Which of the following would you consider to be the HIGHEST priority in a cleaning schedule?

The highest priority in a cleaning schedule is food prep tables because they are directly associated with food safety and hygiene. Food prep tables are surfaces where food is prepared, which means they have a high potential for contamination from raw ingredients, bacteria, and allergens. Ensuring that these surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses, protecting both customers and the business.

In contrast, while the dry storage area, windows, and walls and ceilings should also be part of a comprehensive cleaning routine, they do not have the same immediate impact on food safety. For example, a dry storage area may need to be kept clean to prevent pest infestations and contamination of food supplies, but it does not come into direct contact with food as prep tables do. Similarly, windows and walls and ceilings, while important for overall cleanliness and aesthetic reasons, do not directly influence the safety of food being prepared and served. Prioritizing cleaning tasks that protect food safety is crucial in maintaining a safe food handling environment.