Keeping the workplace clean and safe is important these days, especially in places where people work together or share tools. The right hand sanitiser is very important for keeping germs from spreading and making sure employees are healthy. This guide looks at the different kinds of hand sanitisers that are good for workplaces, with a focus on factors that are important for European factories and offices.
1. Understanding Workplace Sanitizers and Their Importance
Cleaning surfaces and hands with workplace sanitisers is an important part of keeping shared areas clean. Spreading germs that can make people sick is slowed down by these sanitisers. This can improve staff health and productivity. The Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and other European rules say that hand sanitisers for the workplace must be safe to use and kill a variety of germs.
2. Key Criteria for Selecting Sanitizers
When choosing the best sanitizers for your workplace, consider the following criteria to ensure safety, compliance, and effectiveness:
a. Effectiveness Against Pathogens
- Search for products that combat a wide range of infections, including fungus, viruses, and bacteria.
- Products should satisfy European guidelines for microbiological effectiveness including EN 14476 (virus inactivation) and EN 1276 (bacterial reduction). These certifications show if a product can reach particular low levels of dangerous organisms.
b. Compatibility with Surface Types
- Certain sanitizers may be suitable for non-porous surfaces, like countertops or doorknobs, while others are formulated for porous materials such as wood or fabric.
- Ensure the sanitizer does not corrode or damage the surfaces in the workplace, especially if they’re used on equipment or electronics.
c. Safety for Frequent Use
- It’s important to choose products that are gentle on skin and don’t irritate workers, especially hand sanitisers, because many workplaces need to be cleaned regularly.
- Verify that the product contains skin-friendly ingredients, like emollients, to reduce dryness and irritation for employees using hand sanitizers multiple times daily.
d. Ease of Use and Accessibility
- Opt for sanitizers that are easy to apply, such as sprays, wipes, or dispensers, especially for high-traffic areas.
- Consider touchless dispensers to limit cross-contamination in shared spaces.
3. Types of Workplace Sanitizers
Multiple sanitisers may be needed in different settings to make sure they are completely clean. These are some popular choices:
a. Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
- Composition: These sanitizers typically contain 60-80% alcohol, which is highly effective against a broad range of microorganisms.
- Applications: Ideal for individual use, especially in office settings, meeting rooms, or near entry points.
- Pros: Quick drying and efficient.
- Cons: Can cause dryness with frequent use. Some individuals may be sensitive to the scent or feel of alcohol.
b. Non-Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
- Composition: Often includes active ingredients like benzalkonium chloride (BAC) or chlorhexidine.
- Applications: Suitable for environments with sensitive individuals or for staff with skin conditions.
- Pros: Generally less drying, making them suitable for frequent use.
- Cons: May not be as broadly effective as alcohol-based alternatives; best to confirm they meet local regulatory standards.
c. Surface Sanitizers
- Composition: Commonly includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds (quats).
- Applications: Designed for use on desks, counters, equipment, and other high-touch surfaces.
- Pros: Available in sprays, wipes, and fogging solutions for easy application.
- Cons: Some types may require proper ventilation during use due to strong fumes.
d. Disinfectant Wipes
- Composition: Often pre-saturated with a mix of alcohol or quats.
- Applications: Effective for quickly disinfecting small areas or individual workstations.
- Pros: Convenient and portable; useful in high-traffic areas.
- Cons: Limited coverage; not ideal for larger surfaces.
4. Regulatory Standards and Compliance in Europe
European countries have strict rules about how disinfectants and sanitisers can be used. When picking out goods, make sure they meet the following standards:
- The Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) says: Makes sure that goods work and are safe to use by making sure they have registered active ingredients and allowed uses.
- Standards in Europe (EN Tests): Check to see if the cleaner meets EN standards such as EN 1276 for killing bacteria, EN 14476 for killing viruses, and EN 13624 for killing fungus. These standards prove that the product has been put through a lot of tests to make sure it kills microbes.
5. Tips for Implementation and Employee Training
Putting hand sanitisers in open places isn’t enough to make them work well. It needs training and understanding for employees:
a. Placement of Sanitizer Stations
- Position hand sanitizing stations near entry points, meeting rooms, and high-traffic areas to encourage regular use.
- Place surface sanitizer wipes or sprays in shared spaces, such as break rooms, kitchens, and near electronic equipment, for easy access.
b. Providing Usage Instructions
- The importance of frequent hand washing is emphasised by clear, obvious directions placed near hand sanitiser stations.
- Give people directions on how to properly clean their hands and daily reminders to sanitise shared areas.
c. Employee Education
- Host brief training sessions on the importance of regular sanitizing, focusing on how it contributes to workplace safety and health.
- Educate employees on the types of sanitizers available, how to use them, and any precautions (e.g., avoiding contact with eyes, using moisturizer for skin health).
6. Environmental Considerations
The sanitisers used at work can show how environmentally friendly the company is when they try to be sustainable:
a. Eco-Friendly Sanitizers
- Seek sanitizers labeled as biodegradable or eco-certified, as these contain ingredients that break down more easily, minimizing their environmental impact.
- Stay away from hand sanitisers that have a lot of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), because they can make indoor air quality worse and add to pollution.
b. Refillable Dispensers
- Choose dispensers with refill options to reduce plastic waste. Refillable dispensers can be cost-effective and support sustainable practices.
7. Ensuring Sanitizer Availability During Supply Shortages
- Establish connections with multiple suppliers to avoid shortages.
- Explore bulk purchasing options that ensure a steady supply.
- Consider partnering with local or regional suppliers that prioritize stock for workplace clients.
Conclusion
Choosing the finest sanitisers for workplace safety requires knowing the particular requirements of your surroundings and following European regulatory criteria. The best strategy combines staff awareness with regular application with premium products. Workplaces may improve health protection, lower contamination, and create a safer workplace across Europe by carefully selecting sanitisers that satisfy environmental and safety criteria.
