Hand Washing: Simple,Cost Effective,Evidence Based … Lip Service!

Abstract

Hand washing is so simple that we teach our toddlers to do it. It's so important in our every day lives that facilities for hand washing can be found in every conceivable environment. Scientists, literature and the media give evidence on the benefits and in the art of good techniques. So why, in an environment where the management of infection is a matter of health and safety for all, is hand washing so low on our ever-growing list of priorities? This article examines the legal and moral issues of hand washing in relation to health and safety, concentrating on possible reasons for non-compliance and how these can be addressed.