Washing our hands is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of bacteria and the subsequent risk of both disease and sickness at home and within a medical setting.

But are you washing your hands correctly?

SHD Medical will guide you through the six sanitising steps for cleaner hands and a safer working and living environment.

#1. Remove All Debris and Jewellery From Your Hands

Take off all rings, bracelets and other items of jewellery on the wrists, hands and fingers and put them to one side. Afterwards, run your hands under the tap, making sure they are fully covered with water.

#2. Apply The Correct Amount Of Sanitiser

Sanitiser should be applied liberally to your hands  - if in doubt, a ten pence piece size amount should be enough for effective cleaning.

#3. Begin Washing

It should take at least 20 seconds to clean your hands fully using a series of thorough techniques. Begin by rubbing your hands palm to palm, interlacing and interlocking your fingers, making sure you don't miss your thumbs or the backs of your hands.

The World Health Organisation have put together an 11 step hand washing sequence to prevent infection that you can use for reference if necessary.

#4. Rinse Your Hands

Rinsing your hands is just as important as the scrubbing process. Run your hands under warm running water ensuring that all soap residue is removed, taking particular care when it comes to the spaces between your fingers and the backs of your hands, not just your palms.

#5. Dry Your Hands

There are many different ways to dry your hands - whether you're making use of hand dryers or hand towels, both are effective, but SHD believe the old-fashioned single use paper towel is your best option.

The advantage of using paper towels is that they dry your hands the fastest when compared to dryers and towels, getting rid of germs in a efficient and contained way. Where hand towels can become a breeding ground for bacteria, the single use towel helps correct this, helping prevent the spread of germs into the environment and from person to person.

#6. Turn Off The Tap Without Touching It

If you don't have a hands-free or lever handle faucet that you can press down with an elbow, use a paper towel to turn off the tap and dispose of the towel to avoid any accidental contamination.


Post By Ed Mason