What is the minimum lighting requirement for food preparation areas?

The minimum lighting requirement for food preparation areas is established at 50 foot-candles (or 540 lux). This level of illumination is essential to ensure that all tasks involved in food preparation can be conducted safely and accurately. Proper lighting is crucial for visibility, allowing staff to see clearly while they perform critical tasks such as chopping, mixing, and measuring ingredients.

Adequate lighting reduces the risk of accidents and enhances food safety by enabling workers to spot potential hazards, such as foreign objects or unsanitary conditions, during meal preparation. It also supports compliance with health and safety regulations that mandate specific lighting levels in food service establishments. Achieving 50 foot-candles ensures that employees can handle food items effectively without the risk of contamination or injury.