How long must food handlers stay off work after sickness or diarrhoea?

The 48-hour rule

Count from when the last symptom stopped, not from when it started. Someone whose sickness ended at 8pm on Monday can come back at 8pm on Wednesday at the earliest.

What staff must tell their manager

• If they have diarrhoea or vomiting.
• If anyone they live with has diarrhoea or vomiting.

What managers should do

• Make sure every member of staff knows the rule before their first shift.
• Send anyone with symptoms home straight away, even if they feel well enough to work.
• Record the dates, so you can show when they were fit to come back.
• When they return, remind them about thorough handwashing.