Good hand hygiene is one of the best ways to reduce the spread of germs and diseases. This safety talk provides tips for proper hand washing — using soap or hand sanitizer — and highlights the importance of this task in preventing occupational disease.

By Marnie Douglas

It may seem simple, but handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of disease. As we enter cold and flu season, this first line of defence is key to preventing a wide range of infections from COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, which can be spread from person to person by contaminated hands. If you’re infected, symptoms can range from a runny nose and sore throat to serious illness, medical complications, and even death.

“We’re entering a time of year where there are more germs in the air and on surfaces we touch throughout our day,” says Jeanette Campbell, senior occupational hygienist for WorkSafeBC’s Risk Analysis Unit. “Washing your hands correctly is something everyone has control over and is one of the best ways to reduce the spread of germs.”

It’s time to wash your hands

It’s important to wash your hands often and properly — whether you’re at home, at work, or out in the community. In the workplace, workers should wash their hands at the following times:

• Before and after going on a break
• Before and after handling tools and equipment
• Before and after using masks or other PPE
• After handling cash or other materials that have come into contact with the public
• After using the washroom
• When you arrive at work

Clean your hands — the correct way!

When you wash your hands, you combine soap, friction, and water to remove germs. If soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer is a great alternative when your hands are not visibly soiled. “When our hands have dirt on them, hand sanitizer can’t penetrate the barrier to do its job effectively,” says Campbell. “Be sure to use a sanitizer that is 60 to 80 percent alcohol based, distribute it evenly, and keep rubbing for 20 to 30 seconds, until your hands are dry.”

If you’re washing your hands with soap and water, thoroughly wet your hands and apply liquid or bar soap. Be sure to choose a water temperature that allows you to complete the following six-step process.

The process above should take at least 20 seconds (or “Happy Birthday” sung twice!) Once you’ve completed these steps, rinse your hands with your fingertips pointing down. When you’re done drying your hands, use the towel to turn off the tap to prevent new germs from getting on your hands. “Handwashing is a simple, straightforward thing we can all do to support our personal hygiene and stay healthy,” says Campbell. “It’s an effective tool that plays an important role in protecting your health and the health of others around you.”

Find out more

Employers have a responsibility to help prevent the spread of communicable diseases. They must provide facilities and supplies for workers to clean their hands, and can reinforce hand hygiene through policies and signage.

For related information and resources, including new hand hygiene videos and posters to pin up in your staffroom, visit our Communicable disease prevention and Infectious diseases pages.

This information originally appeared in the Winter 2023 issue of WorkSafe Magazine. To read more or to subscribe, visit WorkSafe Magazine.