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The state Department of Health’s Food Safety Branch has issued a red “closed” placard and immediately shut down Hiro’s Place in Hilo due to multiple repeated food safety violations.

During inspections conducted on Monday and Thursday, the health department inspector observed and corrected numerous violations. These included: hand sink not supplied with soap and paper towels; worker handling ready-to-eat food with bare hands; improper food storage in refrigerator; sanitizer concentration inadequate; wipe cloths not properly used or stored; improper hot and cold holding temperatures; and drinking and eating in the food preparation area.

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The same violations were observed again today, and the establishment was closed “due to an imminent health hazard to the public,” the DOH said.

“The establishment demonstrated an inability to maintain proper food safety procedures, and will remain closed until all deficiencies and corrective actions are addressed,” according to the department.

The DOH is requiring the food establishment to take the following corrective actions:

— Order staff to attend DOH food safety class;

— Provide written policies and procedures for hand-washing, cleaning and maintaining of food contact surfaces and food processes;

— Deep clean and sanitize establishment.

Hiro’s, located at 50 East Puainako St., must schedule an inspection with DOH prior to being cleared for food services.