The importance of washroom cleanliness

On 17th May 2016, Ecolab held a free webinar on the importance of washroom cleanliness and its impact on public health and brand perception. John H. Hanlin, Ph.D. VP, global public health, Ecolab and Peter Beichel, marketing director, facility care and hospitality, talked about the public health risks found within public washrooms, its impact on brand perception and gave an overview of strategies to help reduce the risk of infection.  

Key takeaways from the webinar were: Washrooms are a haven for gastro-intestinal and respiratory pathogens; a person can unknowingly contaminate their hands by touching washroom surfaces including flush levers, taps and door handles; and having procedures, tools and trained associates can help you reduce infection risk and enhance brand image.

Ecolab’s six tips to maintain a cleaner, safer and healthier washroom to help reduce infection risks and enhance brand image are: 1) Promote good hand hygiene practices; 2) Establish cleaning and disinfecting frequencies to make sure you always leave that clean first impression; 3) Clean and disinfect surfaces especially hand contact surfaces such as door handles more frequently, using BPR registered products effective against bacteria and common viruses; 4) Implement methods to avoid cross contamination; 5) Combat odours from the source – don’t try and mask; 6) Ensure you have adequate supplies on site at all times including PPE, cleaners, disinfectants, hand soap and paper towels.