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Food Safety TrainingWashington State requires all food workers to have food safety training before handling food for the public. Food workers that have attended the food worker training class and passed the Washington test on food safety basics are issued a Food Worker Card (FWC). Additional Food Safety Training Food Worker Cards - Frequently Asked QuestionsAm I a food worker? You are a food worker if you work with unpackaged food, food equipment or utensils, or with any surface where people put unwrapped food. Do I need to get a food worker card? Yes. All food workers are required to have a valid Food Worker Card to work in Washington. Can I start work before I get my card? Yes, you can work for up to 14 days before you get your card – if you get food safety training from your employer. Where can I get a food worker card? Local health departments offer the training and will provide the card. Your card is good statewide. What do I have to do to get a card? You must attend a class and successfully pass an exam to get your card. What do cards cost? Cards cost $10.00 for you first card. How often must I renew my card? Your first card lasts for two years. Before two years have passed you must take the class and pass the exam again. Renewal cards after that last for three or five years. Can I use a card I got in another state? No, to be a food worker in Washington you must have a Washington Food Worker Card. Is there a study guide for the food safety exam? Yes, the Washington State Food and Beverage Workers' Manual can give you the food safety information you need before you attend your food safety training class. The manual is available in seven languages, including Braille upon request.
The manual can also be purchased from Department of Printing. Renew your food worker cardCan I get a renewal card if I have a current valid card? Yes, you may apply for a for a renewal card if you have a current card that is less then two years old (one that will not expire until 1-60 days after you get your renewal card.) You must show your current valid card when you apply for a renewal. Are renewal cards good for longer than my first card? Yes, renewal cards are valid for 3 years from the issue date. You can get a renewal card if you take a food worker training class and pass the Washington State exam. Is there a renewal card for people who have extra training? Yes, if you can provide proof of additional food safety training within the past two years will get a five-year renewal card when you renew their current card. What do I need to qualify for a 5-year card? You must:
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View the Food Worker Card regulations, Chapter 246-217 WAC, at the Code Reviser's Web site. It's Required! If you're at work, your Food Worker Card must be at work with you. Your Food Worker Card (or a copy) must be available for the health department to look at during inspections. Did you know?
You can lose your Food Worker Card if you handle
foods for the public in an unsafe manner.
Trick
of the Trade Your Food Worker Card is your property. We recommend that you keep the original and give a photocopy to your employer. Got Questions? Your local health department can answer questions on the food worker card program in your area.
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