By KLTV Newsdesk –

Food hygiene specialists warn that gloves, hot water and hand dryers may not be as effective as people think

Hand washing remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect ourselves and others from illness.

It plays a vital role in preventing the spread of viruses and controlling bacteria.

Today (October 15) marks Global Handwashing Day, and the food hygiene experts at High Speed Training are challenging some of the most widespread misconceptions around hand hygiene, whilst reinforcing what really works.

Gloves Aren’t a Substitute for Clean Hands

According to Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training, relying on gloves can actually create a false sense of security.

“Wearing gloves can actually be less safe and less hygienic than not wearing them. Bacteria can multiply quickly on gloved hands, which can easily spread onto your hands if the glove is punctured or taken off.

“Gloves can also carry bacteria on them, and that bacteria can transfer onto anything you touch, which can cause cross-contamination or issues with allergens.”

Dr Anderson stresses that while gloves can be used safely, they should never replace regular hand washing, and must be changed frequently, with hands washed thoroughly in between.

Hot Water Alone Won’t Kill Germs

Many assume that hotter water equals cleaner hands, but that’s not the case.

Soap, not temperature, is what removes bacteria and viruses. Washing in comfortably warm water between 35°C and 45°C with soap is more than sufficient.

Hand Dryers May Do More Harm Than Good

Despite their popularity in public bathrooms, hand dryers aren’t always the most hygienic choice.

Dr Anderson explains that the moist conditions inside dryers make them ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, which can then be blown straight back onto freshly washed hands.

The safer option? Disposable paper towels, which significantly reduce the risk of recontamination.

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Hand Sanitiser Isn’t Always Enough

Alcohol-based sanitiser — ideally 60% alcohol or higher — is useful when sinks aren’t available.

However, it is less effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands, where soap and water are still required. Overuse can also dry out skin, making it easier for bacteria to cling to cracks and creases.

20 Seconds Is the Standard

Rushing a hand wash undermines the whole process. The NHS recommends washing for at least 20 seconds, which is enough time to break down harmful germs and ensure that every part of the hand is cleaned properly.

It’s Not Just About Food and Toilets

While most people remember to wash their hands after using the bathroom or before cooking, good hygiene habits need to go much further. Hands should also be washed:

• After blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing

• Before and after treating wounds or administering first aid

• After touching animals, pet food or cleaning cages

• After handling rubbish or recycling

• Before eating and after touching raw meat or vegetables

With so many myths still circulating, Global Handwashing Day serves as a timely reminder: proper technique, not shortcuts, is what keeps us safe.

High Speed Training encourages everyone to refresh their hygiene habits — because clean hands save lives.

More guidance can be found at www.highspeedtraining.co.uk.