Where must hand wash sinks be provided in a food establishment?

Hand wash sinks must be specifically provided in food preparation areas to facilitate proper handwashing practices among food workers. This is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses. When preparing food, employees may handle raw ingredients, such as meat and vegetables, which can introduce harmful pathogens if hands are not washed appropriately.

In food prep areas, having designated hand wash sinks ensures that workers can easily access them, encouraging frequent handwashing at critical times, such as after handling raw foods or before touching ready-to-eat items. This placement is crucial for compliance with food safety regulations and creating a safe food handling environment.