Green Cloth Area

Why you need it

A dirty cloth can spread bacteria to every surface it touches. FSA guidance on E. coli highlights cloths as a way bacteria move from raw areas to ready-to-eat ones, and recommends single-use cloths or reusable cloths washed and disinfected between tasks.

Colour-coding cloths by zone makes it easy to see when one has wandered.

What it’s for

A sign marking the green cloth zone: green cloths only, a fresh cloth for each task, no borrowing from other areas, and used cloths removed straight away for washing or disposal. It notes that green is your site rule, not a legal colour code.

How to use it

1. Decide which area green covers, then fix the sign where staff pick up cloths for that zone.
2. Keep a supply of green cloths and a container for used ones right next to the sign.
3. Throw single-use cloths away after each task and send reusable ones for washing and disinfection.
4. Train staff on your cloth colours before they start, and correct anyone who borrows from another zone.
5. Make sure the colours on this sign match your cleaning schedule.