Assessment of Personal Hygiene of Canteen Workers of Government Medical College and Hospital, Solapur

Background: Major risk of food contamination lies with the food handlers. Pathogenic organisms present in or on food handlersa€ body multiply to an infective dose when come in contact with food and could be a potential source of food poisoning to its clients. Methodology: Cross sectional observational study involving all 83 food handlers presently working were included. With structured proforma, details of socio-demographic data, general physical examination for personal hygiene and assessment of knowledge about food hygiene carried out. Results: 45.8% were from 15 to 35 years age group while child labours were found to be 6.0%. Only 28.9% were having good personal hygiene whereas 32.5% were having poor personal hygiene. Commonly observed dermatological morbidities were fungal infection (21.4%), dermatitis (20.4%) and scabies (9.3%). 95.2% were aware about food borne diseases. 86.7% responded that contaminated foods transmit disease. 56.6% responded role of vectors in disease transmission. Conclusion: There is lot of scope for improving the standards of personal hygiene of canteen workers. Owners of establishments should be made aware of importance of pre-placement and periodical medical examination in order to protect the health of consumer.