class, you’ll need to pass a certification exam to obtain your permit. The exam will test your knowledge of the material covered in the course, including food safety practices and local regulations.
4. Receive the Card
After passing the exam, you’ll receive your food safety certification, which proves that you completed the necessary training and are qualified to handle goods properly. Be sure to keep your card with you while on the job, as your employer or health inspectors may request it.
Renewing One's Permit
Food handler cards in Jefferson County are typically valid for two years. To renew your license, you must complete a refresher course and pass the certification exam again before your card expires. The refresher ensures that your knowledge of food safety guidelines and regulations is current and that you’ll continue to meet JCDH standards.
The renewal process is fast and easy, especially if you opt for a web-based class. Online course registration can save you time, allow you to go at your own pace and avoid transportation-related costs. Many are even mobile-friendly, allowing you to review the material anytime, anywhere.
Obtain a Cuisine Servers Pass Today
Securing a server’s pass is a critical step for anyone wishing to get a job in the cuisine and beverage industry. By enrolling in a cuisine security course, passing the certification exam and staying informed about local statutes, workers will be well-equipped to maintain a secure and healthy environment in any local or national establishment.
Sign up today to begin the journey!