ServSafe Inmate Training Program

March 2008—The first class of inmates has graduated from the ServSafe Certification Program.

Selected inmates at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center are undergoing intense food safety training in a new life skills program sponsored by the Sheriff's Office and operated by Aramark.

Each class has six inmates. All instruction takes place in the jail kitchen and adjacent training room. Prior to enrollment, potential candidates must be medically screened and be able to read and write. The four-week course is offered six times per year. Costs related to the training are paid by the inmates through their commissary accounts.

ServSafe is the industry’s premiere food safety education and training program recognized and accepted by more federal, state and local health jurisdictions than any other food safety training program. The program covers the flow of food from the time of purchase until the meals reach the customers’ tables, and includes topics such as microorganisms that cause food borne-illness breakouts, proper food storage, and cleaning and sanitizing. The program provides inmates with skills to aid them in life after release, thereby reducing the potential for further criminal activity once they are back in the community.

The Inmate ServSafe Certification Program will culminate with the issuance of the National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Certification exam. This certification will allow them to be more competitive in the food service job market.