Handwashing Behaviors in Food Service Establishment Restrooms: An Observational Study

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified poor handwashing as a main factor in foodborne illness outbreaks (ServSafe, 2009). They suggested that failure to wash hands, or inadequate washing of hands, contributes to almost 50% of all foodborne illness outbreaks. We conducted an observational study of diners’ handwashing behaviors in restaurant restrooms in terms of gender, handwashing signage, sink cleanliness conditions, and time. Our goal was to explore predictors of proper handwashing behaviors to promote better handwashing compliance.