Which of the following should food handlers do before starting work?

Food handlers should wash their hands before starting work to prevent the spread of contaminants and ensure food safety. Handwashing is a critical practice in the food service industry, as it removes dirt, bacteria, and other pathogens that may be present on the hands. This practice significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, protecting both the food being prepared and the customers consuming it.

Washing hands is typically recommended in several key moments, such as after using the restroom, before handling food, after handling raw ingredients, or after any activity that may contaminate the hands. By prioritizing handwashing before they begin food preparation, food handlers contribute to maintaining high hygiene standards within the establishment.

As for the other options, while they may also be important aspects of working in the food industry—taking a shower maintains personal hygiene, putting on a uniform reinforces professionalism and cleanliness, and sanitizing the work area is crucial for ensuring a safe food prep environment—none of these directly address the immediate need to remove potential contaminants from hands before engaging in food handling activities.