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The Food Worker Class offers options for all learning styles
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Take the class in-person
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Take the class online
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Do you learn better from face-to-face interaction, listening to stories, or asking questions? If so, we encourage you to take the class in-person. Taught live by a local health inspector, the class and test with take about 1.5 hours.
Register for the class by calling
(509) 460 4205..
Best suited for:
Kitchen staff
Staff involved in food preparation
In-person learners
Learners needing assistance or translation
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Want to take the class from the comfort of your own home? For those who prefer a more condensed overview of food safety basics, the online class may be the fit for you. Additionally, the online class offers translation and training in 7 foreign languages.
Take the class, pay, and print at home.Food Worker Card
Best suited for:
Staff at limited menu establishments
Bi-lingual learners
Staff with advanced food safety knowledge
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Food Worker Card Frequently Asked Questions
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The Card
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What is the Card?
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The Food Worker Card is required in Washington State for people that serve unwrapped or certain other foodsto the public.All food workers are required to have a valid Washington State Food Worker Card within 14 days of employment.
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I only pour beverages. Do I need a Card?
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Possibly. If you work in an establishment that serves beverages in re-usable glassware (wine glasses, beer mugs), you will need a Food Worker Card.
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I only work with packaged food. Do I need a card?
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If you work with packaged, perishable food (milk, eggs, meats), you will need a Food Worker Card.
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Can I use a card from another state?
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No. The State of Washington does not accept food worker cards from other states; but cards issued by other counties in Washington State are valid.
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I have an advanced food safety certificate. Do I need a Card?
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Yes, you will still need a Washington State Food Worker Card, even if you have an advanced training certificate, like ServSafe, or 360 training. However, your advanced training may qualify you for a 5 year Card. Bring a copy of your certificate when you attend the class.
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How Much Does it Cost?
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Food Worker Cards cost $10. Payment for the in-person class is by cash ONLY. Those taking the class on-line can pay with a credit or debit card.
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When Will My Card Expire?
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The initial food worker card is valid for two years from the test date. Renewal cards expire three years from the issue date.
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Do I need to attend the training to renew my Card?
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Yes. You must attend the food worker class and pass the test to renew your Card. As long as you renew your Card within one month of its expiration, you will be issued a card for 3 years.
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I lost my Card. Can I get a new copy?
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Duplicate cards can be printed for cards issued in Benton and Franklin Counties. The fee for a duplicate card is $5
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I don’t have a printer, can BFHD print my online card for me?
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Yes, but there is a $5 fee to print your card. To save money, your local library may be willing to help you print the card for free.
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The Class at the Benton-Franklin Health District
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When is the Class?
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Call 509.460.4205 to verify class dates and register.
Annual Calendar for Food Worker Card Classes offered by BFHD
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Do I need to study before the class?
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It’s not required, but if you would like to study ahead, the Washington State Food Worker Manual is available on theWashington State Department of Health website).
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What do I Need to Bring to the Class?
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You will need to bring to class:
- Ten dollars to pay for the card
- Photo ID
- Your old health card (if you are getting a renewal card)
- Proof of advanced food safety training (if you are seeking a 5 year card)
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Where is the Class?
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The class is held at the Benton-Franklin Health District,
7102 w. Okanogan pl. Kennewick WA 99336
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More information
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What About Other Languages?
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We offer the class taught live in Spanish once a month.The class and test are also available in Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Russian by appointment. If needed, you must provide your own translator; we do not have translators available. Call to schedule a time to view the video and take the test.
- Translators are accepted in class and during the examination.
Online training offers 7 foreign languages (Spanish, Russian, Korean, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Cambodian).
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What if I need assistance during the class?
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If requested in advance, a reader can be provided for the test taker with limited reading ability or vision
A "Limited Duty" card is available for people with developmental disabilities that are unable to pass the standard test. Their duties at the food establishment will be restricted.
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Where should I keep my Card?
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Your food worker card is your personal property; keep it in a safe place. Your employer is required to maintain a copy of your food handler's card; a readable photocopy is acceptable and recommended
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