This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to handle food safely in the retail environment following organisational food safety procedures and relevant legislation and standard procedures.

It applies to individuals working in roles that involve the handling of food. They operate with some independence under general supervision and guidance from others, and within established organisational policies and procedures and relevant legislative requirements.

Food handlers must comply with the requirements contained within the Australia New Zealand Food Standards (ANZFS) Code (the Code).

The legislative requirement for a business to comply with the national standard for food safety practices, along with training and certification requirements, differ between State and Territory Governments. Those developing training to support this unit must consult the relevant state or territory food safety authority to determine any accreditation arrangements for courses, trainers and assessors.

In some states and territories businesses are required to designate a food safety supervisor who is required to be certified as competent in this unit through a registered training organisation.