New training in Eastern Kentucky is meant to cut down on the risk of food related illnesses.

The Kentucky River Health District is holding safety courses for any worker that handles food including those in restaurants, schools and any other facilities with food service. Environmentalists were preparing for another course Thursday at the Perry County Health Department. They say it is important to public safety.

"It's prevention, it's strictly prevention. We're hoping to not have any problems. That's what we're hoping for," said Jeff Cornett with the Kentucky River Health District.

The cost of the course is $10 for a food worker and $30 for a manager.

The training is required every two years.

Health officials say more than 500 have completed the course so far.