Which practice is included in sanitation audit criteria?

• A. Handwashing compliance
• B. Storage temperatures
• C. Pest control
• D. Cleaning schedules

Answer: (A)

Handwashing compliance is included in sanitation audit criteria because it directly prevents contamination. Inspectors look for visible evidence that staff wash hands at the right times, with access to functioning sinks, soap, and proper drying, and that staff are trained to follow hygiene procedures. This is a practical, observable behavior that immediately impacts food safety by stopping pathogens from moving between surfaces and people.

Other elements like storage temperatures, pest control, and cleaning schedules are also important parts of a comprehensive program, but they are typically verified through different records and systems (temperature logs, pest-management records, cleaning checklists) and thus aren’t the chief, directly observable practice auditors focus on for sanitation behavior.