Microsoft Word 2007 ichrie conference Proceedings Final-Final 06-06-07. doc

Study framework 
 
Based on the findings of this study, the researcher presents a two-level framework. The first level 
framework (Figure 1) indicates a likely convergence between the intended effects of food safety communication 
(compliance with WHO golden rules) and actual practices in the work place at the level of the individual food 
handlers. The research findings suggest that the degree of convergence was influenced by several factors.
One factor was the hovering presence of an authority figure who would give out constant reminders to the 
food handlers regarding safe food handling. This authority figure was someone who was respected by the food 
handlers because of his education and/or experience, which surpassed theirs. At the same time, this person was 
someone the food handlers could identify with because he/she performed tasks under the same work conditions.
The researcher interpreted the food handlers’ responsiveness to their supervisor as respect for someone who had 
extensive experience but whose flexibility in adapting to work place limitations made the rules acceptable and 
practical. The response of the food handlers may not have been the same if the communicator were detached or 
unaware of the prevailing conditions the food handlers had to adjust to or the harried nature of work in the food 
service kitchen. 
Another factor that influenced the degree of overlap was the interpersonal communication among the food 
handlers and the common regard for food safety as a collective responsibility. This was deemed necessary in order 
to satisfy customers and develop repeat patronage. The convergence theory attributable to Lawrence Kincaid and 
his colleagues regards communication as a process where participants share information with one another in order to 
reach a mutual understanding (Littlejohn, 1996). In this study, the food handlers shared information with each other 
verbally and non-verbally. Verbal sharing took place as participants shared what they knew about food safety with 
their co-workers. This also took place whenever supervisors or senior employees issued constant reminders to their 
staff. Non-verbal sharing – whether intentional or not – took place as food handlers’ repeated behavior became 
common and accepted practice in the work place.
The food handlers were generally aware of safe food handling procedures, with some of them 
understanding the scientific reasons behind the rules better than others. However, they also had to contend with the 
limited kitchen space and with budgetary constraints that compelled them to work under less than ideal conditions.

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