The debate between hand dryers and paper towels has been going on since the advent of modern sanitation technologies. However, both methods of hand drying have their benefits and there are certain environments where one may be more suitable than another. Rather than condemn one or the other, the best approach towards making a decision around sanitary products are to familiarise oneself with the relevant areas of consideration.
With the transmission of bacteria “more likely to occur from wet skin than from dry skin,” proper hand drying is an imperative part of the hand washing routine as it minimises the survival and transmission of potentially disease-carrying bacteria. In order to ensure best practice for hygiene, Safe Work Australia, the nation’s governing body on work health and safety, recommends that hand washing facilities contain “hygienic hand drying facilities, for example automatic air dryers or paper towels.”
Paper towels are a quick and efficient method of hand drying. Electric hand dryers offer fast, quiet and hygienic hand drying also. Depending on your budget and preferred method of drying both are excellent options. It is up to the user to be cognisant to ensure that their hands are washed thoroughly and dried properly to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
