What is the proper procedure for washing your hands?

The proper procedure for washing your hands is essential for maintaining hygiene, especially in a food service environment like IHOP. The recommended steps ensure that all areas of the hands are effectively cleaned, which is crucial for preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses.

The selection emphasizes turning on water to a comfortable hot temperature, which helps to effectively dissolve soap and remove dirt and germs. Applying soap is fundamental as it contains surfactants that lift and wash away pathogens. Lathering up to the elbows expands the washing area, which means more surface area is cleaned. It is also important to clean under the fingernails and between fingers where germs often hide. Rinsing thoroughly ensures all soap, along with the lifted dirt and germs, is washed away. Drying is just as critical; using a towel to turn off the water prevents re-contaminating your hands after washing since the faucet can harbor bacteria.

Following these detailed steps not only safeguards personal hygiene but also contributes to the overall health standards in a restaurant setting, where hand cleanliness is paramount.