So, be honest, are you still washing your hands to the tune of “Happy birthday”? Themes surrounding the coronavirus pandemic seem to have moved on pretty rapidly since those seemingly innocent days – but the importance of hygiene shouldn’t fall by the wayside.
That is the message marine insurer UK P&I Club is keen to emphasise after issuing a series of tips to encourage galley hygiene.
“In this time of heightened awareness, maintaining the highest levels of hygiene and health standards onboard is critical,” said Markus Westphal, risk assessor. “An extremely important element of this is adhering to best practice guidelines in the galley.”
So, what does Westphal advise?
Among his tips are that it’s important for galley crew to wash hands before handling food; that the range and extractor hood be cleaned daily; that staff should be properly trained in food safety and personal hygiene; and that separate refrigerators be used for raw and cooked food. Door seals and catches should also be checked on a regular basis.
“The Master should inspect the galley and stores for hygiene levels and general housekeeping, which should eliminate any hazards,” he added. “While taking stores, galley crew need to use appropriate techniques when lifting heavy items or loads by bending their knees and keeping their backs straight.
“The galley is one of the most important areas onboard as it provides crew with their necessary daily food and beverages; the quantity and quality of food is important in order to maintain their performance and health. As they are subject to MLC inspections, the galley needs to be of such a high standard to avoid causing the vessel and crew any danger.”
