What temperature should the water used for sanitary hand washing be?

The appropriate temperature for water used in sanitary hand washing is a comfortable temperature. This means the water should be warm enough to encourage thorough washing but not so hot that it becomes uncomfortable for the hands. Warm water is effective in helping to remove dirt, grease, and germs more effectively than cold water. It also encourages people to wash their hands more thoroughly and for the recommended duration because it feels pleasant.

Using water that is too hot can lead to skin irritation or burns, while freezing water may deter individuals from washing their hands properly, thus compromising hygiene. Boiling water is not usable for hand washing as it can cause severe burns and is not suitable for skin contact. Therefore, a comfortable temperature strikes the right balance for effective hand sanitation and encourages better compliance with hand hygiene practices.