Guidelines for Good Handwashing Handwashing, when done correctly, is an important personal hygiene practice to prevent contracting and spreading communicable diseases. When should we wash our hands? Before touching the eyes, nose and mouth Before eating or handling food After using the toilet When hands are contaminated by respiratory secretions, e.g. after coughing or sneezing After touching public installations or equipment, such as escalator handrails, elevator control panels or door knobs After changing diapers or handling soiled articles when looking after young children or the sick Steps for good handwashing Wet hands under running water. Apply liquid soap and rub hands together to make a soapy lather. Away form the running water, rub the front and back of hands. Message all the finger tips properly including the thumb, the web of the fingers, around and under the nails. Do this for at least 10 seconds. Rinse hands thoroughly under running water. Dry hands thoroughly with either a clean cotton towel, a paper towel, or a hand dryer. The cleaned hands should not touch the water tap directly again. The tap may be turned off by using the towel wrapping the faucet; or after splashing water to clean the faucet; or by another person. Please note: Towels should never be shared. Used paper towel should be properly disposed of. Personal towels to be reused must be stored properly and washed at least once daily. It is even better to have more than one towel for frequent replacement. Rub hands with a 65-95% alcohol solution to disinfect the hands when hand washing facilities are not available.