A food handler permit, also known as a food safety certificate, allows restaurants to safely serve food. The Oregon Food Handler Card is a certification restaurant employees need to stay compliant with State and County regulations, ensuring food safety and hygienic practices.

In this article, we’ll explore who needs a food handler card in Oregon, how to obtain one, and what to do if it expires.

Oregon Food Safety

Ensuring that your establishment remains compliant with food safety regulations is a continuous process that requires vigilance and a commitment to high standards. The Oregon Health Authority oversees the enforcement of these regulations, and it's essential for food service employees to stay up to date with the rules. 

To stay compliant, regularly review and update your food safety practices. This includes ensuring all staff members have completed proper food safety and protocol education. Training and certification ensure that individuals are equipped with the knowledge to handle food safely, thereby protecting the community from potential health risks.

Key aspects of proper food handling include:

• Prevention of cross-contamination: Ensuring separate areas for raw and cooked items to avoid the spread of pathogens.
• Allergen awareness: Recognizing and preventing cross-contact with allergens to provide a safe dining experience for those with dietary restrictions.
• Personal hygiene: Maintaining good handwashing practices, avoiding bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods, and excluding ill employees from handling food.

Who Needs a Food Handler Card in Oregon? 

Every employee who prepares or serves food in the state of Oregon must have a valid Food Handler Card. This includes bartenders, wait staff, cooks, and chefs. Managers who have completed their Food Manager Training certificate are exempt from having to receive a food handler card. 

The benefits of obtaining a food handler card include:

• Enhanced knowledge: The training equips you with critical skills in safe food handling, storage, and preparation ensuring you're well-versed in best practices.
• Reduced risk of illnesses: A strong understanding of food safety minimizes the chances of foodborne illnesses, protecting both employees and patrons.
• Legal adherence: In Oregon, holding a valid Food Handler Card is a legal requirement, demonstrating your compliance with state regulations.

The Oregon Food Handler Card

Oregon law requires all food service employees to obtain a food handler card within 30 days of beginning their work. To get a food handler’s card, employees must pass the food safety exam with a score of 75% or higher. The course takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and costs $10. 

If an employee loses their card, they may purchase a replacement by contacting the Local Environmental Health Office and paying an additional $5. 

The training for a Food Handler Card covers essential topics such as:

• Identifying potential hazards in food preparation and cross-contamination 
• Knowing which illnesses managers should be notified of
• Learning the correct temperatures for storing and cooking food
• Maintaining a clean environment for food preparation and service

Important note: Out-of-state food handler cards are not valid in Oregon. If someone has their California food handler card, they’ll still have to obtain a valid Oregon certificate. 

When Do Oregon Food Handler Cards Expire?

Food handler cards are generally valid for a few years. In Oregon, certifications are valid for three years. After the expiration date, employees must renew their cards by completing the food handler test again.

How to Get an Oregon Food Handler Certificate

Obtaining your Oregon Food Handler Card online is a straightforward process that ensures employees are well-versed in food safety practices. 

1. Enroll: Register for an accredited food safety education program. The first step is to enroll in an accredited food safety education program. These programs cover essential topics such as hygiene, cross-contamination, and proper food storage. 
2. Complete the Course: Study the provided materials via computer, tablet, or smartphone. The course is available in over five languages.
3. Pass the Exam: After completing the course, employees will need to pass an online exam to demonstrate their understanding of the material. They’ll have two attempts to receive a passing score of 75% or higher. 
4. Print: Download and print your Food Handler Card. It's important to note that you must acquire this certification within 30 days of starting work in any food service establishment. The card is typically valid for a few years, after which you'll need to renew it to maintain compliance with state regulations.

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