Hand Washing: Prevents diseases

-- US Centers for Disease Control Hand Washing “Hand washing is the single most important means of preventing the spread of infection“ -- US Centers for Disease Control

Why people don’t wash their hands Skin irritation Inaccessible hand washing facilities Too busy Working in high-risk areas Lack of hand hygiene promotion Lack of role model

Successful Promotion  Employee Education Routine observation & feedback Engineering controls Location of hand basins Possible, easy & convenient Reminders in the workplace Promote and facilitate skin care Administrative sanctions ??

When to Wash Your Hands After blowing/wiping the nose After being around a sick person After any cleaning session After going to the toilet Prior to eating meals or snacks Whenever hands are soiled

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 1. Adjust water to a comfortable level and wet hands. Dispense a small amount of soap into the palms of the hands creating a lather.

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 2. Using as much friction as needed, thoroughly clean all surfaces of hands including between the fingers.

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 3. Pay attention to the nails and nail beds by rubbing the nails of one hand across the palm of the other, creating enough friction  to clean underneath the nails.

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 4. Rinse the hands under running water, being sure to hold the hands in a downward position.

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 5. Use paper towels or warm air blower to thoroughly dry the hands.

Correct Hand Washing Procedure 6. Using the same paper towel, turn off the water supply.

Parts of the hand frequently missed during washing

Hand washing is the simplest and the most important measure in preventing the spread of infections. It is important that you understand it and play your part in maintaining a healthy environment at home and at work.