Do Hand Sanitisers Kill Viruses?

How hand sanitiser works

Hand sanitisers work to kill and destroy germs, bacteria, and viruses. Viruses are actually a collection of molecules that need a host, like the warmth of a human body, to survive. Meanwhile, germs and bacteria can live inside or outside the body. These harmful cells all have a fatty exterior, a membrane that can be broken down and destroyed with good hand sanitiser. 

The active ingredient that helps hand sanitisers kill germs, viruses, and bacteria is alcohol, which is why you may have noticed some hand sanitisers carry a powerful aroma of neat spirits. 

Is high alcohol content best?

Studies have shown that only 60% alcohol is needed to kill harmful bacteria and viruses effectively. If the alcohol content is higher, it will dry your hands out more than necessary. Many hand sanitisers are formulated with emollients that work to nourish and moisturise your skin, delivering a balance of protection while killing germs. 

Where should hand sanitiser dispensers be located?

Hand sanitisers are often used immediately after a user has washed their hands, and studies show that using hand sanitiser on well-hydrated hands is more effective than sanitising very dry hands. For this reason, and for convenience in user washroom habits, the siting of many hand sanitiser dispensers is close to the wash basin. However, many environments, including hospitals, schools, and some office buildings, are also choosing to site Hand Sanitiser Dispensers just outside the washroom. This doubles down on the spread of bacteria or infection, as the washroom door is actually a touchpoint that can undermine our best efforts in controlling viruses and the spread of bacteria. 

Hand sanitiser is one of the most powerful ways to prevent the spread of viruses and a cornerstone of any infection prevention and control. In light of the Coronavirus, washrooms across all sectors have strengthened the hygiene of their toilets. To find out how, take a look at our article on How to Make Your Washrooms Safe and Hygienic. 

You can learn more about hand sanitisers and their effectiveness in commercial settings here. 

Or if you’d like to explore hand sanitiser options for your washroom or need help selecting the right model, please get in touch with one of our team on 01202 014274.