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Hand dryers appear in public toilets, including hospital toilets. As reported by PAP, research conducted by the British shows that the use of dryers leads to the spread of germs. Thus, the risk of bacterial infections increases, which may be of concern, especially in the context of the safety of patients, visitors and employees of medical facilities. It is also important information in the context of the spreading SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus epidemic.
Hand dryers in hospital bathrooms
information about spreading germs through hand dryers is based on a 12-week study. Researchers from Leeds selected bathrooms in three hospitals – in Leeds, Italian Udine and Paris – for testing. In each facility, they checked two bathrooms, with a hand dryer in one and paper towels in the other. Every day, samples were taken from the air, as well as from surfaces and sanitary facilities, and the number of bacteria was checked. After a few weeks, for comparison, the available method of hand drying was changed in each of the bathrooms.
The results of the study were unequivocal – by a lot more bacteria were detected in bathrooms with hand dryers installed. In individual hospitals, hand dryers were found to contain as many as 22 (Leeds), 33 (Paris), and even 100 (Udine) times more bacteria than paper towel dispensers.
The scientists detected bacterial strains such as staphylococcus aureus, enterococci and multi-drug resistant bacteria in the samples. The presence of these pathogens in medical facility toilets may facilitate the spread of nosocomial infections.
How do hand dryers spread bacteria?
Many people wash their hands quickly and carelessly, which removes only surface dirt from their hands. However, they do not get rid of the germs present on the skin. If unwashed hands are dried with a dryer provided in a given toilet, the blast of air will disperse the pathogens in the air. They can float in the room for up to 15 minutes. It will also lead to bacteria settling on various surfaces, including the bathroom counter, tap, sink and floor. In addition, germs can also settle on the clothing, hair and exposed skin of the person who has just dried their hands.
Mark Wilcox, author of the study, pointed out that paper towels are better hygienic when disposed of properly. They absorb water and germs without spreading them further to subsequent toilet users.
How to wash your hands properly?
Proper hand washing is essential to minimize the risk of infection. The cited research shows, however, that the positive effect will be offset by using hand dryers. The surest method is to wash your hands with warm soapy water for a minimum of 30 seconds, and then wipe them with a clean towel or a disposable paper towel.
An additional method of hand disinfection is the use of a gel, spray or other hand disinfectant. It should be alcohol-based remedies.
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