Hand washing

Washing your hands is one of the simplest, yet most effective, things you can do to protect your health and the health of others.

Farmers come in contact with many potential sources of disease and illness including dirt, farm animals, domestic pets, farm chemicals, fertilisers, pesticides, medications, solvents and soil.

Wash hands with soap for at least 10 seconds, under running water after contact with animals, before putting your hands near your face (to eat or smoke, for example), before preparing food, or after using the toilet.

Wash your hands regularly, especially before you eat.  If you are out on the farm keep some alcohol wash handy.

The few minutes you spend hand washing throughout the day could prevent an illness that could keep you out of action for days, weeks, or even longer – and who’s going to run the farm then?