The rules are a good thing and must be properly enforced. It's the only protection the public has because none of us get to inspect the kitchen area before ordering food. Food must not be left out for long periods of time. Refrigeration must be set at a temperature that doesn't go under the minimum degrees. Hot foods must reach a certain temperature before serving.
Chefs most carry pocket thermometers at all times.
One chef at a well-known resort in Arizona was being inspected by the health department. Everything passed with flying colors. He was about to get a perfect score when the inspector had to go the restroom. As he was washing his hands, the chef came out of a stall, walked out the door and returned immediately to the food preparation. He was not given the perfect score and asked the inspector why.