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There is nothing more important than the safe handling of food and the importance of hygiene in today's unpredictable world.

ICE IS FOOD AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS FOOD.

Everyone serving, handling or manufacturing ice, is responsible to ensure the ice is safe, fit for consumption and free of harmful bacteria. 

There are a few ice handling techniques to help prevent contamination of your ice supply:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly and dry hands with disposable paper towel before handling ice.
• Do not touch ice with your bare hands, ALWAYS treat ice as food.
• If required, wear protective clothing - gloves, caps & aprons.
• Avoid handling other materials that may transmit bacteria to the ice, such as tea towels.
• Always use clean and sanitized ice scoops and shovels.
• Hold the ice scoop or shovel by the handle, do not touch parts of the scoop that come into contact with the ice.
• When not in use, make sure the ice scoop/shovel are properly stored to prevent contamination.
• Use labelled, dedicated "Ice Only" containers to prevent them from being used for other purposes.
• If using ice containers, always clean and sanitize before use.
• Store ice containers upside down on a hook to prevent contamination.
• Make sure the ice machine is in good operating condition - routinely inspect machine for cleanliness and schedule regular maintenances. 
• Do not work with ice if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or nausea.
• Avoid storing dirty plates and garbage/recycle bins near ice machines.
• If ice machine is located outside or in an unattended area, be sure to lock it to prevent unauthorized use.
• If using ice bags, do not break up or loosen bags on the floor or other unclean surfaces as the ice may become contaminated.
• Ensure only a minimum number of staff handle the ice.
• Do not return unused ice to the ice machine or ice well etc.

Your reliable partner in the world of ice supply, ensuring you never run out of the essential ingredient for your favorite beverages.

Coast also offer safe handling accessories and specific commercial ice machines to help prevent ice contamination. Contact Coast today!