According to a national survey, most Americans wash up for just 15 seconds or less, as opposed to the recommended 20 seconds. This means that it is a good time to remind employees and guests about the importance of thorough hand-washing. On a positive note, 66% of adults was their hands more frequently during flu season.The findings are from the fifth annual Healthy Hand Washing Survey conducted by Bradley Corporation.
“Good hand hygiene is one of the most important and easiest things people can do to reduce the risk of getting sick and spreading germs to others. Using soap and warm water for a good 20 seconds is highly effective in removing bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing microorganisms from the surface of the skin,” says Michael McCann, a professor of biology and associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia.
The survey also shows that Americans go to great lengths to avoid coming into contact with germs in a public restroom. They commonly operate the toilet flusher with their foot (64%); use a paper towel when touching the restroom door (60%); open and close doors with their behind (48%); and use their elbow to avoid touching anything with their hands (39%).
The Healthy Hand Washing survey queried 1,015 American adults (18 years and older) about their hand washing habits. Participants were from around the country and were fairly evenly split between men and women (47 and 53%).
CNA Specialties, Inc.
