Hand Hygiene Steps Chart

What it is

Clean hands are one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. The CDC gives simple steps for washing with soap and water and for using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This chart is meant to be posted at sinks, sanitizer stations and janitor closets.

How to use it

Post the handwashing steps at sinks and the sanitizer steps at dispensers. Use the table below to decide which method fits the situation.

Handwashing with soap and water

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water. Turn off the tap and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together. Get the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or an air dryer.

Using hand sanitizer

1. Use a sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
2. Put the amount the label says in the palm of one hand.
3. Rub your hands together over all surfaces of your hands and fingers.
4. Keep rubbing until your hands are dry. This should take around 20 seconds.

Which method to use

Key points

• Sanitizer does not remove dirt, grease or chemicals. Wash first if hands are soiled.
• Gloves do not replace hand hygiene. Clean hands after removing gloves.
• Keep dispensers filled. Empty dispensers are the most common reason hand hygiene is skipped.
• Food service and healthcare sites may have stricter rules. Follow the site's policy.
• Store sanitizer away from heat and flame. Alcohol-based sanitizer is flammable.

Common mistakes

• Rinsing too fast and skipping the 20-second scrub.
• Missing thumbs, fingertips and the backs of hands.
• Wiping sanitizer off before it dries.
• Using sanitizer on hands that are visibly dirty.

Governing standards: CDC hand hygiene guidance (handwashing and hand sanitizer recommendations).

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.