Handwashing
Handwashing is a safe work practice control that has been shown to significantly reduce workplace absenteeism and healthcare claims. An effective handwashing policy can reduce the number of people who get sick with diarrhea by 31% and reduce respiratory illnesses in the general population by 21%.
As a component of the overall hygiene policy, a handwashing policy can be used to establish expectations and guidelines for employees and guests. It is important to educate employees and guests on the importance of handwashing as a preventative safe workplace practice aimed at reducing the spread of infectious diseases.
Sample Handwashing Policy
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases, employees and guests are required to wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand rubs upon entering a company facility. Additionally, employees and guests are expected to wash their hands or use alcohol-based rubs after blowing their nose, coughing or sneezing into their hands, or coming into contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.
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4-7. What are the benefits of implementing handwashing as a safe work practice control?
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