Hand Washing and Drying Frequency

If hands are washed and dried too frequently, this can have a negative effect on skin health, due to physical disruption of the skin's natural barrier properties. When this happens, skin cracking and sores can result, having overall adverse consequences on hygiene.

Acceptable frequency of hand washing and drying needs to be established on a case-by-case basis, with the goals of reducing hand contamination and ensuring full sanitary compliance and safe food production. Healthcare and food preparation personnel, for example, are required to wash their hands more frequently to ensure patient and food safety.

When to wash and dry your hands

Hands should always be washed and dried:

Upon entry to the work area.
As often as needed to remove dirt and prevent product contamination.
Before and after eating and drinking, and after smoking or handling money.
After using the toilet.
After sneezing, coughing into hands, or touching the face, hair or clothing.
After touching any dirty surface, soiled equipment or utensils.
Between glove changes.
When switching from raw food handling to cooked or ready-to-eat food preparation.