What is an appropriate action if a food employee is not washing their hands properly?

When a food employee is not washing their hands properly, the most appropriate action is to correct them and ensure they understand the proper handwashing techniques. Proper handwashing is critical in preventing foodborne illnesses by removing pathogens and contaminants from the hands before food handling.

By addressing the issue directly, you reinforce the importance of hygiene in food safety and provide the necessary training or reminders to improve their technique. This approach not only corrects the immediate behavior but also fosters a culture of safety and compliance within the workplace, ensuring that employees understand the significance of maintaining proper hygiene standards at all times.

The other options may not effectively address the root of the problem. For instance, providing hand sanitizer does not substitute for proper handwashing, especially after specific tasks. Simply replacing gloves also doesn’t guarantee that the hands are clean if they were not washed correctly before putting them on. Assigning a different task avoids the issue without resolving it, which could lead to further lapses in hygiene practices. Hence, direct correction and education is the most effective and responsible action.