Comparison of different hand-drying methods: the potential for airborne microbe dispersal and contamination

E L Best; K Redway

doi:10.1016/j.jhin.2014.11.007

Comparison of different hand-drying methods: the potential for airborne microbe dispersal and contamination

J Hosp Infect. 2015 Mar;89(3):215-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2014.11.007. Epub 2014 Dec 17.

Authors

E L Best¹, K Redway²

Affiliations

¹ Microbiology Department, Old Medical School, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK. Electronic address: emma.best@leedsth.nhs.uk.
² Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, London, UK.

PMID: 25586988
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2014.11.007

Abstract

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 0.75 m), demonstrating the differing potential risks for airborne microbe dissemination, particularly if handwashing is suboptimal.

Keywords: Environmental contamination; Hand hygiene; Hand washing; Hygiene.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Air Microbiology
Colony Count, Microbial
Cross Infection / prevention & control
Hand / microbiology*
Hand Disinfection / methods*
Humans