California eFoodHandlers Practice Exam

What describes the proper order of steps for sanitizing equipment?

1. Rinse, wash, air dry, and sanitize

2. Sanitize, wash, rinse, and air dry

3. Wash, rinse, sanitize, and air dry

4. Wash, sanitize, rinse, and air dry

The correct answer is: Wash, rinse, sanitize, and air dry

When sanitizing equipment, it is important to follow the proper order of steps to ensure that all bacteria and germs are removed. Option A is incorrect because it recommends sanitizing first, which would not be effective since there may be dirt or debris on the equipment that needs to be washed away before sanitizing. Option B is also incorrect because washing before sanitizing is important to remove any dirt or debris. Option D is incorrect because it places sanitizing before rinsing, which could lead to residue from the sanitizer being left on the equipment. Therefore, the correct order of steps for sanitizing equipment is to first wash the equipment to remove any dirt or debris, then rinse to remove any remaining residue, then sanitize to kill any remaining bacteria, and finally air dry the equipment to avoid introducing any new germs from a towel or cloth.