Planning an upcoming festival or event?  The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department can help.

• Provide a list of permitted food vendors
• Discuss vendor permits and inspections with new operations
• Assist with mass gathering permitting
• Assistance with Temporary Food Permits
• Provide Food Handler Training
• Inspect Food operations prior and during the event

In West Virginia, a Food Handler Card belongs to the individual worker, verifying they know safe food-handling practices. A Food Establishment Permit belongs to the business or operation, authorizing the physical location to legally operate and provide food to the public

Food Safety Program (Health Permits)

In West Virginia Food Establishments are governed by WV Legislative Rule 64CSR17.  The new Rule adopts the 2013 US FDA model Food Code.  Under this rule County Health Departments regulate restaurants, retail food stores, schools, hospitals, bars, day care centers, and any other establishment dealing with food.  Also under this rule, the County Health Department will regulate Temporary Food Establishments located at fairs, festivals, roadside stands, etc.

Food Safety Training (Food Handler’s Card)

In addition to the required Health Permit to operate, establishments must insure that all food service workers obtain a Food Handler’s Card.  Food Handler Classes are for those working with food and food service. The health department requires all food service workers to have a current food handler card, issued by the health department.

• This course is required for all employees that handle food and/or wash dishes.
• The purpose of this course is to reduce food borne illness and teach sanitary food practices.
• The course covers proper food handling practices that are required under the 2013 FDA Food Code.
• Employees must obtain a valid food service worker card within thirty (30) days of hire.
• A copy of this card must be kept at the place of employment.
• Class size is limited.

The 2013 US Food Code requires all food establishments in Ohio County, to maintain employment of a person who has successfully completed a Certified Food Protection Manager Training.  The Health Department has partnered with WVNCC to offer this training.  Call WVNCC (304) 214-8968 or visit https://wvncc.coursestorm.com for more information.

Volunteer Food Service Worker’s cards are issued at no cost to individuals working in volunteer settings. These individuals receive no pay and the cards cannot be used in a paid food service setting. Volunteer cards are good for 1 year.

The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department has partnered with www.statefoodsafety.com and www.TAPSeries.com to offer online food service worker classes for purchase. Individuals whose schedules do not allow them to attend our in-person classes should do one of these as an alternative. (Additional fees apply)

Registration and fee (2-year card $10, 2-year Statewide card $20) must be paid prior to the day of the class. Classes are held at the City/County Building, 1st floor. Pre-registration is required for the class. Call (304) 234-3682.