Final answer:
The statement is true; eating and drinking are prohibited in areas where hazardous drugs are handled to prevent contamination and ensure safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement, 'Eating and drinking is NOT permitted in production areas where hazardous drugs are being handled,' is True. This is because eating and drinking in areas where hazardous materials are present can lead to accidental ingestion of toxic substances, contamination, or unsafe exposure.
Safety protocols in laboratories and production areas are stringent to protect workers from health risks and to avoid contamination of the products. It is essential for individuals to take responsibility for their own safety and for the safety of others when in the laboratory or production area. As part of these precautions, personnel must refrain from eating or drinking, and should not use laboratory glassware to consume food or beverages.