ICTQual Level 1 award Health and Safety in Food Service
The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in Food Service is a professionally developed course that provides learners with essential knowledge and skills to maintain safe practices in food handling environments. Designed in line with international food safety standards, this one-day programme offers a comprehensive introduction to core principles of hygiene and hazard control in the food industry.
Health and safety are vital components of every food service setting. Whether in a commercial kitchen, catering business, or institutional food service, maintaining a hygienic and hazard-free environment is non-negotiable. The ICTQual Level 1 Award focuses on equipping learners with a foundational understanding of food safety risks and the preventative measures that must be applied in day-to-day operations.
One of the main advantages of this award is its alignment with recognised safety standards within the food industry. It serves as a stepping stone for further professional development in food safety, opening the door to more advanced qualifications. Employers highly value candidates who have formal training in health and safety, especially those who can demonstrate an understanding of basic risk management and hygiene procedures.
Ensuring health and safety in food service is not just a legal obligation but a moral one. The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in Food Service helps learners understand and meet these responsibilities from day one. With concise, focused training and a commitment to industry standards, this qualification represents an excellent starting point for anyone seeking to build a responsible and rewarding career in food service.
Level 1 award Health and Safety in Food Service
To enrol in the ICTQual Level 1 award Health and Safety in Food Service, learners must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 14 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Educational Background: There are no formal academic qualifications required; however, learners should have basic literacy skills to understand safety instructions, labels, and written guidance.
- Experience: Experience: No prior experience in food service is required. This course is suitable for individuals who are new to the industry or those working under supervision in roles involving food handling.
- English Language Competency: Learners should possess basic English reading, writing, and comprehension skills to understand training materials and participate in assessments.
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 1 award Health and Safety in Food Service, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Food Safety and Personal Hygiene
- Basic Cleaning, Disinfection, and Waste Handling
- Cross-Contamination Prevention in Food Handling
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Introduction to Food Safety and Personal Hygiene
- Understand the importance of food safety in preventing foodborne illnesses
- Identify common food safety hazards in food service environments
- Demonstrate the principles of good personal hygiene in food handling
- Recognise the responsibilities of food handlers in maintaining hygiene standards
Basic Cleaning, Disinfection, and Waste Handling
- Differentiate between cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting procedures
- Apply appropriate methods for cleaning food contact surfaces and equipment
- Identify correct storage and disposal procedures for waste and food by-products
- Understand the role of effective cleaning in preventing contamination and pests
Cross-Contamination Prevention in Food Handling
- Define cross-contamination and identify its sources
- Demonstrate safe practices for separating raw and ready-to-eat foods
- Apply correct procedures for equipment, utensil, and surface usage
- Understand the importance of handwashing and glove use in preventing cross-contamination
The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in Food Service provides a strong foundation for advancing in the food and hospitality sector. After completing this course, learners can explore the following progression opportunities:
Academic Pathways
- Enroll in the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Food Safety and Hygiene for deeper knowledge of food handling and hygiene regulations.
- Progress to certifications like HACCP, ISO 22000, or Level 2 Health and Safety for more technical and supervisory roles.
- Pursue hospitality or catering diplomas to expand into broader food service management.
Career Development
- Qualify for entry-level roles such as kitchen assistant, food handler, or catering assistant.
- With further training, move into supervisory positions such as food safety supervisor or health and safety officer.
- Apply your skills in various settings including restaurants, schools, hospitals, and food production facilities.
This course serves as a stepping stone for both academic growth and professional advancement in the food service industry.
