What will a sign reminding workers to wash their hands help to prevent?

A sign reminding workers to wash their hands serves as an important hygiene reminder and is a crucial component in preventing foodborne illnesses. Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to eliminate pathogens that can contaminate food, surfaces, and equipment. When workers properly wash their hands, especially after using the restroom, handling raw food, or touching any potentially contaminated surfaces, they significantly reduce the risk of transmitting harmful bacteria and viruses to food.

Foodborne illnesses are often caused by improper food handling practices, and the lack of proper hand hygiene is a common factor in many outbreaks. Therefore, placing a reminder about handwashing directly addresses this critical aspect of food safety, emphasizing that maintaining cleanliness can protect both workers and customers from serious health risks associated with contaminated food.

With that in mind, the other options do not directly relate to the primary purpose of the sign. Employee stress and operational delays may occur for a variety of reasons but are not directly impacted by handwashing reminders. Similarly, while allergies in customers can be serious, they are not prevented through handwashing, which primarily focuses on removing pathogens rather than allergenic substances. Thus, the effectiveness of this reminder in the context of food safety is most prominently seen in its ability to help prevent foodborne illnesses.