Can an insulated urn without auto shut-off be used for hand washing if a hard plumbed sink is unavailable at a temporary event?

An insulated urn without auto shut-off can indeed be used for hand washing in scenarios where a hard plumbed sink is not available, such as at a temporary event. This is acceptable as long as the urn is filled with hot water that meets the health code requirements for hand washing, which is typically around 100°F (38°C) or higher.

Using an insulated urn allows for the immediate availability of warm water, thereby encouraging proper hand hygiene. It's important to ensure that the water is frequently monitored and maintained at a suitable temperature throughout the event. Additionally, providing soap and ensuring that a means for drying hands, such as disposable paper towels, is available further supports the effectiveness of this hand washing procedure.

In temporary or outdoor settings, options like this may be necessary to adhere to hygiene standards when traditional plumbing is not an option. This context is why using an insulated urn without auto shut-off is a practical solution in the specified situation.