According to the ServSafe Manager curriculum and the FDA Food Code, an infected wound, cut, or boil on a food handler's hand or wrist is a potential source ofStaphylococcus aureus. This pathogen is commonly found on the skin and can easily be transferred to food or food-contact surfaces. To mitigate this risk, the wound must be properly contained. The standard requirement is a "double barrier" system: the wound must first be covered with awaterproof, leak-proof bandage(such as a finger cot or rubber stall), and then asingle-use glovemust be worn over the bandage.

If the wound is on the arm, it must be covered with a waterproof bandage, but a glove is not required as the arm does not typically make direct contact with food. However, for wounds on the hand or wrist, the glove is mandatory. This is a "restriction" protocol. The employee can still work with food as long as the wound is completely covered and the barrier is maintained. If the wound cannot be properly covered (for example, if it is persistently oozing or if the employee cannot wear gloves), the PIC mustrestrictthe employee from working with exposed food, clean equipment, or utensils. This procedure ensures that biological contaminants from the infection do not enter the "Flow of Food." Managers must monitor these barriers throughout the shift to ensure the bandage stays dry and the glove remains intact.