Section 26-2-373.1. Use of hair nets or hats by food preparers; penalty

   (a) A person who, in the ordinary course of business in a food service establishment, prepares food which is to be consumed by humans shall wear, when preparing food, appropriate hair nets or hats or restraints to prevent contamination of such food.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 26-2-377, any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be subject to a civil penalty as follows:

   (1) For a first offense, neither fine nor punishment, but only a warning; and

   (2) For a second or subsequent offense, a civil penalty not to exceed $50.00.

(c) The county board of health or its representative which issues food service establishment permits under this article shall be authorized to impose the penalties authorized under subsection (b) of this Code section and shall provide the permit holder with notice of any violation of subsection (a) of this Code section.

(d) Hair nets shall not be required of food preparers when the preparer is a volunteer without payment for his or her services and the food is being prepared for a religious, educational, charitable, or nonprofit corporation.

Code 1981, § 26-2-373.1, enacted by Ga. L. 1997, p. 836, § 1; Ga. L. 1998, p. 128, § 26.