EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sarah Brown

Food Safety Certification now required.
(Posted 8/04/03)

The Indiana State Department of Health has issued a new law regarding the certification of food handlers. Effective on January 1, 2005, Rule 410 IAC 7-22, Certification of Food Handler Requirements, states that at least one individual per establishment must be certified in food safety.

Certification for these individuals can be obtained by passing an approved exam. Training is recommended, but not required, before taking this exam in order to ensure a complete understanding of the subject.

Training courses and exams are available only by those who have been approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Presently, only three organizations’ exams are approved by the ANSI. Many organizations throughout the state provide training and examinations through these accredited sources.

One example of an available accredited exam is the ServSafe exam. The exam is composed of 80 multiple choice questions and is offered in seven different languages.  By taking the exam and training through ServSafe, individuals will receive a ServSafe certificate showing completion of the exam, recognition from the International Food Safety Council and permanent registration in the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s national registry.

ServSafe training and examination is $75 per person. This price includes instruction, textbook and the exam. For those wishing to take the exam only, the fee is $30 per person. Certification is good for five years. After five years, re-certification is required.

ServSafe certification courses will be offered on August 23 and August 24 in Indianapolis. 

For more information regarding certification courses and how to register for classes, contact the IBCA for locations nearest you.

 

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