Study says hand dryers can spread bacteria

Airborne germ counts were 27 times higher around jet air dryers in comparison with the air around paper towel dispensers


A study has found that high-powered jet-air and warm-air hand dryers can spread bacteria in public restrooms. Airborne germ counts were 27 times higher around jet air dryers in comparison with the air around paper towel dispensers, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

The study shows that both jet and warm- air hand dryers spread bacteria into the air and onto users and those nearby.

To mimic hands that have been poorly washed, the researchers contaminated hands with a harmless type of bacteria not normally found in public bathrooms. 

Subsequent detection of the Lactobacillus in the air proved that it must have come from the hands during drying. 

Read the article.

 

 



December 4, 2014


Topic Area: Maintenance and Operations


Recent Posts

Ventilation and Filtering for Infection ControlĀ 

Poor IAQ can be deadly in healthcare facilities, so maintaining proper air conditioning and filter systems is key in controlling the spread of infection.


ChristianaCare Opens Aston Campus Neighborhood Hospital

The hospital is expected to care for approximately 15,000 patients each year.


Stantec Breaks Ground on New Academic Medical Center in Miami

The project is scheduled for completion in 2028.


Building Senior Living for the Next Generation of Retirees

As baby boomers seek new retirement expectations, developers and designers must rethink senior living facilities


Managing Drain and Biofilm Risk

Drains are out of sight, but a coordinated program linking infection prevention, EVS and facilities can keep them from getting out of control.


 
 


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.