AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

What is the proper way to dry hands after washing at a handwashing station?

1. Using a cloth towel that is reused

2. Using an air-blow hand dryer

3. Using paper towels that are in a dispenser

4. Both air-blow and paper towels are acceptable

The correct answer is: Both air-blow and paper towels are acceptable

The proper methods for drying hands after washing are critical for maintaining hygiene in food service environments. Air-blow hand dryers and disposable paper towels are both effective options. Using an air-blow hand dryer is a suitable method because it allows for hands to dry quickly without the need for physical contact with a towel, reducing the chance of recontaminating clean hands. They are instantaneous and help in minimizing waste, as there are no paper towels to dispose of. On the other hand, using paper towels from a dispenser is also a safe and hygienic method. Paper towels are often recommended in many food safety guidelines because they can effectively remove remaining pathogens and moisture from hands. Additionally, single-use paper towels eliminate the risk of cross-contamination often associated with reusable fabrics, making them a reliable choice for food safety. Since both air-blow hand dryers and disposable paper towels meet the requirements for effective hand hygiene, it is valid to say that either method is acceptable following handwashing at a handwashing station. This flexibility allows food service operators to choose the option that best fits their specific situation or establishment's practices.