What is the recommended hygiene practice after replacing a wax ring or lavatory trap?

• A. Wash his/her hands with anti-bacterial soap
• B. Rinse hands with cold water only
• C. Wipe hands on towel only
• D. Sanitize without washing

Answer: (A)

After handling components that may have come into contact with waste, hands can carry germs from the work area. Washing with antibacterial soap and warm water is the best practice because soap helps lift oils and soils, and the scrubbing action removes microbes from all surfaces of the hands. Rinsing with cold water, wiping hands on a towel, or sanitizing without washing doesn’t reliably remove dirt and germs, especially after exposure to waste or contaminated parts. Clean hands should be dried with a clean towel.