washington state department of health hand washing signs

"Washington State DOH Handwashing Signs: Stay Healthy, Know the Steps!"

By Robert HarrisDecember 21, 2025

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has implemented a robust hand hygiene program, a critical aspect of infection prevention and control. Central to this program are the hand washing signs designed to educate and remind the public, healthcare workers, and other professionals about the importance of proper hand washing. This article delves into the significance, design, and impact of these hand washing signs, highlighting their role in maintaining a healthy and safe environment across Washington State.

Why Hand Washing Matters

Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool to prevent the spread of infections and illnesses. It is the most effective way to rid your hands of most types of germs, especially when combined with the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. The Washington State DOH emphasizes this in their hand washing signs, promoting the habit as a crucial step in protecting both individuals and communities from diseases like the common cold, flu, and more serious conditions like COVID-19.

Designing Effective Hand Washing Signs

The DOH has created hand washing signs that are not only informative but also visually appealing and easy to understand. These signs are designed with the following key elements:

Hand Washing Station Sign - 5 × 7″ - 3.5 Mil InfiniStick™ Vinyl Label

Clear and Concise Messaging: The signs use simple, straightforward language to explain when and how to wash hands. They also emphasize the importance of hand washing in preventing the spread of germs.
Step-by-Step Illustrations: The signs feature clear, step-by-step diagrams that illustrate the correct hand washing technique. These images are particularly useful for those with literacy challenges or language barriers.
Prominent Placement of Signs: The DOH recommends placing these signs in strategic locations, such as near sinks, entrances, and in public restrooms. This ensures that the message reaches the maximum number of people.

Key Moments for Hand Washing

The DOH's hand washing signs highlight the critical moments when hand washing is necessary. These include:

After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
After touching animals, animal feed, or animal waste
After handling garbage
After using the toilet
Before eating or preparing food
Whenever your hands are visibly dirty or greasy

Proper Hand Washing Technique

The hand washing signs also detail the correct technique for effective hand washing. This includes:

a blue and white sign with the words notice please wash your hands on it's side

14,600+ Washing Hands Stock Illustrations, Royalty-Free Vector Graphics & Clip Art

Reflective Red & White Hand Washing Sign, 10 x 7

Step	Action
1	Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
2	Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3	Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice.
4	Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5	Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

The Impact of Hand Washing Signs

The hand washing signs from the Washington State DOH have proven to be an effective tool in promoting hand hygiene. They have been instrumental in reducing the spread of infections in various settings, including healthcare facilities, schools, and public places. By educating the public about the importance and correct technique of hand washing, these signs contribute significantly to maintaining a healthy and safe environment across Washington State.

The DOH continues to update and distribute these signs, ensuring that the message of hand hygiene remains relevant and accessible to all. By working together, we can all play a part in preventing the spread of infections and keeping our communities healthy.