Hand Washing

POLICIES

TITLE: Hand Washing

Studies have shown that hand washing and personal hygiene are the most important measures a person can use to prevent illness and communicable disease. Many germs can live for a long period on tables, counters and other hard surfaces. Hand washing with soap and warm water for a minimum of 15 seconds, paying close attention to the surfaces between the fingers and on the back of the hands, is best for removing dirt and germs. The proper use of hand sanitizers is also useful in controlling the spread of germs.

It is the policy of St. Thomas More that students and staff will wash their hands with soap and water:

After using the rest room

Before eating

If their hands are visibly soiled

If the student or staff member has encountered chemicals or other items, such as soil, in a science lab, art room, or other educational venue that soils hands

If the student or staff member encountered chemicals during cleaning the school environment

After cleaning animal habitats or handling animals

Before and after each task when preparing food in any class

When soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled, CDC guidance adds that alcohol-based, waterless disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used in place of hand washing on most occasions. Not all sanitizers are effective, however. A 60 percent minimum alcohol concentration is necessary to kill most harmful bacteria and viruses.

Hand washing signs will be posted at all rest rooms and/or hand sinks.

Soap, warm water and towels or an air dryer will be located at all hand washing areas.

The school will provide education in hand washing and hand hygiene at least once every school year.

Author: STMEC

Approval: ________________________________ Date: __________

________________________________ Date: __________

References: STM Handbook

Implemented:

Reviewed/Revised: