The Importance of Handwashing

Why is handwashing considered an important practice in preventing diseases?

• It helps to improve skin texture.

• It can prevent the spread of germs and reduce the risk of illness.

• It is a good exercise for the hands.

• It is only important for chefs and medical professionals.

When is it MOST crucial to wash your hands?

• Before eating or preparing food.

• ONLY after using the restroom.

• Once a day is sufficient.

• Only when hands are visibly dirty.

What is the minimum recommended time you should spend washing your hands to effectively remove germs?

• 5 seconds

• 10 seconds

• 20 seconds

• 1 minute

One study showed that what percentage of handwashing attempts fail - not properly done?

• 25%

• 50%

• 75%

• 97%

What is the primary way that germs are spread from person to person?

• Through the air

• By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face

• By consuming contaminated food

• By drinking or eating after another person

About how many people a year get ill from a foodborne illness in the USA?

• 48

• 4,800

• 48,000

• 48,000,000

What is the most effective type of handwashing?

• Using water only

• Using hand sanitizer

• Using soap and water

• Wiping hands on a clean cloth

How does handwashing with soap remove germs effectively?

• Soap kills germs on contact.

• Soap makes your hands slippery, so germs can't stick.

• Soap breaks down (dissolves) the grease and dirt that carry most germs.

• Soap creates a protective barrier on the skin against germs.

It is estimated that what percentage of foodborne illness outbreaks are caused by food workers spreading disease to the public by not washing their hands properly?

• 22%

• 55%

• 93%

• 100%

Signs in the bathroom reminding workers to wash their hands before returning to work DO help increase the percentage of workers who will wash their hands.

• True

• False