Handwashing I: Introduction and Types of Equipment

Handwashing is a hand hygiene measure performed using plain or antimicrobial soap and water to physically remove dirt, organic material, and microorganisms.

The equipment for the procedure includes a hand washbasin, liquid soap, paper towels, a waste bin, and an optional disposable nail cleaner.

A separate washbasin for staff in the clinical area is essential, which must be non-touch or lever-operated.

Basins must be unobstructed by any objects to ensure ease of access.

The position of the tap should be away from the outflow to avoid splashes containing organisms from the drain.

Taps should be of a mixer type to set the temperature before handwashing.

Placement of the liquid soap dispensers close to hand washbasins prevents soap from dripping onto the floor and causing a slip hazard.

A paper towel dispenser should be attached to the wall near the washbasin.

These hand towels should be of good quality, and able to dry the hands with one or two uses.

An appropriate bin with a pedal-operated lid should be placed near the basin to discard used towels.