Handwashing policy

Handwashing Policy

Purpose:
To prevent the spread of disease among children, families, and staff members by ensuring consistent and effective hand hygiene practices.

Policy Statement:
All employees of Young Innovators Academies are required to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently using soap and warm running water for at least 20 seconds. Handwashing is a critical infection control measure and must be strictly followed at designated times throughout the day.

When to Wash Hands:

Staff members must wash their hands:

Upon arrival at the center
Before and after:
- Preparing food or bottles
- Eating or serving meals
- Using the sensory table or any shared materials
After:
- Diapering a child
- Assisting a child with toileting
- Using the restroom themselves
- Wiping a child’s nose or coming into contact with saliva, mucous, blood, vomit, urine, feces, or any other bodily fluid
- Removing disposable gloves
- Coming inside from the playground or outdoor areas
- Returning to the center from a break

Procedure:

Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
Lather hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds. (Tip: Hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice.)
Rinse hands well under clean, running water.
Dry hands using a clean paper towel or air dryer.
Use the paper towel to turn off the faucet if necessary.

Compliance:

Failure to follow proper handwashing procedures may result in disciplinary action, as it compromises the health and safety of the children and staff. Regular handwashing checks may be conducted by management to ensure adherence.

For visual instructions, please refer to the handwashing posters displayed near all sinks and the Handwashing Procedures section of the staff handbook.