The New Food Handler's Permit Project
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the Food Handlers' Permit Project
- When will the New System be implemented?
- Will my paper card still be valid when the new PVC card program is implemented?
- Where will the New PVC card system be implemented?
- What is the cost of the Permit?
- If I was issued a paper card outside of the parishes implementing the new PVC card system, will it be valid in those parishes?
- How do I replace a lost food handlers' permit?
- Where do I get a Food Handlers' Permit?
- What if I fail the test for the Food Handlers' Permit?
What is the Food Handlers' Permit Project?
The Food Handlers' Permit Project is being carried out by the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), through funding received from the National Health Fund (NHF). Previously, food handlers' permits were issued on card stock paper to which a photograph was attached. The Food Handlers' Permit Project is replacing these paper cards with laminated PVC 'ID-Style' cards.
When will the New System be implemented?
The new system became effective:
- Kingston and St. Andrew in January 2005
- St. Catherine in February 2005
- St. Thomas in February 2005
Will my paper card still be valid when the new PVC card program is implemented?
Yes, paper cards issued before the implementation date of the new system will be valid up to their expiry date. After expiry, they should be replaced with the PVC card.
For permits issued in the South East Region, after the implementation date of the project, only PVC cards will be valid.
Where will the New PVC card system be implemented?
The new system will only be used, initially, in the South East Region, that is, Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Catherine and St. Thomas.
What is the cost of the Permit?
$300 for Student Food Handlers. A fee of $250 is required to replace a lost card.
If I was issued a paper card outside of the parishes implementing the new PVC card system, will it be valid in those parishes?
Yes, a paper permit issued in any parish will be valid in all parishes implementing the new PVC card system.
How do I replace a lost food handlers' permit?
Return to the Health Department and pay a fee of $250. The new card will then be printed from information stored in the system. The permit will be issued with the original expiry date.
Where do I get a Food Handlers' Permit?
Permits can only be gotten from your local Health Deparment.
What if I fail the test for the Food Handlers' Permit?
If you fail the test, you will be given a new appointment for retraining, after which, you will re-sit the test.
