Ohio Person In Charge

In Ohio, being the “Person In Charge” (PIC) is more than just a title on the schedule—it is a legal requirement. Whether you are running a coffee shop in Columbus, a bistro in Cincinnati, or a fast-casual spot in Cleveland, the Ohio Uniform Food Safety Code requires that a knowledgeable person is present during every shift.

As the PIC, your primary job is protecting the public. And your biggest enemy? Cross-Contamination.

Today, we are discussing how a Level 1 PIC can stop contamination before it starts, and how you can get certified on the best video-based platform in the industry.

The PIC’s Role: Stopping the Spread

Cross-contamination isn’t just about a dirty knife; it’s about flow and procedure. As the Person In Charge, you aren’t just watching for these mistakes—you are setting up the systems to prevent them.

Here are the three areas every Ohio PIC must monitor:

1. The “Top-Down” Cooler Rule: Gravity is the enemy inside your walk-in. As a PIC, you must ensure your team stores ready-to-eat foods (like pies or salads) at the top and raw poultry at the very bottom. One drip from a thawing chicken can contaminate $500 worth of produce.

2. Color-Coded Chaos: During a rush, a cook might grab the nearest cutting board. It is your job to enforce the system: Red boards for raw meat, Green for veggies, White for deli/bakery. If the system breaks down, safety breaks down.

3. The Handwash Habit: Gloves are not magic. If a server clears a dirty table and then grabs a lemon slice for a water glass without washing hands, that is cross-contamination. The PIC must model this behavior: Wash, dry, then glove up.

Why You Need Level 1 Certification (ODH Approved)

Ohio law is strict. If a health inspector walks in, they will ask: “Who is the Person In Charge?”

That person must demonstrate knowledge of food safety. The easiest, most professional way to prove that knowledge is with a Level 1 Certification in Food Protection. It proves you understand the risks, the temperatures, and the laws.

The ACE Advantage: Certification for the Modern Manager

You are busy running a shift. You don’t have time for outdated classrooms or boring text-based slides. That is why ACE Food Handler is the preferred choice for Ohio industry pros:

• Engaging Video Training: We use high-quality video to demonstrate concepts, making it easier to retain the information you need to pass.

• Ohio Compliant: Our course meets the requirements for Ohio Level 1 Certification in Food Protection.

• World-Class Platform: No glitches, no crashes. Just a smooth, mobile-friendly experience that respects your time.

• Instant Verification: Pass the final assessment and get your certificate immediately.

Leader’s Special: Get Certified for Less

Lead your team with confidence. Get your Ohio Level 1 Certification today and ensure your kitchen is compliant and safe.

Use our exclusive blog code for a discount on your training.

COUPON CODE: ACE20 Save 20% on your Ohio Person In Charge (Level 1) Certification.

> Click Here to Start Your Ohio PIC Course

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 certification in Ohio? Level 1 (Person In Charge) is a basic food safety course required for the designated person on shift. It covers the essentials like handwashing, temperatures, and cross-contamination. Level 2 (Manager Certification) is a more extensive, rigorous certification (like ServSafe or NRFSP) required for the primary manager/owner of the facility.

Does every employee in Ohio need a food handler card? Not necessarily. Ohio law mandates that a “Person In Charge” (PIC) with food safety knowledge be present during all hours of operation. However, many employers require all staff to take Level 1 training to ensure the highest safety standards and lower liability.

Is the ACE Food Handler course approved by the Ohio Department of Health? Yes. ACE Food Handler offers an ODH-approved Level 1 Certification in Food Protection course. It is fully recognized by local health departments across Ohio.

How many questions are on the Ohio Level 1 test? The assessment is designed to verify your knowledge without being overly difficult. It typically consists of a short series of questions focused on the critical control points covered in the video modules.

Can I take the Ohio PIC course on my phone? Yes. The ACE Food Handler platform is 100% mobile-optimized, allowing you to watch the videos and take the assessment on any smartphone or tablet.

The Smarter Alternative to ServSafe®: ANAB-Accredited & Industry Approved Upgrade your food safety compliance with Ace Restaurant Manager Training. Powered by FMC, our program provides the ANAB-CFP accredited certification legally required by health departments nationwide—without the ServSafe premium. We have replaced the industry’s outdated testing methods with a superior, user-friendly platform that features 24/7 access, remote online proctoring, and instant certificate downloads. Join the shift to a better, more affordable training solution that puts your business first.

Start Your Training Today | [View Corporate Solutions]

Ohio Person in Charge Certification in Food Protection

Ohio Person in Charge

Course fees for Ohio Person in Charge Certification in Food Protection

$10 Online Ohio Person in Charge Food Handler

State of Ohio

Ohio Department of Health
Food Safety Program
246 North High Street
Columbus, OH 43215

Telephone: (614) 644-7416