How often should high-risk areas be cleaned and sanitized?

• A. As part of a scheduled sanitation plan and between tasks where contamination may occur.
• B. Once a day.
• C. Only after spills.
• D. Never; rely on general cleaning.

Answer: (B)

High-risk areas must be cleaned and sanitized regularly as part of a scheduled sanitation plan and between tasks where contamination may occur. This keeps surfaces, utensils, and equipment free from harmful microbes throughout service, not just at a single time. Having a plan ensures consistent cleaning, and sanitizing between tasks addresses contamination that can happen during handling or swapping between activities. Cleaning only once a day can leave surfaces vulnerable during busy periods, and waiting until spills misses routine contamination. Relying on general cleaning without a structured plan isn’t sufficient to control cross-contamination.