Hepatitis A Prevention Guide for Denver Food Service

Denver Health Department Regulations & Hepatitis A Requirements

The Denver Public Health & Environment enforces food safety rules aligned with FDA Food Code standards, with specific Hepatitis A prevention mandates. Food establishments must maintain documented handwashing procedures, exclude ill employees, and conduct regular health inspections. Denver requires managers to complete food protection certification that includes pathogen knowledge. For Hepatitis A specifically, DPHEP mandates immediate notification if an employee tests positive, and facilities must cooperate with contact tracing. Non-compliance can result in operational suspension and fines. Review the current Denver food service rules at denvergov.org/pocketgov/services for the most recent requirements.

Critical Sanitation & Handwashing Protocols

Hepatitis A is transmitted via fecal-oral route and survives common sanitizers better than many pathogens—handwashing with soap and warm water for 20+ seconds is the primary defense. Denver facilities must install accessible handwashing stations in restrooms and food prep areas with hot/cold running water, soap, and single-use towels. Chemical sanitizers (bleach solutions at 200 ppm or quaternary ammonia at 400 ppm) are required for high-touch surfaces and restrooms, but handwashing remains the most effective barrier. Train staff on the eight critical steps: wet hands, apply soap, rub for 20 seconds, rinse thoroughly, dry with paper towels, turn off water with towel, and avoid cross-contamination. Document daily sanitation logs and review them during shift changes.

Employee Health Screening & Exclusion Policies

Denver food service must establish written employee health policies that screen for Hepatitis A symptoms: jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and diarrhea lasting more than a few hours. The FDA Food Code (adopted by Denver) requires exclusion of employees with vomiting or diarrhea until symptoms resolve plus 24 hours without treatment, or medical clearance is provided. Hepatitis A specifically warrants extended exclusion periods—consult with Denver Public Health if an employee reports or tests positive for Hepatitis A. Implement daily health attestations, especially for high-risk staff handling ready-to-eat foods. Never pressure sick employees to work; provide clear procedures for reporting illness and alternative job assignments. Document all health-related exclusions in personnel files for inspection compliance.

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