How can food service workers ensure proper hygiene after using the restroom?

Washing hands with soap and water is the most effective method for ensuring proper hygiene after using the restroom. This process is crucial because soap interacts with the dirt, bacteria, and viruses on the skin, helping to lift them away. Running water flushes these contaminants off the hands, significantly reducing the risk of spreading pathogens that could lead to foodborne illnesses.

Handwashing should be done for at least 20 seconds, covering all parts of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails, which are common areas for germs to hide. While hand sanitizer can be useful in situations where soap and water are not available, it does not eliminate all types of germs and may not be as effective if hands are visibly soiled.

Rinsing hands with water alone does not effectively remove bacteria or viruses, and wearing gloves after using the restroom does not substitute for proper hand hygiene, as gloves can become contaminated and may not provide a barrier against pathogens without first washing the hands. Therefore, washing hands with soap and water is the recommended practice for all food service workers to ensure proper hygiene after using the restroom.