A Food Employee Accidentally Drops a Bimetallic Thermometer: What Comes Next?

Take it out of service, inspect it, clean and sanitize the probe, and check its calibration. Reuse it only if it is undamaged and meets the required accuracy.

Yes, an impact is a reason to verify accuracy because it can disturb the sensing mechanism. Adjust it according to its instructions if the reading is outside the acceptable range.

The Food Code addresses food temperature measuring devices through accuracy, accessibility, suitability, good repair, and calibration requirements. Local rules may adopt or modify the model code, so the person in charge should check the governing jurisdiction.

A bent, cracked, loose, or otherwise damaged thermometer should not be trusted for food-safety decisions. Follow workplace procedures for discarding or replacing it.

A common method uses a well-stirred ice-water bath, keeping the sensing area away from the container. If the reading is not 32°F, adjust the calibration nut as the manufacturer directs and check again.