Hand disinfection

What do I need to know about hand disinfection products?

-What are the hand disinfection products? They are liquid or gel products that block and neutralize a large percentage of germs (from 99% to 99.9%). While it is impossible to eliminate all germs, hand sanitizers are very successful in helping bacteria disappear so there is less risk of infecting people around you (family, co-workers, friends, etc.).

-What is the best hand disinfection? It is not easy to pick out which is the best hand sanitizer as there are many products with different effects (scented, moisturizing, with or without alcohol, etc.), however Purell, a GOJO brand is considered to be the most reliable manufacturer of antiseptic products, as it is the first choice of doctors and hospitals worldwide for antiseptic and disinfectant products for surfaces, body, etc.

-How long does hand sanitizer take to work? Approximately 20 seconds is enough for a hand sanitizer to take effect. No rinsing or wiping is required as it dries in a very short time on its own.

-When should we use hand sanitizer? Choose hand antiseptic only when there is no access to water and soap. Do not use antiseptic when there is visible dirt on your hands (e.g. mud). Make sure your antiseptic contains at least 60% alcohol to be effective.

-What does hand sanitizer kill? Alcohol-based hand antiseptics kill most bacteria, and fungi and prevent some viruses. Alcohol sanitizers containing at least 70% alcohol (mostly ethyl alcohol) kill 99% of bacteria on hands 30 seconds after application and 99% to 99.999% in one minute.

-Are all antiseptics efficient? No. When it comes to hand sanitizing products, consistency matters. The active ingredient (e.g. alcohol) is an important factor, but the overall formulation affects the effectiveness of the product. The main advantage of most hand sanitizers is that they offer care to the skin and are pleasant to use. Because of the alcohol they contain, they are very likely to cause dryness to the skin so many products contain some moisturizing oil.

-Does hand sanitizer work as effectively for cleaning surfaces? Due to the fact that they contain alcohol, hand sanitizers are also able to clean objects/surfaces. However, there is a wide variety commercially available of surface disinfectants for disinfecting and cleaning on countertops and surgical instrument disinfectants that are specific for this use.

-Can I use an antiseptic on a wound? The proper way to care for a small wound or scratch is, first, to stop the bleeding by applying pressure. Then, clean the wound with a wound cleanser and then dress it with a bandage. Putting antiseptic on the wound is not advisable as it contains alcohol and other additional ingredients that can damage the tissue. Placing a product with such a high percentage of alcohol on the wound does not feel pleasant. Clean water and soap around the wound are suggested.

-Can I use an antiseptic or hand sanitizer before eating? In cases where there is no access to water and soap, hand antiseptic is the ideal solution. It’s easy to carry with you at all times (in the car, on the bus, or on the road) and the perfect quick fix when you need to eat something with your hands.