Posted By Mark Large Has anyone heard about any change in guidance in regard the use of Liquid soaps please? Our contractors are claiming that there is new EEC guidance that states containers must have all traces of soap removed after each use. This is to prevent a build up of live agents that can cause dermatitis. If their claim is correct we may need to purchase containers different to what we are currently using.

Posted By Roger Smith The subject of what type of soap dispenser to supply seems reminiscent of the argument about the most hygienic way to dry hands once they are clean. I have been asked the same question several times in the past and keep the following stock response on file:- The position with regard to health, safety and welfare is that there are suitable means to wash hands and also to dry them properly. There have been several scientific papers published in recent years to determine which of the three main methods of hand drying is the most hygienic. The results of the research rather depended upon the interests of the company which commissioned the work. There are no real problems with any of the three types of drying system. But... Although roller towels may appear to be clean, there is no way of knowing whether or not the portion of towel has been previously used and has simply dried. Use of this portion of towel may contaminate your hands. One solution may be to pull the towel through before each use, (but this involves touching the previously used and possibly contaminated section of towel!). Paper towels need to be put into bins. These become warm, dark and damp. A perfect environment for microbes to develop. The bins eventually need to be emptied out by somebody and can also make the place look messy. Another problem with common to both paper towels and roller towels is that they may from time to time run out. This leaves you with nothing to dry your hands on at all. Hot air dryers are always available. They need electricity but properly installed and maintained this is not a problem. They don't always work efficiently. People end up drying their hands on their clothes or by waving them in the air as they make their way back to their working position. Hot air dryers work by drawing in air from the surrounding area and heating it up. This provides a nice environment for microbes to develop. Any microbes inside the machine are blown over the previously clean hands of the user. NB, Assuming you have successfully washed and dried your hands without recontamination, your next task is to open the door to the toilet using the handle which may previously have been operated by someone who did not wash their hands at all! You pay your money and you take your choice. A decision based upon cost, practicality for your work environment and personal preference is perfectly acceptable. Good luck in there! Roger

Posted By Mark Large Thanks for the responses. We asked them to back it up. They've gone silent.