Kitchen Policy

BOARD POLICY

The Kitchen in Pikes Peak Library District exists to help people thrive through providing resources and opportunities in culinary literacy and workforce development. Recognizing that food is a way to build community, the Kitchen offers a place to create connections with others while learning more about health and food safety, as well as gaining skills and confidence in a kitchen setting through guided exploration in classes and programs.

1. District Procedures
   
   1. The Kitchen exists for PPLD programming purposes. Outside reservation of the space is not allowed.
   2. Age limits in the space are determined by the individual program being held.
   3. Patrons or their legal guardians must sign a Food Program Participant Waiver to participate in Kitchen programs.
   4. Using the Kitchen and tools within it can be dangerous. Cuts, burns, foodborne illness, food poisoning, food allergic reactions, and more are all possible. Kitchen tools should be used in a safe manner as instructed.
   5. PPLD provides patrons with access to safety supplies in the Kitchen. Some activities or tools require specific safety gear. All safety gear must be worn as appropriate.
   6. Health and Safety Precautions
      
      1. Hands must be washed before handling food and after instances as sneezing/coughing, bathroom use, handling raw meat, and others as directed by the instructor or staff.
      2. Close-toed shoes are required. Non-slip shoes are strongly recommended.
      3. Long hair must be tied back.
      4. No dangling clothes or jewelry may be worn.
      5. To help us protect the health of our patrons and staff, patrons who are experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness are discouraged from attending our programs until they are feeling better.
   7. Allergies
      
      1. If you have any allergies, reach out to staff in advance of a program to determine if any of those foods will be used in the program.
      2. The Kitchen is not an allergen-free facility and cannot guarantee an allergenfree environment. Be advised we are not a nut-free nor gluten-free kitchen and cross contamination or cross contact from other classes cannot be
         safely avoided.
   8. Patrons should report any tool or piece of equipment that is unsafe or in a state of disrepair. The patron must immediately discontinue use of the tool or equipment and notify PPLD staff.
   9. Patrons should report any accident or incident that occurs to a staff member.
   10. Patrons should report any unsafe behavior by anyone to staff.
   11. By using the space, patrons agree to take precautions to prevent avoidable mess or damage in the Kitchen. Patrons agree to minimize waste of food or other materials.
   12. Food and supplies for programs will be purchased by PPLD. No outside food should be brought into the Kitchen.
   13. Patrons should expect to help with cleanup of the Kitchen as a part of programs and to follow any sanitation guidelines as directed by staff or instructors throughout classes.

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