DONT use sand. It can cause all sorts of problems with snakes.
Don't think you said, but presume you're feeding live. I feed F/T and just stick a sheet of newspaper in first to avoid the substrate problem. Don't see why you couldn't do the same with live (line the bottom). It's a hassle, but worth it for the peace of mind!
He also eats in the tank with no problems. As has been said, if you dont smell like food, he (shouldn't!) attempt to eat you at other times!
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