Building a Simple Hands-free Hand Washing for a Harvest Wagon

What did you do?

We built and installed two hands-free hand wash "shelves" to mount on our harvest wagons (or any harvest vehicle).

Why did you do it?

We wanted to promote efficient hands-free hand washing on the harvest wagon in order to increase the efficiency and reduce food safety risk in our field packing operation.

About how much did it cost?

Wood was salvaged, and new materials and hardware cost about $65 (see materials list attached)

How did it help?

Field packing on the harvest wagon, at the end of the conveyor, is efficient and hands can get very dirty handling mixed materials, products, culls, and new boxes. It is difficult to get off the wagon and this discourages hand washing when needed, This unit allows packers on the wagon to wash hands in place, when needed, in about 30 seconds. Benefits are increased efficiency, food safety, employee satisfaction, and self-care.

What are you most pleased with?

Custom build for mobility and effective use of space Hands-free Low cost

Any mistakes or lessons learned?

Battery powered soap dispenser will likely not work long in this setting, mechanical pump top is minimal risk and reliable--would use this instead.