Simply put, yes. Hand washing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. As stated on www.nhs.uk, “Studies show that hand washing reduces the transmission of diarrhea and colds, and targeted disinfection at critical sites reduces the spread of infection in the home.” Good handwashing techniques include using an adequate amount of soap, rubbing your hands together to create friction, and rinsing under warm running water. On the website www.ccohs.ca they stated: "It is true that regular soap and water do not actually kill microorganisms (they create a slippery surface that allows organisms to "slide off"), antibacterial soaps are generally considered "overkill" for most purposes. The exception might be in a hospital where there are special situations.” Reduces the spread of germs and diseases, reduces exposure to chemicals, and reduces the chances of developing some skin allergies stopping the spread of germs is if you have to sneeze and you don't have a tissue it is to sneeze into your armpit, then rather sneeze into your hand, then only then wipe it on an object or worse on your clothes and possibly later hug someone Very important is also to pay special attention to hygiene in the workplace. Many research studies have shown that the average office desk area contains a huge amount of bacteria and viruses which could be around 21,000 bacteria per square inch.!