When is it required to use a tray jack?

• A. Before service.
• B. After 5 minutes of service.
• C. When empty.
• D. After 3 plates.

Answer: (D)

The idea behind this is safe tray handling during service. A tray jack is used to stabilize and balance a loaded tray so you can carry it without tipping or spilling. Once a tray has multiple plates on it, the risk of tipping increases, so using the tray jack helps keep the tray level and secure. In this policy, that point comes after you’ve placed three plates on the tray, which is why the correct choice is to use the tray jack after three plates. It's not something you need before service, and it isn't for empty trays or based on arbitrary time marks during service.