Clean Hands, Smart Choice: A Decision-Making Guide for Hand Sanitizers
Hand sanitizers are critical in maintaining hygiene in commercial settings, especially in high-traffic areas like offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. They serve as a convenient and effective alternative to handwashing when soap and water are not readily available. However, it is important to remember that washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to remove germs in most situations.
Selecting the right hand sanitizer for your facility is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness. The type of sanitizer used can impact the overall user experience, affecting occupant satisfaction. Understanding the differences between alcohol-based and alcohol-free hand sanitizers can help you make informed decisions that align with your facility's needs.
Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
Key Ingredient: Ethanol
Ethanol, commonly called ethyl alcohol, is the primary germ-killing ingredient in many alcohol-based hand sanitizers. It works by breaking down the protective outer membranes of germs, effectively killing bacteria and viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that alcohol-based hand sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol to ensure effectiveness.
Product Example: Affinity Foaming Instant Hand Sanitizer Foam
Advantages of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
- Highly Effective: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are known for their superior ability to kill a wide range of germs. Their effectiveness is supported by extensive research and guidelines from organizations like the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Fast-Acting: These sanitizers work almost instantly, making them an ideal choice for busy environments where quick germ control is essential. In just a few seconds, they can significantly reduce the number of germs on hands.
Disadvantages of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
- Can Dry Skin: The high alcohol content can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. To combat this, look for formulas enriched with skin-conditioning ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin.
- Flammability: Due to their alcohol content, these sanitizers are flammable and require careful storage, particularly in facilities where fire safety is a concern. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet for more information.
Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizers
Key Ingredient: Benzalkonium Chloride
Benzalkonium chloride is a common active ingredient in alcohol-free hand sanitizers. It also kills germs by disrupting their cellular membranes, effectively destroying some bacteria and viruses.
Product Example: Affinity Alcohol-Free Foaming Instant Hand Sanitizer Foam
Advantages of Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizers
- Gentler on Skin: Alcohol-free hand sanitizers are often less irritating, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin conditions. These formulations often include moisturizing agents to protect the skin further.
- Safe in Specific Situations: Alcohol-free options are preferred in environments where the risk of intentional ingestion may be a concern, such as schools, daycare centers, and correctional facilities. This makes them a safer alternative for vulnerable populations.
- Non-Flammable: Unlike their alcohol-based counterparts, alcohol-free sanitizers are non-flammable, which can be advantageous in facilities with fire safety concerns.
Disadvantages of Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizers
- CDC Recommendation: The CDC recommends alcohol-based hand sanitizers due to their broader germ-killing spectrum.
- Slower Action: Alcohol-free sanitizers may take longer to reduce germ counts, which can be less convenient in fast-paced environments.
Hillyard Can Help You Manage Your Hand Sanitizing Program
Providing reliable hand sanitizing solutions is a critical component of facility management. Ensuring that employees, occupants, and visitors have access to effective hand hygiene products can reduce the spread of germs and promote a healthier environment.
Hillyard offers expertise in developing comprehensive hand sanitizing programs tailored to your facility’s specific needs. From selecting the right combination of hand sanitizers and soaps to ensuring proper placement and supply management, Hillyard can help you implement a solution that prioritizes safety and convenience.
By partnering with Hillyard, you can focus on your core operations while ensuring that your hand hygiene program is effective and well-maintained. Use the "I'm Interested" form below and one of our representatives will contact you.