Polite way to request handwashing?

Question

How do I politely ask people I work with (there are only 2) to wash their hands, especially after coughing or sneezing? I am a cancer survivor, but I have a poor immune system due to the chemo/surgery/radiation. I get sick very easily. I don't want to sound like a hypochondriac, though.

echelon, that comment made me LMAO

Answer 1

I dunno.....you could try to educate them about your illness and current immune status.......or.......wear a mask.

If they are particularly stupid then nothing you say will make a difference.

Answer 2

Unfortunatley, you can't monitor when they wash their hands away from work. If they're aware of the cancer treatments, then they should understand without much explanation. Simply ask them to use sanitizer or to wash after sneezing and coughing if they've been ill. If you must explain that you have had cancer, don't go into too much detail unless they ask. Tell them that you would really appreciate their help, and you won't sound like a hypochondriac.

Answer 3

I'd be direct and honest with them - maybe get them together and explain that you have a weakened immune system due to an illness (you don't even have to tell them - and it's none of their business unless you want to tell them). Then have a ginormous pump bottle of Purrell on your desk. If they cough, just say "here, let me give you some Purrel, I know you're going to want to clean your hands after that big sneeze/cough".

And - you do not sound like a hypochondriac because you're not one. You survived cancer and have a legitimate concern. But I'm sure with some honesty and diligence reminding people, it will be fine.

Answer 4

The sad thing is, you can't expect people around you to change just because you want them to. You could ask them to wash their hands and explain the circumstances, but don't feel too frustrated if they don't comply. All you can do is protect yourself, like by keeping hand sanitizer with you to help prevent the spread of germs on surfaces you touch. You'd think that people in general would be more aware and respectful of others, but unfortunately the world doesn't always work that way.

Answer 5

Either you can explain to them, "hey, I'm a cancer survivor, and I have a weak immune system. Would you please wash your hands after you sneeze/cough.... This would help me stay healthy, I'd really appreciate it."
I think if you said something like this, it would be totally legit, and if they refused they'd have to be moronic or jerks.
Or you can carry hand sanitizer, or hand wipes with antibacterial - with you and use it every time they sneeze/ cough.

Answer 6

Perhaps you could enlist the help of your boss or other person who has the ear of the employees. Then they could call a meeting of everyone and explain your situation and request that all employees wash their hands, especially after coughing or sneezing.

Answer 7

Simply explain the situation to them. Your immune system has been weakened by your cancer treatments and it would help you out a lot and keep you healthy if they could try to wash their hands often.

Answer 8

You could go to a place like bath and body works and pick out a bottle of hand sanitizer for each of them and then give it to them while explaining your situation and say that it is nothing personal just a safety precaution and the sanitizer is a gift for your appreciation.

Answer 9

I know someone who was in the same situation except she was not in remission and passed away some years ago. Her coworkers were very understanding of her situation
Just tell them your situation and they will understand.I would also recomend you not share some office supplies with them such as pens and pencils since sometimes people tend to unknowingly bite them while in deep thought.

My father beat prostrate cancer 12 years ago.Congratulations to you for surviving cancer as well.

Answer 10

I'd just keep a huge bottle of that antiseptic gel stuff on my desk and anytime you see them cough or sneeze or anything you feel squeamish about, use it. I was a teacher and I kept one of them on my desk. Perhaps after they see you do it often enough, they'll get the hint and you'll be killing germs in the meantime.

Answer 11

try this:

"wash your hands you frickin' pig!"

Go to the CDC website and look up hand hygiene and hit 'em with some facts. Then just ask if they would mind being more cautious. If not, tell them you mush avoid them for reasons of health. You're correct about the spread of disease. In healthcare settings it's one of the main mechanisms to pass infectious disease.