If you work in the food service industry in Ontario, you may be wondering whether food handler safety training is required. The province doesn’t mandate certification for every food handler, but many local health units enforce strict regulations, meaning certification is often necessary.
Ontario’s Food Safety Regulations
Food premises in Ontario are governed by Ontario Regulation 493/17 under the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA). However, the province does not require province-wide food handler certification. Instead, local public health units set their own rules.
Most health units, including Toronto, Peel, York, and others, require at least one certified food handler to be on-site during operating hours in food service establishments. Some regions may require multiple certified staff depending on the size of the operation.
Failure to comply can lead to:
- On‑the‑spot fines starting at $385 per infraction
- Re‑inspection fees
- Temporary closure orders for repeat offences
- Reputational damage that is difficult (and costly) to repair
Who Needs Food Handler Certification in Ontario?
Food handler certification is essential for employees who handle, prepare, or serve food and drinks, supervises food‑service staff, develops or implements food‑safety programs, as well as transports or stores food for retail sale.
Typical workplaces include:
- Restaurants, cafes, and bars
- Catering companies & event services
- Hospitals, long-term care facilities & healthcare cafeterias
- Schools, daycares & university dining halls
- Food manufacturing & retail (grocery stores, bakeries, etc.)
- Supervisors & managers in food service
Even if certification isn’t strictly required in your area, many employers prefer or require it to ensure compliance and reduce risks.
Why Get Certified Even When It’s Not Mandatory?
Beyond regulatory compliance, certification delivers clear business advantages:
- Reduced risk of food‑borne illness outbreaks and liability claims
- Streamlined inspections—certified staff understand inspectors’ expectations
- Improved operational efficiency through standardized procedures
- Enhanced customer confidence and brand reputation
- Professional growth and employability for staff
How to Get Certified in Ontario
The easiest way to get certified is by taking an online Food Handler Certification course that meets Ontario’s public health standards. At Worksite Safety, our course is:
- Approved by Ontario health units
- Self-paced and 100% online
- You receive instant certification upon passing
Food Handler Certification Made Easy!
By staying informed and certified, you contribute to a safer food industry while advancing your professional skills. Enroll today and get your Food Handler Certification!