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subject: Serious Concerns About Hygiene [print this page]

In a study by Kimberly-Clark Professional, 39% of survey

respondents feared picking up germs in a public restroom more

than any other place. Is there good reason for the fear or are

people overly concerned? Can you reduce the risks?

WHAT'S IN THERE - CAN IT HURT YOU?

Without getting too specific, there are many germs that can

thrive in restrooms. Bacteria live off of moisture and organic

food (or waste)- which can be plentiful in public restrooms.

Fears of contacting STD's (sexually transmitted diseases) from a

public washroom have more to do with the fear of the disease than

the likelihood of picking it up in a washroom. Many of these

bacteria and viruses do not live long enough outside the body to

be easily transmitted. However, some experts admit there is a

theoretical risk of herpes or crabs being contracted under

certain - but unlikely - conditions. Some public facilities

provide flushable toilet seat covers, antibacterial cleansers or

you can line the seat with toilet paper.

Of greater concern are salmonella and shigella bacteria which can

be transferred by contact with feces. The infected person can

transmit the bacteria on their hands which can then be

transferred to flushing handles, door handles and faucets.

RESTROOM HYGIENE - BATTLING BACTERIA

Foul odors, lack of supplies and puddles on the floors can all be

signs of improper maintenance.

Odor that comes from public washrooms can be caused by urine in

tile grouting. If the floors aren't properly cleaned daily (or

more) then the uric acid salts will not be removed with regular

cleansers. These salts provide a food source for bacteria whose

digestive processes give off the foul odor.

Products like MicroGuard (tm) from AllDura and even stainless

steel can reduce the maintenance required to keep bacteria growth

to a minimum.

A lack of supplies (toilet paper, hand drying towels or soap) can

also increase the unhygienic conditions of a restroom. Overly

crowded restrooms can suffer from a lack of supplies or a lack of

available sinks, soap dispensers or dryers.

PERSONAL HYGIENE - THE MAGIC WEAPON

It is the simple truth that hand washing will drastically cut the

chance for germ transference. A study done by Scott Papers found

that more than nine out of ten respondents claimed to wash their

hands when using public restrooms. However, only 67% were

actually observed doing so.

As manufacturers of paper products, including towels, the company

also states that drying hands thoroughly is imperative in

practicing proper hygiene. The moisture left on hands can still

carry bacteria. Because of this, air drying machines may not be

enough protection since many individuals do not use them long

enough to thoroughly dry their hands.

The knowledge that proper washing and drying can protect you from

even unsavory public restrooms is comforting. The fact that

public washrooms still need to provide the basics for good

hygiene, as well as good maintenance is something that needs

work. Carrying an antibacterial gel for emergency use is

recommended when visiting a public area.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes

only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any

disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any

health care program.

http://www.optimumpestcontrol.com/

by: Plumstech

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