This is partially due to the fact that the drying friction caused by the paper towel can remove dirt, grease, bacteria and skin squames from the hands. Along with removing bacteria on fingers and palms, paper towels can also be used to protect customers against other germ-infested objects in washrooms. Selecting The Best Solution So, how does a facility manager select the best towel dispenser for their facility? Similar to the evaluation process between hand dryers and paper towel dispensers, purchasers should assess solutions based on hygiene and waste reduction. According to the American Journal of Infection Control , bacteria, such as those that cause the influenza virus, can thrive and linger on surfaces for up to 72 hours. As a result, mechanical towel dispensers may contain more bacteria and microorgan-isms than touchless dispensers that do not have a common touch point. The touchless feature of touchless paper towel dispensers can help reduce the risk of cross-contamination because users aren’t required to crank or pull a lever that may harbor more bacteria. Several touchless dispensers also offer one-at-a-time dispensing options and con-trolled sheet length settings that can help minimize overuse and waste. When purchasing products or solutions for public areas in commercial buildings, decision-makers should always evaluate the needs and preferences of their tenants. Researching the capabilities and func-tionality of a specific product and listening to a user’s preferences can help facility managers determine the best solution for a particular environment. According to the “Washroom Products Survey,” 79 percent of participants preferred touchless towel dispensers to air dryers. By not offering a drying solution that is preferred by the majority of users, facility managers can create an environment that may deter tenants and guests from properly washing and drying their hands. Join The Handwashing Movement Whether it is an office building, hospital or university, facility managers should provide their tenants and guests with restroom solu-tions that are hygienic, easy to use and efficient. In the handwashing process, hand drying can be just as important as using clean water and soap. This final step helps remove the residual water on a person’s hands, minimizing the chance for microorganisms to colonize. Paper towel dispensers, specifically touch-less towel dispensers, have been proven to help reduce cross-contamination in rest-rooms and decrease the amount of bacteria on a user’s hands. CM ELIMINATES ODORS original formula NEW products cigarette smoke dumpster & chute ire & lood laundry TO REQUEST A SAMPLE Phone • E-mail • Visit our Website 888.873.3442 www.odorcide.com [email protected] Circle Product Information no. 212 on page 32 Circle Product Information no. 220 on page 32 www.cmmonline.com 29
CMM – Archives Sept 2011: 29
