5 compelling reasons why street food caterers must have a handwash unit

A Teal WashStand Xtra mobile handwash unit

NCASS make a convincing case for washing hands with soap and water

For any caterers operating a mobile food outlet or outside catering company, hand washing facilities are an essential, according to an article by The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS)

They list five compelling reasons why caterers should be able to provide a soap and water hand wash both for themselves – and ideally even for their customers.

“1. It’s a legal obligation”
Any food business must have appropriate hand washing facilities says the article. And crucially, hand gels will not do the job effectively.

“Alcohol gels are not acceptable on their own but can be used in addition to a hand washing system.”

“2. You’re less likely to give someone food poisoning”
The maximum penalty for casing an incident of food poisoning is an unlimited fine and potentially 2 years in prison warns NCASS, which also revels that “faecal bacteria are present on 26% of hands in the UK, 14% of banknotes and 10% of credit cards.” That awful statistic speaks for itself…

A street food caterer washing hands with a Handeman Xtra mobile unit
A street food caterer washing hands with a Handeman Xtra mobile unit

“3. You won’t get a good Food Hygiene Rating score”
More people than ever are looking out for that all-important 5 star rating. With a poor one, your business could even be shut down.

“4. It makes customers more likely to buy your food”
NCASS points out that there is really nowhere for a street food provider to hide. Customers can see what they’re doing. A caterer washing their hands frequently will certainly give the right impression!

“5. It improves the image of the industry”
Food events have gained a far sounder reputation over the last few years as a result of food hygiene enforcement and compliance. And, says the article, “demonstrating what best practice looks like in the industry” benefits everyone.

Attain a 5 star hygiene rating with a Teal mobile handwash unit
Attain a 5 star hygiene rating with a Teal mobile handwash unit

Discounts available on mobile handwash units through NCASS

Teal’s comprehensive range of highly portable hand washing units /shop/ meet the most exacting requirements of any Environmental Health Officer. The range includes mains powered and go-anywhere independent units, meaning that a street food supplier can even maintain a five star hygiene rating in the middle of a field!

And it’s good news for NCASS members – they can benefit from an 8% discount from their first order of Teal’s range of go-anywhere handwash units. The offer includes the Super Stallette, WashStand Xtra, and Handeman Xtra Portable.

Find out more about NCASS member discounts » 

About NCASS

The Nationwide Caterers Association is the membership Association for independent food and drink businesses in the UK.

“We understand that legal compliance, safety, and regulatory requirements can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to take the stress out of it and help you achieve the highest standards possible.”

How to become an NCASS member »

5 reasons why you need a hand washing unit »

Five Star food hygiene rated Gower Sea Food Hut use Handeman portable sink for handwashing
Five Star food hygiene rated Gower Sea Food Hut use Handeman portable sink for handwashing