Personal Hygiene
How to properly wash your hands
Handwashing
Every day our hands touch surfaces covered with pathogens that we cannot see. Remember, even healthy people can spread pathogens. For this reason, handwashing is the most important part of personal hygiene.
Where to Wash Hands
Hands need to be washed in a sink designated for handwashing. Do not wash hands in sinks for food prep, dishwashing, or utility services.
How to Wash Hands
Wet hands and arms
Use running water as hot as you can comfortable stand. It should be at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Apply soap.
Apply enough to build up a good lather
Scrub hands and arms vigorously
Scrub them for 10 to 15 seconds. Clean under fingernails and between fingers.
Rinse hands and arms thoroughly.
Use running warm water.
Dry hands and arms.
Use a single-use paper towel or a hand dryer. Consider using a paper towel to turn off the faucet and open the door when leaving the restroom.
When to Wash Hands
- Using the restroom.
- Handling raw meat, poultry, and seafood (before and after).
- Touching the hair, face, or body.
- Sneezing, coughing, or using a tissue
- Eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum or tobacco.
- Handling chemicals that might affect food safety.
- Taking out garbage.
- Clearing tables or busing dirty dishes.
- Touching clothing or aprons.
- Handling money.
- Leaving and returning to the kitchen/prep area.
- Touching anything else that may contaminate hands, such as dirty equipment, work surfaces, or wiping cloths.