Proper hand hygiene depends on the right tools, methods

Not all hand-washing methods and soaps are the same


Not all hand-washing methods and soaps are the same, according to an article on the Occupational Health & Safety website.

Many viruses, such as the flu, can live for several hours on surfaces such as cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks, so proper hand hygiene is crucial.

For an antibacterial hand wash, use an antibacterial soap to remove or destroy most microorganisms. Wash in warm water for 15 to 20 seconds.

An antiseptic hand wash is more thorough than an antibacterial hand wash; it requires an alcohol-based sanitizer. Wash in warm water for two or more minutes, the article said.

Many public health experts suggest that hands should be dried using paper towels, not electric hand dryers.  

According to a report in the Halifax Courier, drying hands with paper towels has been shown to be more effective at removing bacteria and stopping the spread of contamination in several studies, the article said.

Read the article.

 

 



February 5, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Preparing Healthcare Facilities for Wildfire Air Quality Events

Wildfire smoke puts pressure on mechanical systems already working hard to maintain controlled indoor environments.


UW Health Set to Open Expansion at East Madison Hospital

The $140 million project adds 120,000 square feet to the hospital, expanding its footprint to roughly 620,000 square feet.


Central Ohio Primary Care Physicians Falls Victim to Cyberattack

While the full extent of the incident is still under review, our initial investigation discovered that there are approximately 1.4 million individuals impacted.


The Role of Biophilic Design in Healthcare Facilities

Nature-inspired design can support staff well-being and create more welcoming, human-centered healthcare environments.


TriStar Centennial Medical Center Invests $90M in Women, Children's Hospital Expansions

The multi-year project will bring significant improvements to both hospitals.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.