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

Why Healthcare Facilities Management Is Critical to Patient Safety 

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities rely on much more than doctors and nurses to keep patients safe.


Brookdale Senior Living Announces Acquisition of the Brookdale Galleria Community

The 244-unit independent living and assisted living community is located directly adjacent to The Galleria shopping and entertainment complex.


Erlanger Health System Falls Victim to Data Breach

Erlanger has no evidence of any improper use of the information because of this incident.


Technological Readiness: The Missing Construction Milestone

A new building can be complete by most measures but still not be technologically or operationally ready.


From Cooling Towers to Cost Savings: Hospital Seizes Power-Saving Opportunity

Case study: Arkansas hospital increases energy efficiency by diagnosing cooling tower issues and treating its entire mechanical system.


 
 


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.