Top Microbiologist to Present New Research on Paper Towel vs. Hot Air Dryers

Compelling new research on hand drying in public washrooms will be presented by highly respected microbiologist Keith Redway  (photo) from the University of Westminster during the Eighth European Public Health Conference EPH) in Milan, Italy, October 14-17. Given the importance of the subject matter, Redway has agreed to reveal findings from his brand new study, currently undergoing peer review, and share them with delegates at the EPH. 

 

His presentation, titled Comparison of virus dispersal and aerosolization by different hand-drying devices will include key facts and figures and underline the importance of correct hand drying in preventing the spread of infection in public washrooms.

 

Previous studies undertaken by the Universities of Leeds and Westminster have found that jet air and warm air hand dryers can spread bacteria and fungi in a washroom environment. Redway’s latest study, endorsed by the European Tissue Symposium (ETS), shows that jet and warm air dryers also spread viruses into the air and onto users and people standing nearby. 

 

"The findings provide clear evidence of the optimal hand drying methods in preventing the spread of infection and viruses. They have significant implications for cleaning, facility, and hospitality managers responsible for equipping washrooms in public places," said Redway. 

 

"Correct hand drying is the last stage in completing the hand washing process and forms an important part of basic hygiene for everyone—whether they are in a hospital or a sports stadium," said Roberto Berardi, chairman of the European Tissue Symposium. "Despite a trend for sophisticated drying machines in recent years it appears that traditional, single use towels, for example paper hand towels, offer an unsurpassed level of hygiene when drying hands after a visit to the washroom."

 

ETS is the European Tissue Paper Industry Association. The members of ETS represent the majority of tissue paper producers throughout Europe and around 90% of the total European tissue production. ETS was founded in 1971 and is based in Brussels, Belgium. 

 

More information is available online, including a video that summarizes Ridgeway’s study. Another video compares hand drying with hot air units versus paper towels.