Who Should Use Hand Sanitizer? A Practical Guide for Every Setting

Hand sanitizer (≥60% alcohol) is a critical supplement to handwashing when soap and water are unavailable. While everyone benefits in high-touch environments, certain groups should carry and use it routinely:

• Healthcare workers: Between patient contacts, before/after procedures, after glove removal.
• Food handlers: Pre-prep, after raw protein, before serving.
• Travelers/commuters: After transit, touchscreens, ticket machines, restrooms.
• Parents/caregivers: After diaper changes, wiping noses, before feeding children/elders.
• Students/teachers: Classroom entry/exit, shared supplies, labs.
• Immunocompromised individuals: Before touching face, meds, medical devices.
• Office workers: After meetings, shared equipment, kitchen, restroom.
• Public-facing workers: Retail, hospitality, banking—between customer interactions.
• Shared housing residents: Dorms, shelters, barracks—high turnover, shared surfaces.
• Anyone touching high-frequency surfaces: Door handles, elevator buttons, carts, ATMs.

Key Reminder

Sanitizer does not replace handwashing for visibly soiled hands, after toileting, or before eating. Use the right method for the situation.