Final answer:
The accused employee should apologize, clarify misunderstandings, and show willingness to improve.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this situation, the accused employee should approach the manager with honesty and professionalism. The employee should apologize for their actions and clarify any misunderstandings. They can explain that they were unaware of the potential consequences of their behavior and assure the manager that it will not happen again.
Moreover, the employee should emphasize their commitment to maintaining hygiene standards and offer to undergo any necessary training or follow any protocol to prevent such incidents in the future. By taking responsibility for their actions and showing a willingness to rectify the situation, the employee can demonstrate their professionalism and willingness to improve.