What is lead poisoning?
Lead poisoning occurs when too much lead accumulates in the body. Lead is a metallic element that can be absorbed [...]
Could I be fined if I do not register my mattress refurbishing business?
Yes. Failure to register may result in a case being brought to the Environmental Health Hearing Officer. If a defendant [...]
Can my registration be suspended or revoked?
Yes. If the Health Authority finds sufficient cause based upon a complaint investigation, the Health Authority. Correction of the issues [...]
Are there limitations as to where I can source my mattresses?
Yes. No articles or materials obtained from public dump grounds, junkyards or hospitals may be reused in the manufacturing, making [...]
Are there any general facility requirements?
Yes. All premises, rooms, chambers and devices used for the purpose of disinfection / sterilization must be kept in a [...]
What methods of sterilization/disinfection are approved for use?
Thorough washing and disinfection/sterilization by prolonged boiling for at least 1 hour. Steam delivered at equal to or greater than [...]
What is included in the term “bedding”?
Mattresses, mattress pads, quilted pads , bunk quilts, comforters, pillows, sheets, blankets, and any other contaminated or soiled article of [...]
Where can I get more information about repellents?
For more information about using repellents, please consult the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website or consult the National Pesticide [...]
Can I use an insect repellent and a product containing sunscreen at the same time? What are the recommendations for combination sunscreen/insect repellent products?
Insect Repellents containing DEET and Sunscreen Yes. People can, and should, use both a sunscreen [...]
Can insect repellents be used by pregnant or nursing women?
Other than the routine precautions noted earlier, the EPA does not recommend any additional precautions for using registered repellents on [...]
How else can I protect children from mosquito bites?
Using repellents on the skin is not the only way to avoid mosquito bites. Children (and adults) can wear clothing [...]
What guidelines are available for using a repellent on children?
Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent: When using repellent on a child, apply it [...]
Can insect repellents be used on children?
Repellent products must state any age restriction. If there is none, EPA has not required a restriction on the use [...]
What are some reactions to be aware of when using insect repellents?
Use of repellent products may cause skin reactions in rare cases. Most products also note that eye irritation can occur [...]
What are some general considerations to remember when using insect repellents?
Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label. Use enough repellent to cover exposed skin or clothing. Don't apply [...]
Where can I find these repellents?
Most of these repellents are sold at multiple retail, discount and drug stores. A wider selection may be available at [...]
What is permethrin?
Certain products which contain permethrin are recommended for use on clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear, and are registered [...]
How can you know which active ingredient a product contains?
Check the product label if you have questions-–repellents must specify their active ingredients. In some cases you will note the [...]
How does the percentage of active ingredient in a product relate to the amount of protection it gives?
Typically, the more active ingredient a product contains the longer it provides protection from mosquito bites. The concentration of different [...]
Which mosquito repellents work best?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using products that have been shown to work in scientific trials [...]
How does mosquito repellent work?
Female mosquitoes bite people and animals because they need the protein found in blood to help develop their eggs. Mosquitoes [...]
How often should repellent be reapplied?
In general you should re-apply repellent if you are being bitten by mosquitoes. Always follow the directions on the product [...]
When should I use mosquito repellent?
Apply repellent when you are going to be outdoors. Even if you don’t notice mosquitoes there is a good chance [...]
Why should I use insect repellent?
Insect repellents can help reduce exposure to mosquitoes that may carry viruses such as West Nile virus, which can cause [...]
If a person contracts West Nile virus, does that person develop a natural immunity to future infection by the virus?
It is assumed that immunity will be lifelong; however, it may wane in later years. For more information access the [...]
How long does the West Nile virus remain in a person’s body after they are infected?
There is no scientific evidence indicating that people can be chronically infected with West Nile virus. What remain in a [...]
How does West Nile virus actually cause severe illness and death in humans?
Following transmission by an infected mosquito, West Nile virus multiplies in the person's blood system and crosses the blood-brain [...]
Can you get WNV from eating game birds or animals that have been infected?
There is no evidence West Nile virus can be transmitted to humans through consuming infected birds or animals. In keeping [...]
Can you get infected with West Nile virus by caring for an infected horse?
West Nile virus is transmitted by infectious mosquitoes. There is no documented evidence of person-to-person or animal-to-person transmission of West [...]
Can you get West Nile virus directly from birds?
There is no evidence that a person can get the virus from handling live or dead infected birds. However, persons [...]
How many types of animals have been found to be infected with West Nile virus?
Although the vast majority of infections have been identified in birds, West Nile virus has been shown to infect horses, [...]
Besides mosquitoes, can you get West Nile virus directly from other insects or ticks?
Infected mosquitoes are the primary source for West Nile virus. Although ticks infected with West Nile virus have been found [...]
Is a woman’s pregnancy at risk if she gets infected with West Nile virus?
There is one documented case of transplacental (mother-to-child) transmission of WNV in a human. Although the newborn in this case [...]
Can you get West Nile encephalitis from another person?
No. West Nile encephalitis is not transmitted from person-to-person. For example, you cannot get West Nile virus from touching or [...]
If I live in an area where birds or mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been reported and a mosquito bites me, am I likely to get sick?
No. Even in areas where the virus is circulating, very few mosquitoes are infected with the virus. Even if the [...]
How do people get infected with West Nile virus (WNV)?
The main route of human infection with West Nile virus is through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become [...]
Should people take the West Nile virus vaccine that is licensed for use in horses?
No. This vaccine has not been studied in humans and could be harmful. The effectiveness of this vaccine in preventing [...]
Is there a vaccine available to protect humans from West Nile virus?
No. Currently there is no West Nile virus vaccine available for humans. Many scientists are working on this issue, [...]
How long has West Nile virus been in the U.S.?
It is not known how long it has been in the U.S., but CDC scientists believe the virus has probably [...]
What are West Nile encephalitis, West Nile meningitis and “neuroinvasive disease” and West Nile fever?
The most severe type of disease due to a person being infected with West Nile virus is sometimes called “neuroinvasive [...]
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a flavivirus commonly found in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East. It is closely related [...]
Are health club attendants required to get a food handler safety training card?
Health club attendants do not need a food handler safety training card unless they meet the definition of a food [...]
Are aestheticians required to get a food handler safety training card?
Aestheticians do not need a food handler safety training card unless they meet the definition of a food handler [...]
Are reflexologists required to get a food handler safety training card?
Reflexologists do not need a food handler safety training card unless they meet the definition of a food handler as [...]
Are massage therapists required to get a food handler safety training card?
Massage therapists do not need a food handler safety training card unless they meet the definition of a food handler [...]
Are child care employees required to get a food handler safety training card?
The health district does not require child care employees to be screened for tuberculosis, get any vaccinations or get a [...]
Are barbers required to get a food handler safety training card?
The health district does not require barbers to be screened for tuberculosis, does not require them to get any vaccinations, [...]
Are adult group care employees required to get a food handler safety training card?
Adult group care employees do not need a food handler safety training card and do not need to get any [...]
Are food handlers required to get a food handler safety training card?
Yes, any person employed as a food handler, must get a food handler safety training card. They are not required [...]
I currently have a food handler category health card. When do I need to get a food handler safety training card?
You will need to get a food handler safety training card before your current health card expires.
Why was the Health Card program discontinued?
After a thorough review of the health card requirements and the applicable codes, statutes and regulations, the program was brought [...]
Where can I get the infectious disease transmission training?
The health district requires that all Body Art Card holders receive infectious disease training, such as the Preventing Disease Transmission training offered by the American Red Cross. You must complete the training within 30 days of passing the health district exam. Visit the American Red Cross webpage for information on their course.
What are the requirements for the Body Art Card? Are they different from a health card?
You no longer need a health card, but the Body Art Card ensures that you meet certain requirements. You do not need TB screening or any immunizations, however, the health district recommends that you review your hepatitis A/B immunization status.
When do the cards expire?
Your card will be good for two years. If you are an apprentice, you must provide proof that you have completed at least six months of training in a licensed establishment, you must be 18, you must pass an exam with a minimum score of 70 percent, and provide a letter of employment to receive a permanent card.
How much are the cards?
The fee is $138 ($118 exam fee plus $20 card fee). The renewal is $20. An additional $15 late fee will be applied to card renewals that have expired.
What is the difference between the Body Art Card and the Body Art Apprentice card?
Health district regulations require that body art staff meet certain requirements, including six months of training in a licensed establishment, they must be 18, must have completed infectious disease training, and pass an exam with a minimum score of 70 percent.
How do I get a Body Art Card or the Body Art Apprenticeship Card?
New applicants, including apprentices, must complete the application and exam in person at the Southern Nevada Health District’s Main Public Health Center (map & directions).
What is a potentially hazardous food (PHF)?
The food regulations define a potentially hazardous food as a food that requires temperature control (TCS) to limit pathogenic microorganism [...]
What’s included in a risk control plan?
The plan identifies a specific risk factor and provides for simple control measures, which can be integrated daily into the [...]
What types of hazards are addressed in risk control plans?
Risk control plans typically address uncontrolled, food safety hazards that are procedural or behavioral. Examples include time/temperature compliance, a food [...]
When should a Risk Control Plan be developed?
During a health inspection, if a violation is observed, it is documented on the report with a corrective action. If [...]
What is the difference between a major and a minor remodel?
Major Remodels A submittal to the health district for a major remodel will be required whenever a proposed remodel [...]
What constitutes a “like-for-like” equipment change?
A “like-for-like” equipment change is the replacement of equipment for similar equipment in design, function, use and maintenance, whether or [...]
What types of work in a food establishment is considered remodeling?
Remodeling may include the construction, alteration or installation of new equipment, modification of existing equipment or fixtures, changes in floor [...]
If my business needed to close, when can I resume operations?
You need to obtain approval from the health district to reopen. Ensure that the imminent health hazard has been corrected [...]
Can I still operate during a power outage?
It depends. If the interruption of power service is for a short time and you closely monitor food, equipment and [...]
What do I do if I lose power at my food establishment?
Investigate the cause. Is your business the only one without power or are there other area businesses affected? Contact NV [...]
Where can I find health district regulations regarding pest control?
The 2010 Regulations Governing the Sanitation of Food Facilities address pest control in several places. These include the following sections: [...]
How long do I need to keep my treatment records?
Maintain records available for review by the health district for two years.
Does it matter what type of bait station I use?
Yes, rodent bait must be contained in a covered, tamper-resistant bait station. Uncovered snap style traps are not allowed inside [...]
Can I use tracking powders?
As specified in section 7.206.13 of the 2010 Regulations Governing the Sanitation of Food Facilities, the use of tracking powder, [...]
Does it matter where my fly light is located?
Yes, fly lights should be located in an area that will not cause contamination to food. They must not be [...]
What kind of pesticides can I use?
Any pesticides that are applied must be approved by the State of Nevada Department of Agriculture for use in a [...]
Can I apply pest treatment at my food establishment?
If you choose to do the work yourself, you must meet the requirements listed in section 7-206.11 of the 2010 [...]
Who can help me with pest control?
The health district does not recommend any one pest control company. There are many licensed companies/certified pest control operators that [...]
What can I do to prevent pests in my facility?
A good way to prevent pests is to deny their access to your facility and to deny them food and [...]
Why do I need pest control at my facility?
There are many pests that can contaminate food and spread disease through food to customers. A few examples of pests [...]
What are my responsibilities?
As a food establishment operator you are required to maintain effective pest control measures in your facility. This includes: Preventing [...]
What are the duties of the PIC?
The duties of a PIC are described in Section 2-104.11. The PIC needs to ensure: Food establishment operations are [...]
What does the PIC need to know?
The PIC needs to know food safety specific to the food operation, know the associated regulations and be able [...]
When should there be a PIC at the facility?
The permit holder should plan wisely when making determinations regarding designation of the PIC: A PIC must be present at [...]
Who is the person in charge?
As outlined in Section 2-101.11 of the 2010 Regulations Governing the Sanitation of Food Establishments (regulations), the permit holder [...]
Where can I get more information?
The FDA’s “Fish and Fisheries Products Hazards and Controls Guidance” document contains detailed information regarding parasite destruction in chapter 5. [...]
What records do I need to keep?
Fish that are treated for parasites (frozen) by the food establishment: Records documenting the freezing temperature and time to [...]
What are the requirements for parasite destruction?
Except for fish listed in regulation 3-402.11B, fish that are served raw or partially cooked must be subjected to [...]
What raw and undercooked fish does parasite destruction apply to?
Parasite destruction applies to all raw and undercooked fish except those listed in regulation 3-402.11B (see below). The 2010 [...]
Why is parasite destruction necessary?
All living organisms, including fish, can have parasites. Parasites are a natural occurrence and are not necessarily due to [...]
When can I resume operations?
Before resuming operations, you will need to ensure that the imminent health hazard has been corrected and that all items [...]
What should I do if an imminent health hazard occurs at my food establishment?
Immediately notify the health district and voluntarily discontinue operations. The health district will discuss the hazard with you and may [...]
What is an imminent health hazard?
An imminent health hazard is a condition that can significantly cause harm or serious illness to you, your customers or [...]
When does the health district close an establishment?
A closure takes place when an establishment has 41 or more demerits, an imminent health hazard requiring closure, or failed [...]
What does the grade card mean?
“A” grade: The establishment has earned between 0-10 demerits on their last inspection. “B” and “C” Downgrades: “B” grade [...]
Is a health card or food safety training the same as Person-In Charge Training?
No. A person-in-charge (PIC) of a food establishment is not only responsible for how he or she handles food, [...]
What requirements does a person need to complete before working as a food handler in Southern Nevada?
Before a person begins employment in a food establishment, he or she must successfully complete online food safety training in [...]
What can I do if my menu currently does not include a consumer advisory?
Menus without a consumer advisory will be in compliance by doing one of the following: Reprint the menu to include [...]
What if my food establishment offers raw or undercooked food for customer self-service?
If your food establishment offers animal products that are raw or undercooked in places such as buffets, salad bars, sushi [...]
What food items do not need a disclosure?
The disclosure is only for animal foods that can be served raw or undercooked. Menu items that will always be [...]
How do I provide a consumer advisory?
The consumer advisory consists of two parts: a reminder and disclosure (3-603.11 A). The goal of the reminder (3-603.11 [...]
Does my food establishment need to provide a consumer advisory?
A consumer advisory is only required if you offer menu items containing raw or undercooked animal products to customers, [...]