Which of these is required at a hand washing station?

A hand washing station must be equipped with soap as a fundamental requirement. Soap plays a crucial role in effectively removing dirt, grease, and microorganisms from the skin. When washing hands, the mechanical action of rubbing the hands together combined with soap helps to dislodge pathogens and debris, making them easier to rinse away with water. This is essential in maintaining food safety and preventing cross-contamination.

While it is also important for hand washing stations to have other elements such as running water, a means for drying hands (often provided by disposable towels or air dryers), and sometimes a hand sanitizer option, the use of soap is the primary concern as it directly impacts the effectiveness of hand hygiene practices. Having only cold water or hand sanitizer without soap would not adequately address the need for thorough hand washing, as these alternatives do not provide the same level of cleaning effectiveness.