How long should you scrub your hands and wrists to ensure effective handwashing?

• A. At least 10 seconds
• B. At least 30 seconds
• C. At least 20 seconds
• D. At least 40 seconds

Answer: (C)

Twenty seconds is the recommended duration because it gives enough time for soap to work on all surfaces of the hands and wrists, including areas that are easy to miss like under the nails and between the fingers, while the friction helps dislodge germs that can be carried into food. Shorter times can leave contaminants behind in those spots, while longer times aren’t needed for typical food-handling tasks and can slow down routine work.