Basic hygiene precautions are important for all workers. The following list, originally developed by EPA, provides a good set of hygiene recommendations.

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with wastewater and debris.
2. Avoid touching face, mouth, eyes, nose, genitalia, or open sores and cuts while working with wastewater and debris.
3. Wash your hands before you eat, drink, or smoke and before and after using the bathroom.
4. Eat in designated areas away from wastewater and debris.
5. Do not smoke or chew tobacco or gum while working with wastewater and debris.
6. Use gloves to prevent skin abrasion and create barrier between skin and surfaces exposed to wastewater and debris.
7. Remove excess wastewater and debris from footgear prior to entering a vehicle or a building.
8. Keep wounds covered with clean, dry bandages.
9. Thoroughly but gently flush eyes with water if wastewater and debris contact eyes.
10. Change into clean work clothing on a daily basis and reserve footgear for use at worksite or during wastewater and debris transport.

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