The state Department of Health is warning restaurant and food establishment owners to beware of a scam letter alerting them of a requirement to purchase and post signs reminding employees to wash their hands.

The letter contains an official looking state of Hawaii logo, claims that a new law mandates the display of hand-washing posters and threatens fines for those not in compliance. The DOH says the scam may be an attempt to gain credit card and other personal information.

The DOH has no such requirement for mandatory hand-wash signage, and owners or managers of food establishments should disregard the notice.

Numerous posters are available free online by searching under the key word "hand wash posters." The DOH also has hand wash posters that are available for free upon request for food establishments and the public.

The department does require that all food establishment owners and managers have their employees wash their hands frequently, especially prior to beginning work, before handling food, after using the restroom, and anytime they contaminate their hands.

Food establishments in Hawaii are required to have readily accessible sinks restricted for hand washing only, and must always have an adequate supply of soap and single use towels available for employee use.

For more information, food establishments can contact the Department of Health at the following numbers: Hilo 933-0917; Kona 322-1507; Kaua'i 241-3323; Maui and Lana'i 984-8230; Moloka'i 553-3208; and O'ahu 586-8000.