Food safety in a public health emergency

What is Considered a Public Health Emergency in a Food Service Establishment?

  • Fires
  • Flooding
  • Tornado
  • Power Outages
  • Water Shut Offs
  • Boil Orders or Contaminated Waters
  • Other natural or manmade disasters that affect the food or water supply

What Should Food Operators do to Prepare for Public Health Emergencies?

  • Create emergency action plans and procedures (example:  water emergency plans for how to operate safely during a boil order)
  • Train the Person-in-Charge and all staff on how to respond to  public health emergencies
  • Contact the local health department for emergency specific guidance