Effective Hand Washing

Hand washing, done correctly, is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections.

Germs (viruses and bacteria) can be spread by touching another person, contaminated objects and then touching your face.

Part of good hand washing is washing hands:

when they are visibly soiled
after using the washroom or blowing one’s nose
before and after eating or handling food
before and after drinking or smoking
before and after handling pets
before and after caring for sick people
after handling garbage.

Washing hands with liquid soap

Using warm running water wet hands thoroughly, add 1-3 ml of soap and lather away from water
Scrub for at least 15 seconds (sing the ABC song or Happy Birthday)
Rub front and back of hands, between fingers, fingertips, base of thumbs and under nails thoroughly
Rinse with warm running water
Pat hands dry with paper towel
Turn off taps with same paper towel

Using this technique causes soil and germs to slide off the hands
Antibacterial soap is not necessary

Using waterless scrubs

These antiseptics are only effective if hands are not contaminated with dirt, blood or other organic materials. They are effective if they contain more than 60% alcohol. Do not use water.

Squirt loonie-sized amount onto one palm
Spread and rub hands as directed above
Rub hands until product is dry, at least 15 – 20 seconds if sufficient amount of product is used

Young children should be supervised when using
Store safely as with medications
No technique will remove all germs harboured in chipped finger nail polish, artificial nails or nail enhancements.
Jewelry is hard to clean and hides germs

Take control and enjoy good health!