What is a recommended action if your hands are visibly soiled?

When hands are visibly soiled, the recommended action is to wash them with soap and water. This method is essential because soap, combined with running water, effectively removes dirt, germs, and other contaminants from the skin. The mechanical action of scrubbing with soap plays a vital role in dislodging particles and microbes, ensuring a thorough cleanse that hand sanitizers and other methods cannot achieve when visible dirt is present.

Using hand sanitizer is not suitable in this scenario because sanitizers are designed for situations where hands are not visibly dirty; they may not be effective in reducing the microbial load if soil or organic material is present. Washing with water only is inadequate, as water alone cannot eliminate pathogens or remove dirt effectively. Utilizing a damp cloth might remove some surface dust, but it lacks the needed effectiveness and thoroughness of using soap and water to ensure hands are hygienically clean.