Hand Sanitizers are Safe, Beneficial When Used as Directed

With cases of intentional misuse of alcohol-based hand sanitizers being widely reported, the American Cleaning Institute (formerly The Soap and Detergent Association) offers reminders that the products provide key benefits when properly used.

Intentional misuse of hand sanitizers should not discourage the use of a product that contributes daily to public health, says Nancy Bock, ACI's senior vice president of education. Simply put, hand sanitizers are safe when used as directed. One case of product misuse intentional or otherwise is always one too many. But lets not lose sight of the fact that millions of people are not abusing these products and do responsibly use them as needed.

Bock noted that hand sanitizers are part of regular hand hygiene routines, especially when individuals are not near soap and water.  These products are used safely and effectively in homes, schools, child care centers, offices, hospitals, and healthcare facilities every single day, she adds.

ACIs website features a summary of research on the health benefits of hand sanitizers: www.cleaninginstitute.org/clean_living/public_health_benefits_of_hand_sanitizers.aspx.