Summary
Efficient washing and drying of hands is important in prevention of the transfer of
micro-organisms. However, knowledge surrounding the potential for microbial contamination
according to hand-drying methods is limited. This study assessed the potential for
airborne microbe dispersal during hand drying by four methods (paper towels, roller
towel, warm air and jet air dryer) using three different models. The jet air dryer
dispersed liquid from users' hands further and over a greater range (up to 1.5m) than the other drying methods (up to 0.75m), demonstrating the differing potential risks for airborne microbe dissemination,
particularly if handwashing is suboptimal.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 17, 2014
Accepted:
November 19,
2014
Received:
February 24,
2014
Identification
Copyright
© 2015 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
