What should be done if an employee is suspected of having a foodborne illness?

If an employee is suspected of having a foodborne illness, the appropriate action is to send them home and notify a supervisor. This response is critical for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to prevent the potential spread of illness to customers and other staff members, thus ensuring food safety within the establishment. Foodborne illnesses can be highly contagious and can easily be transmitted through contaminated food or surfaces.

Additionally, notifying a supervisor is essential for proper management of the situation. The supervisor can take necessary steps, such as assessing the risk to others, reviewing food handling practices, and implementing cleaning procedures if required. This proactive approach is vital in maintaining public health standards and compliance with health regulations.

In contrast, options like having the employee work from home or allowing them to continue working jeopardize the safety and health of others. Providing over-the-counter medication does not address the core issue of potential contagion and may mask symptoms without offering a proper evaluation of the employee’s health status. Overall, sending the employee home and involving a supervisor aligns with best practices in food safety and employee health management.