Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

How much light should there be in a utensil storage area?

1. 10 foot-candles of light

2. 15 foot-candles of light

3. 20 foot-candles of light

4. 25 foot-candles of light

The correct answer is: 20 foot-candles of light

The recommended amount of light in a utensil storage area is 20 foot-candles. This level of illumination is deemed sufficient for ensuring that staff can safely and efficiently locate and handle utensils. Adequate lighting helps to prevent accidents, improves visibility for hygiene checks, and enhances overall operational efficiency in food service areas. In a setting where utensils are stored, it's crucial that workers can clearly see to avoid cross-contamination or mishandling of kitchen items. Insufficient lighting could lead to errors in selection and could hinder effective cleaning processes, directly impacting food safety and the overall environment. Thus, the standard of 20 foot-candles strikes a balance between brightness and energy efficiency, aligning with health and safety guidelines.