How to Choose the Right Hand Cleaning Products for Different Industry Sectors 

Choosing the right hand cleaning products for your workplace isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about finding solutions that are effective, safe, and suitable for the needs of your industry.

Whether you’re working in healthcare, food preparation, construction, or office environments, the type of hand cleaning products you use can make a big difference in cleanliness standards, skin health, and compliance with regulations. 

Here’s a breakdown of how different sectors can select appropriate hand hygiene solutions and what to consider when making your choice. 

 

Healthcare Settings 

In healthcare, hand hygiene is absolutely critical for preventing the spread of infection. Staff are often required to clean their hands dozens of times a day, so products need to be both effective and gentle on the skin. 

• Alcohol-based hand sanitisers with at least 70% alcohol content are essential for rapid disinfection when soap and water aren’t available. 

• Antibacterial liquid soaps are ideal for use at sinks, providing thorough cleaning to remove dirt and pathogens. 

• Touch-free dispensers help reduce cross-contamination and maintain hygiene in high-use environments. 

Look for products that are dermatologically tested and fragrance-free, as repeated use can lead to skin irritation if harsh ingredients are used. 

 

Food Processing and Catering 

Food safety regulations demand strict hand hygiene protocols, particularly where cross-contamination can pose a serious risk. In these settings, hand cleaning products must be food-safe and free from strong perfumes or dyes. 

• Non-tainting, unperfumed soaps are vital for use in kitchens and food handling zones. 

• Antibacterial hand wash helps ensure germs are removed effectively before and after food preparation. 

• Hand sanitiser stations placed at entry points encourage compliance before entering work areas. 

Products used in food environments must meet food safety standards and be quick and easy to use, encouraging frequent handwashing throughout the day. 

 

Construction and Industrial Sectors 

For those working in heavy-duty environments, such as construction, automotive, or manufacturing, hand cleaning products need to be powerful enough to remove oils, greases, paints, and general grime, yet still gentle enough for regular use. 

• Heavy-duty industrial hand cleaners are designed to tackle tough dirt and are available with or without scrubbing agents depending on the level of soiling. 

• Barrier creams can be applied before work to make hand cleaning easier and protect the skin from harsh substances. 

• Moisturising creams are also recommended to prevent hands from drying out after frequent washing. 

These products should be used alongside wall-mounted dispensers in wash stations, helping to reduce waste and keep usage consistent. 

 

Office and Commercial Spaces 

In low-risk environments like offices, retail spaces, and educational facilities, the focus is on maintaining general cleanliness and encouraging good hygiene habits. 

• Foam or liquid soaps in shared washrooms support routine handwashing. 

• Alcohol-based hand sanitisers should be made readily available at entrances, desks, and communal areas. 

• Paper towel dispensers or hand dryers complete the hand hygiene process efficiently. 

Ease of use, pleasant scent, and skin-friendliness are important factors in encouraging consistent hand hygiene practices among staff and visitors alike. 

 

Selecting the right hand cleaning products for your workplace is about more than just buying soap or sanitiser—it’s about choosing solutions tailored to your industry’s specific needs.

Whether it’s industrial hand wash for construction, alcohol-based sanitiser for healthcare, or non-tainting hand soap for food prep, the right product supports not only hygiene but also employee well-being and compliance with sector regulations. 

By understanding your environment and choosing the appropriate products, you help create a safer, healthier, and more efficient workplace.