GERMS in the OFFICE
If you're desk-confined, disinfect your hands with a sanitizer that contains alcohol, such as Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer. Alcohol is a drying agent. It tends to pull water away from the organisms, and that harms them. Used according to the manufacturer's instructions, instant hand sanitizers safely and effectively destroy the majority of bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses. But, it's critical to remember that instant sanitizers are potently toxic chemicals (which is necessary to kill the germs), and if used improperly, they can be dangerous.
The most familiar danger is hand sanitizer poisoning, particularly for young children who are attracted to the fun scents and bright colors of many sanitizers. Most sanitizers contain 60% to 90% alcohol (commonly ethyl or isopropyl alcohol) - a stronger concentration than most hard liquors. Even a small dose can be dangerous if ingested, leading to dizziness, slurred speech, headaches, and even brain damage or fatalities in extreme cases.
To avoid poisoning dangers:
- Avoid using instant sanitizers whenever possible; opt for regular hand washing instead.
- Use only a dime-sized amount of sanitizer; too much liquid may not evaporate quickly and could be licked off fingers or palms.
- Supervise children while using sanitizers to ensure they rub their hands until completely dry.
- Use a foaming formula that will dry more quickly.
- Keep sanitizer bottles out of reach of children just as you would any cleaning chemical.
- Encourage teachers to use baby wipes instead of instant sanitizers.
- Discourage fingernail biting and other habits that bring hands into contact with the mouth or lips.
- Keep the poison control phone number available in case of accidental ingestion.
Avoid the Crowd
Shared space like the office kitchen is a germ magnet. About 20% of the office cups contain coliform bacteria, which is related to fecal contamination.
Opt for a paper cup, or keep your own mug and wash it regularly with dish soap and a paper towel. And when possible, pass on control of the PowerPoint remote in the conference room — the gadgets registered some of the highest bacteria levels.
The most familiar danger is hand sanitizer poisoning, particularly for young children who are attracted to the fun scents and bright colors of many sanitizers. Most sanitizers contain 60% to 90% alcohol (commonly ethyl or isopropyl alcohol) - a stronger concentration than most hard liquors. Even a small dose can be dangerous if ingested, leading to dizziness, slurred speech, headaches, and even brain damage or fatalities in extreme cases.
To avoid poisoning dangers:
- Avoid using instant sanitizers whenever possible; opt for regular hand washing instead.
- Use only a dime-sized amount of sanitizer; too much liquid may not evaporate quickly and could be licked off fingers or palms.
- Supervise children while using sanitizers to ensure they rub their hands until completely dry.
- Use a foaming formula that will dry more quickly.
- Keep sanitizer bottles out of reach of children just as you would any cleaning chemical.
- Encourage teachers to use baby wipes instead of instant sanitizers.
- Discourage fingernail biting and other habits that bring hands into contact with the mouth or lips.
- Keep the poison control phone number available in case of accidental ingestion.
Avoid the Crowd
Shared space like the office kitchen is a germ magnet. About 20% of the office cups contain coliform bacteria, which is related to fecal contamination.
Opt for a paper cup, or keep your own mug and wash it regularly with dish soap and a paper towel. And when possible, pass on control of the PowerPoint remote in the conference room — the gadgets registered some of the highest bacteria levels.
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