Hand Sanitizers | Hand Washing
NYSED Resources
Handwashing Recommendations and Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer (ABHS) Use In Schools (NYSED 3/20)
This memo updates the 2009 NYSED Guidance on the use of ABHS in the school setting. School Medical Directors may approve and permit the use of ABHS for use in their facilities without the need for individual orders from a student's private health care providers. This guidance is based on best practice in infection control and recommendations from the CDC.
School Medical Directors: A sample protocol regarding Hand Sanitizer Use in Schools is located on the Medical Director Resource Page (log in required).
CDC Resources
Clinical Safety: Fire Safety and ABHS
ABHS contains ethyl alcohol, which readily evaporates at room temperature into an ignitable vapor and is considered a flammable liquid. Although the incidence of fires related to ABHS is very low, it is vital that ABHS is stored safely and that bulk dispensers are installed and maintained correctly. This webpage provides the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101, adopted by CMS, as a minimum fire safety requirement for facilities that receive Medicaid or Medicare reimbursement. The Life Safety Code contains national standards for the storage of ABHS, as well as the placement and function of dispensers.
Hand Sanitizer FACTS
The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water whenever possible. This webpage discusses when hand sanitizer should be used and also provides hand sanitizer guidelines and recommendations.
Handwashing Clean Hands Save Lives
Provides resources for students, families, and staff with 5 simple steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness.
Hand Washing Resources for Students
Henry the Hand
Handwashing Resources for Educating Students
Why Do I Need to Wash My Hands?
KidsHealth Resource
See Also:
Page Updated 6/25/25