Approximately 80% of infections are transmitted through hands. Implementing effective hand hygiene practices in the workplace is crucial. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prioritizing hand hygiene is the most crucial measure for preventing the transmission of harmful germs. Placing hand sanitizers strategically within the office can significantly contribute to better hand hygiene, fostering a safer and healthier work environment.
Key locations for hand sanitizer placement include:
- Entrances & Exits:
Door handles are common hotspots for germs. Install hand sanitizer dispensers at main entrance and exit doors, as well as other high-traffic doorways like those leading to restrooms and meeting rooms.
- Meeting Rooms:
Meeting rooms, where individuals from different parts of the building or even other companies gather, pose a high risk for germ transmission. Providing hand sanitizer stations outside meeting room doors or on meeting tables can ensure germ-free interactions.
- Break Rooms and Eating Areas:
Shared kitchens and break rooms are notorious for harboring germs. Maintaining clean hands and a hygienic environment is essential to minimize the risk of illness.
- Individual Desks:
Desks, phones, and computer accessories are frequent contact points for germs. Since employees spend a significant portion of their day at their desks, providing individual hand sanitizer bottles can encourage regular hand hygiene.
- Elevators and Touchscreens:
Elevator buttons and touchscreens are hiding spots for germs, even with regular cleaning. Placing hand sanitizer dispensers next to these locations can reduce the risk of contamination.
When selecting hand sanitizer for the workplace, choosing the right type is essential. Opt for an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a minimum alcohol content of 70% or an alcohol-free hand sanitizer containing active ingredients like benzalkonium chloride. Additionally, choose sanitizers with moisturizing ingredients to prevent skin dryness.
Maintaining strong hand hygiene practices in the workplace creates a safer and healthier environment for employees. By strategically placing hand sanitizers and selecting the right type, companies can play a pivotal role in reducing infection transmission and ensuring the well-being of their workforce.