Lisa
There is only a limited number of studies on the pros and cons of different
hand drying methods. Many of these were funded by the
manufacturers/protagonists of the different methods, so their objectivity is
somewhat questionable. However, you might find the following helpful:
Blackmore M, Hand drying methods, Nursing Times, 1987, 83, 37, 71-74
Taylor L J, An evaluation of hand washing techniques, Nursing Times, Jan 12,
1978, 54-55
In addition, in Essentials of Industrial Dermatology, Prof. Burrows comments
along the following lines: "Drying is equally important. There are three
acceptable methods: 1. disposable paper towels,
2. Pulldown type roller towel (aka linen cabinet towel)
3. hot air drying - if workers are using a substance which has a tendency to
degrease the skin, a hot air drier may aggravate this problem and should
only be used in conjunction with an emollient cream to apply after use.
With hot air driers consider also: (a) they take time to dry the skin,
typically 30 secs, and can only be used by one person at a time. In an
industrial situation where washrooms are subjected to heavy periodic use,
say at the end of a shift, you will need an inordinate number of driers if
users are not to have to wait for a long time. (b) the hygiene of a hot air
drier is dependent upon the quality of the air drawn into the unit. If
located in the washroom there is a risk that it will draw in airborne
bacteria and spread this over the users' hands. So location is important.
This subject is dealt with in more detail in "Essentials of Occupational
Skin Management" - see www.enviroderm.co.uk for details.
If you need to know more then contact me off list. You can reach me on 01386
832 311 or 07818 035 898 if I am not in the office.
Regards
Chris Packham
EnviroDerm Services
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