Food handler education is the most effective method in preventing food born illnesses. According to the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care Food Safety Protocol, it is highly recommended “that a minimum of one operator and food handler each be certified, and at least one certified food handler be present in the food premises at all times during operation”. The Timiskaming Health Unit offers Food Handler Certification Courses designed to provide food premises operators with the basic knowledge and skills they need to comply with safe food handling and sanitation practices required by the Ministry. The course aims to compliment the ongoing promotional and inspection activities of our Health Unit.

There are three ways to become certified - full day course, home study or on-site training: 

  1. Full day course: classroom workshop and examination at the Timiskaming Health Unit. Each course is approximately 5 hours long.
  2. On-site training: workshop can be scheduled at your premises for groups of ten or more.
  3. Home study: study at home and take examination at the Timiskaming Health Unit. You can obtain our printed study guide in English at the Food Safety training locations. Self-study exams are held at our office locations by an appointment.
It is highly recommended that you review the manual prior to the course in preparation for the exam. A passing mark of 70% on the exam is required for your certificate. Certificates are valid for five years and are recognized throughout Ontario.Study manuals are available in English and French. To register for the next Food Handler Certification course call your local Timiskaming Health Unit office:
New Liskeard
705-647-4305
1-866-747-4305
247 Whitewood Ave., Unit 43
Englehart
705-544-2221
1-877-544-2221
63 Fifth St.
Kirkland Lake
705-567-9355
1-866-967-9355
31 Station Rd. N.

 

Other Study Options 

Ministry of Health and Long Term Care - Food Handler Training and Certification 

 

Food Handler certificate obtained from another Ontario health unit or from another recognized certification agency is valid at the Timiskaming Health Unit.

 

 

 

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