Single-use gloves help prevent contamination of ready-to-eat food — but only if you change them at the right times. Here are the rules the exam tests.
When to change your gloves
- Before starting a different task
- After handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood and before touching ready-to-eat food
- At least every 4 hours of continuous use
- As soon as they become dirty or torn
- After touching your face, hair, or body
- After taking out the trash, handling money, or cleaning
- After coughing, sneezing, or eating
Gloves don’t replace handwashing
Always wash your hands before putting on gloves. Gloves can still spread germs if you wear them too long or use the same pair for different tasks. They are a barrier, not a substitute for clean hands.
On your exam: remember the 4-hour maximum for continuous glove use and that you must wash hands first.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you change single-use gloves?
At least every 4 hours of continuous use, and immediately when switching tasks, after handling raw food, or when gloves are dirty or torn.
Do gloves replace handwashing?
No. You must wash your hands before putting gloves on; gloves are a barrier, not a substitute for clean hands.
Ready to test yourself? Take our free food handler practice test (instant answers and explanations), or review the full food handler study guide.