Good hand hygiene in schools can reduce the risk of spreading infectious diseases. Our checklist tells you what is important.
1. Wash hands regularly
Most infections are at least partially transmitted by the hands. Hand washing is essential to prevent the spread of viruses such as Coronavirus and Norovirus.
How to wash hands effectively
- hold hands under running water
- add a dose of soap to your palms
- rub hands together and cover all areas with the soap
- rinse hands to remove all soap residue.
- dry the hands thoroughly
Hand washing is recommended in these situations:
- before the start of class
- before and after preparing or eating food.
- after going to the toilet
- after blowing the nose, coughing or sneezing
- after touching waste or cleaning
2. Hand sanitising in schools
Use hand sanitisers in addition to hand washing and in situations where soap and water are not available.
Effective methods of sanitizing:
- apply the product to dry hands
- rub hands, wrists and the area around the fingernails as well as the spaces between the fingers for at least 30 seconds until the skin is completely dry.
- if hands are significantly dirty, use soap and water instead
What is important when choosing the right product?
- According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an effective alcohol-based hand sanitiser should contain 60-80% alcohol and be proven to be effective according to European Standard 1500 or ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials) standards.
- Make also sure that the hand sanitiser has been tested on Coronavirus for proof of effectiveness.
- Some alcohol-based hand sanitisers can dry out the skin. Make sure that the hand sanitiser of your choice contains moisturising agents for healthy skin. This is especially important when used in schools.
Where should hand sanitiser dispensers be positioned?
- in entrance and exit areas
- in toilets
- at the entrance to the canteen
Which dispenser system is right for schools?
We recommend placing PURELL ADX™ manual dispensers for PURELL hand sanitisers in educational facilities.
These dispensers:
- Have a lifetime performance guarantee
- Are easy to maintain, with a large sight window and skylight
- Have SANITARY SEALED™ refills which snap quickly and easily into place. This protects users from the contamination risks of bulk soap
- Accept Controlled Collapse Refills – these patent-pending refills are engineered to hold their shape while emptying
- Refills made with SMART-FLEX™ Technology using 30% less material than rigid HDPE bottles
- Have GOJO LOCK OR NOT™ Technology – they open using dual side latches, or removing the key turns them into lockable cabinets
- Are easy to recycle – removable pump promotes convenient recycling
Stay healthy!
