Why Should I

Wash My Hands?
Hand Hygiene/Hand Washing
is the single most effective
method to reduce the risk of
spreading germs.
September 2009

When Should I Wash My Hands?

Before starting your day, before and after lunch, and
generally, when you feel it necessary, wash with soap
and water.
When hands are dirty, contaminated or soiled, wash
with soap and water.
*Especially important after coughing, sneezing or using a
tissue

If soap and water are not readily available, use an

alcohol-based (60% or higher) hand-rub for routine
scrubbing
September 2009

How Should I
Wash My Hands?
Proper Techniques for Hand Washing
Step 1
Wet hands first
with warm water
*avoid hot water

September 2009

Proper Techniques for Hand Washing

Step 2
Apply 3-5 ml (2 - 3 pumps) of soap to hands.

September 2009

Proper Techniques for Hand Washing

Step 3
Rub hands together for at least 20
seconds, covering all surfaces of the
hands and in-between fingers.

September 2009

Proper Techniques for Hand Washing

Step 4
Rinse hands with
water.

September 2009

Step 5
Dry thoroughly
using paper towels,
leaving
faucet on.

Proper Techniques for Hand Washing

Step 6
Use a new paper
towel to turn off
faucet.

September 2009

Step 7
Discard used
paper towels in
trash.

Remember.

Source: http://www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/communicable/stopgerms/posters.aspx

September 2009

WHO Recommended Hand

Hygiene Technique
Hand rub/hand
wash
15-20 seconds
(Happy Birthday song twice)
http://www.who.int/gpsc/5may/Hand_Hygiene
_Why_How_and_When_Brochure.pdf