To most people, safety is common sense. Don’t leave knives hanging over the edge of the counter. Don’t leave raw chicken sitting out. Most dangers in the kitchen fall into one of four categories – Potential contaminants, sharp, slippery, or hot.
For the sake of those not born with common sense, we’ll list the common issues you’ll find in the kitchen.
- Wash your hands before handling food.
- Wash your hands after handling food, especially raw meats, fish, poultry, and dairy products.
- Keep knives in the wooden block.
- Roll up your sleeves if your apparel has long sleeves.
- Keep a fire extinguisher somewhere near the kitchen but not in the kitchen.
- Clean the counter or prep space as you work.
- Do not use electrical appliances near water.
- If you spill something on the floor, wipe it up immediately.
- Do not wear loose jewelry while cooking or preparing food
- Wash the cutting board immediately after cutting meat, fish, or poultry
- Use potholders when removing anything from the oven
- Aim the long handles of pots and pans toward the side or back of the stove.