Health inspectors and any health type professionals for that matter always push for more handwashing as it is the best measure to reduce spread of microorganisms. Proper handwashing involves lathering with soap and water using friction for 10 seconds or so, then drying with a clean paper towel. Hand air dryers are not recommended because they simply don’t dry hands efficiently. This results in moist hands that support microbial growth and therefore defeating the purpose of handwashing altogether.
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The New Zealand Herald reports,
A third of New Zealand’s schools are using hand dryers that are potentially leaving children’s hands dirtier than when they left the toilet cubicle.
The findings come from a study in which 400 New Zealand parents and 100 schools were asked about washroom hygiene.
SCA Hygiene Australasia commissioned the study in a bid to learn more about washroom behaviour, fears about the upcoming flu season and the best way to reduce bacteria on hands during the drying process.
SCA spokesman Mark Stevens said not all hand drying methods were created equal – but not everyone was aware of that fact.
"Most people know that washing your hands with soap and water is important but it is the method that you then use to dry them that determines how clean your hands are.
"The key is getting your hands dry because germs thrive in a moist environment."