Why is Hand Hygiene Important?

The importance of good hand hygiene in the prevention of healthcare-acquired infections in hospitals has been the subject of numerous articles and research papers. However, it is equally relevant in other environments such as care and residential homes. It is well known that the hands of patients, visitors and healthcare workers are a major factor in the spread of problems such as MRSA, viral gastroenteritis and CDAD.

The World Alliance for Patient Safety (part of the WHO), has set good hand hygiene as a major part of its first global challenge to tackle healthcare-acquired infections.

Hand Sanitizing Agents

Most hand hygiene agents are alcohol based, but there are problems associated with the use of these preparations: 

Introducing GH Gel

Germicidal Hand Gel from Scotmas is based on a patented formulation of stabilized chlorine dioxide and a quaternary ammonium compound. Chlorine dioxide is a well known broad spectrum biocidal agent with proven activity against a vast range of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria including bacterial spores. It also has broad fungicidal and virucidal activity, the latter including against SRSVs.

This alcohol-free hand hygiene agent kills 99% of microorganisms within 30 seconds and is designed for use between patient contacts and after contact with contaminated surfaces. Unlike alcohol preparations GH Gel has a residual activity of up to four hours, and does not produce any allergic or sensitizing reactions even after repeated usage. It is non-toxic, non-corrosive and totally bio-degradable.

GH Gel is available in convenient personal dispensers, or as refillable wall-mounted units, to help increase compliance with Good Hygiene practices. GH Soap is also available for use when traditional hand washing is preferred, or is required to remove visible soiling