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Warm air dryers increase bacteria on hands
30/03/2009
A recent study from the University of Westminster, which investigated the differences between warm air dryers and paper towel solutions, demonstrates that warm air dryers may increase the number of bacteria on people’s hands with over 190 percent.
Big differences in drying efficiency
One field of comparison between warm air dryers and paper towels investigated by the research from the University of Westminister, is the drying efficiency.
It shows that it takes the average user 10 seconds to dry their hands by 90% using paper towels, compared to 47 seconds with a warm air dryer. These figures help explain the strong user preference towards paper or linen towel solutions. Research even shows that the mere presence of air dryers may discourage hand washing all together!
Warm air dryers increase number of bacteria on hands
Another field of comparison in the research was the effectiveness of both hand drying solutions. Previous studies have already shown the importance of drying your hands in order to reduce the number or bacteria.
The new research shows that paper towels reduce the number of all types of bacteria on both the finger pads and the palms of the subjects, with an average of 75 percent. Warm air dryers, however did not reduce the number of bacteria, but these actually increased by over 190 percent!
An expert advice by Initial
The results of this study suggest that the use of warm air dryers should be carefully considered in locations where hygiene is especially important, such as schools, hospitals, kitchens, and other public places.
Initial offers various hygienic hand drying solutions, which are offered in a full-service package. The service from Initial starts with a tailored advice for your situation, provided by a sanitary hygiene expert. This expert investigates your situation and wishes, to deliver to a complete service offering which suit your specific needs.
Do you want to receive an expert advice for your washroom? Request a free on-site visit from an Initial expert!
Source: University of Westminster
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