Texas Food Safety Managers Practice Test

Which statement is correct regarding outdoor waste containers?

1. They must be made of anti-rust material.

2. They should be cleaned inside and out annually.

3. They must have tight-fitting lids.

4. They should be marked with disposal instructions.

The correct answer is: They must have tight-fitting lids.

The correct statement regarding outdoor waste containers is that they must have tight-fitting lids. This is important for a couple of reasons. First, tight-fitting lids help to prevent pests, such as insects and rodents, from accessing the waste material. This is particularly crucial in food service environments, where attracting pests can lead to potential food safety issues and health code violations. Additionally, tight-fitting lids protect the contents from the elements, such as rain and wind, which can cause spills and create unsanitary conditions around the disposal area. While it is important for waste containers to be made of durable, corrosion-resistant material, and for them to be cleaned regularly, these aspects do not address the immediate need for containment and sanitation that tight-fitting lids provide. Marking containers with disposal instructions can benefit proper waste management but does not directly impact the prevention of contamination or pest attraction as effectively as an appropriately fitted lid.