Do food handlers need to wash their hands before putting on gloves?

Washing hands before putting on gloves is essential to ensure food safety and prevent cross-contamination. Even if food handlers are going to wear gloves, their hands can still carry harmful bacteria, viruses, or contaminants. If they don’t wash their hands before donning gloves, any pathogens present can be transferred to the gloves and subsequently contaminate the food they handle.

Gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene; they are an additional layer of protection. Proper handwashing removes contaminants, ensuring that when the gloves are put on, they are not carrying any harmful substances. This practice aligns with food safety standards and helps protect public health by reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

The other options imply that handwashing might not be required under various circumstances, which could lead to unsafe food handling practices. It's crucial to maintain a consistent hygiene routine to ensure food safety at all times, regardless of the situation.