Employee hands must be scrubbed thoroughly for how long during handwashing?

The recommended duration for scrubbing hands during handwashing in a food handling environment is 10-15 seconds. This time frame is important to effectively remove dirt, debris, and pathogens from the skin. Handwashing is a critical step in maintaining food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses, as proper hygiene helps to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses that could contaminate food or surfaces.

The key to effective handwashing is not just the time spent scrubbing but also the technique used: ensuring all surfaces of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails, are cleaned thoroughly. While a longer duration may seem more effective, research and guidelines indicate that 10-15 seconds is sufficient to achieve proper hand hygiene when done correctly, making it the standard practice in the food industry.