Posted: April 27th, 2009 - 8:56am by Doug Powell

Singapore launched its CSI -- clean, safe, infection-free -- handwashing campaign Monday that gives thorough hand-washers the chance to win a sports car, a plasma TV or shopping vouchers.

Chng Hiok Hee, a doctor at Tan Tock Seng hospital and the head of the two-month-long campaign said,

"Good hand hygiene is crucial in stemming the spread of infections and there is no reason why the public should not learn the seven steps to hand washing practiced by medical professionals.”

The seven handwashing steps include interlacing your fingers and rubbing your hands together, rubbing your thumbs and wrists, and rubbing your fingertips on your palms, to clean all areas.

Our version? Vigorously rub hands for at least 10 seconds using soap under vigorously running water, and dry vigorously with paper towel. Friction – with vigor --  is a wonderful thing.