Is it true that hand washing sinks don't need paper towels if clean aprons are available?

Hand washing sinks are required to have a means for employees to dry their hands after washing them. This is crucial for controlling the spread of pathogens and ensuring food safety. Paper towels are a common method for hand drying, as they are effective in removing moisture from hands, which helps reduce the likelihood of bacteria transfer after washing.

Even if clean aprons are available, they are not considered a suitable alternative for drying hands because aprons are typically worn during food handling and preparation. Using an apron could inadvertently transfer contaminants back to food contact surfaces or to other areas of the establishment.

Hand sanitizers can be a useful supplement to hand washing, but they do not replace the need for proper hand drying with paper towels or a similar method. In summary, a hand washing sink must always be equipped with a drying method, like paper towels, to maintain hygiene standards effectively.