Handwashing and Hand Care

Handwashing There is more to handwashing then just the process. In addition to knowing how to wash your hands properly you also need to know WHEN and WHERE to wash your hands in the workplace.

When to Wash Your Hands Always wash your hands after: Handling money Sneezing or coughing Going to the restroom Handling raw foods (before and after) Touching your hair, face, body or anything that may contaminate hands Cleaning (using chemicals, taking out trash, clearing tables, etc.) Taking a break (eating, drinking, smoking, etc.)

How to Wash Your Hands Wet your hands with running water — either warm or cold. Apply soap. Lather well. Rub your hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds. (Sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star or the Happy Birthday song). Remember to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails. Rinse well. Dry your hands with a single-use towel or air dryer. Use the towel to turn off the faucet and open the door.

What about hand sanitizer? Hand sanitizer should never be used in place of washing your hands unless it is the ONLY option available. Keep in mind that antibacterial soap is no more effective at killing germs than is regular soap. Using antibacterial soap might even lead to the development of bacteria that are resistant to the product's antimicrobial agents — making it harder to kill these germs in the future. Taken from Mayoclinic.org

Hand Care Hand and nail care for foodhandlers: Nails should be short and clean No false fingernails (they might break off into food) No nail polish (it hides dirt and could flake off into food) Cuts or wounds should covered with a bandage AND a single-use glove

Gloves Use single-use gloves Make sure you have the right fit (too big will come off and too small will rip easier) Never wash gloves Never use in place of washing your hands

When to Change Gloves When you start a new task At least every 4 hours or more often When they become soiled After handling raw meat (of any kind) Before handling ready-to-eat foods Remove before going to the bathroom and get a new pair after washing hands

Global Handwashing Day October 15th