The Importance of Handwashing: Simple Steps for Healthier Spaces

Handwashing might seem simple, but it’s one of the most effective tools your facility has for preventing illness and maintaining a safe, healthy environment. According to the CDC, proper hand hygiene can dramatically reduce the spread of germs that cause common infections—protecting staff, guests, and your bottom line¹.

When to Wash Your Hands

Facility occupants and staff should wash their hands frequently, but there are key times when it’s especially critical:

Before, during, and after preparing food

Before eating or touching your face

After using the restroom

After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose

After handling trash, shared equipment, or cleaning supplies

After caring for someone who is ill

Posting clear signage near sinks, food areas, and restrooms can help reinforce these habits and remind everyone that health starts with clean hands.

Supporting Hand Hygiene in Your Facility

To make hand hygiene second nature, facilities should:

Partner with suppliers that can help evaluate product performance and refill frequency.

At BradyPLUS, we help facilities implement comprehensive hygiene programs that go beyond compliance—supporting healthier environments and happier occupants.

Additionally, each year on October 15, the world recognizes Global Handwashing Day, an international awareness campaign dedicated to promoting the importance of clean hands.⁵ It’s an excellent opportunity for facilities to re-engage employees, launch hygiene challenges or reminders, and refresh hand hygiene supplies and signage. A single day of awareness can spark long-term behavioral changes that support healthier workplaces year-round.

How to Wash Hands the Right Way

The CDC outlines five simple steps for effective handwashing:⁶

Wet hands with clean, running water

Lather with soap, including the backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails

Scrub for at least 20 seconds—about the time it takes to hum "Happy Birthday" twice

Rinse under running water

Dry with a clean towel or air dryer

When soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol until you can reach a sink.⁷

A Clean Habit That Makes a Big Impact

Handwashing is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to prevent the spread of illness in your facility. From reducing absenteeism to creating safer, more inviting environments, the benefits extend far beyond the sink.

It’s a small act that delivers a big return for your people, your guests, and your business.

Ready to strengthen your facility’s hygiene strategy? Connect with BradyPLUS to explore tailored hand hygiene solutions that protect people, enhance efficiency, and reinforce your commitment to health and safety.

Sources

1. About Handwashing - CDC
2. Handwashing Facts - CDC
3. Hand Hygiene - CDC
4. Handwashing Facts - CDC | Clean Hands
5. Global Handwashing Day - CDC
6. When and How to Wash Your Hands - CDC
7. Hand Sanitizer Use - CDC