Education & Training Opportunities
The Ottawa County Department of Public Health offers many opportunities for education and training so restaurant and kitchen staff are trained in safe food handling practices.
ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
The ServSafe®Food Protection Manager Certification class and exam fulfills the Certified Manager requirement outlined in the Michigan Food Law (MFL.289.2129). The class is approximately 8 hours long, followed by an exam session. Students will learn in-depth food safety principles that will equip them to safely manage a kitchen. Cost is $150.00 and includes class, book, and exam.
2023/2024 ServSafe Schedule
All classes and exams will be held at:
Ottawa County Department of Health & Human Services
12185 James Street
Holland, MI 49424
Macatawa Conference Room
Registration can be made by calling (616) 393-5645.
| Date | Time |
|---|---|
| Tuesday, July 10, 2024 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Tuesday, August 13, 2024 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Monday, September 16, 2024* | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm |
| Tuesday, September 17, 2024* | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm |
| Tuesday, October 15, 2024 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Tuesday, November 12 , 2024 IN SPANISH ONLY |
8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Tuesday, December 10, 2024 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
*September 16 and September 17 half day courses must be taken together.
Online Education and Training Opportunities
Access free food safety training courses to give restaurant staff and volunteers the information they need to keep food safe in any kitchen. Online courses can be completed on your schedule. To access the full library of courses or complete a course, create a free account here.
- Concession Stand - This course covers necessary food safety practices for concession stand volunteers and staff.
- Food Safety 101 - This course provides a basic education on proper food safety practices and is a great first step for any staff person entering a food establishment.
- Holding, Heating, and Cooling Safely - This course covers how to reheat, cool, and hold hot and cold foods safely to protect customer’s health.
- Handwashing - Effective handwashing is the most common health code violation. This course explains proper handwashing and it’s importance.
- Person in Charge - A Person in Charge is required by the Food Code and is a vitally important part of any food establishment. This course covers the responsibilities, and best practices, for any Person in Charge.
- Temporary License - This course covers how to obtain a mandatory Temporary Food License and covers how to prepare and serve food safely at an event open to the public or group.
- Shellstock - This course teaches the requirements and maintenance of shellstock tags and will review necessary shellstock food safety requirements.
- Anxiety and the Health Inspector - This course addresses the common stress that can occur at a food establishment when the Health Inspector arrives for a routine inspection. This course provides tips to reduce anxiety during inspections and explains the process of inspections.
