Which of the following is the first step in cleaning and sanitizing in place equipment?

The first step in cleaning and sanitizing in place equipment is to unplug it. This is essential for safety reasons, as it ensures that the equipment is not powered during the cleaning process, reducing the risk of electric shock or injury to sanitation staff. By disconnecting the power, you create a safer environment to thoroughly clean and sanitize the equipment.

This initial step sets the stage for effective cleaning. Once the equipment is unplugged, you can safely proceed with scraping food from surfaces, washing, and rinsing, ensuring that all contaminants are removed before applying any sanitizing agents. Safety should always be a priority in any cleaning protocol, especially when dealing with electrical appliances.