Global Handwashing Day Illuminates Why Hand Hygiene is a Valuable Habit
Oct 14, 2016, 07:18 ET
MILWAUKEE, Oct. 14, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- For many of us, washing our hands is a habit acquired in our early years. We almost unconsciously link hand washing to everyday activities like using the bathroom, eating and preparing meals.
But, on a global scale, the hand washing habit has yet to completely solidify. In some circumstances, skipping hand washing is due to lack of awareness and understanding of its effectiveness in washing away illness-inducing germs and bacteria. In other cases, it's due to a scarcity of hand washing elements, including soap and water.
That's why on October 15, millions of people worldwide are recognizing the necessity and benefits of hand washing with soap by participating in Global Handwashing Day, established by Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing (PPPHW).
"Global Handwashing Day reminds us all that developing a regular habit of hand washing with soap is the most basic and efficient way to counteract illnesses and diseases," said Jon Dommisse, director of global marketing and strategic development for Bradley Corporation, an international manufacturer of commercial hand washing products. "This annual event underscores how the simple act of washing hands, which we sometimes take for granted, can improve our health and well-being – and ultimately save lives around the world."
According to the PPPHW, research shows hand washing with soap can cut the incidence of diarrhea by almost one-half and acute respiratory infections by nearly one-quarter. In all, this simple action can help prevent illnesses that contribute to the deaths of 1.7 million children worldwide each year.
The mission of this annual event is to encourage and support a global and local culture of hand washing with soap, highlight the state of hand washing around the world, and build awareness of the health benefits of hand washing, particularly with soap. The event is endorsed by numerous governments, international institutions, civil society organizations, nongovernmental organizations, private companies, and individuals worldwide.
Americans' Hand Washing Habits
Since 2009, Bradley Corp. has conducted a Healthy Hand Washing Survey to keep its pulse on Americans' hand washing habits in public restrooms. The annual survey has revealed a key disconnect between Americans' words and actions. Just 69 percent of those surveyed say they always wash up after using a public restroom – even though the vast majority believe it's important to do so. And, almost 80 percent report they frequently or occasionally see others leave a public restroom without washing their hands, particularly in the men's room.
When asked to cite the reasons for not washing their hands in restrooms, most respondents pointed to the absence of soap, nonworking and unclean sinks, and a lack of paper towels. Unfortunately, almost 70 percent say they've had an unpleasant experience due to the conditions in a public restroom – which represents an increase from 51 percent in 2012.
"Medical experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agree that developing a habit of consistent and thorough hand washing with soap and water is the best prevention of cold and flu germs and the spread of other contagious illnesses seen around the globe like diarrhea and pneumonia," Dommisse said.
"In addition to advocating access to and education of universal hand washing practices, Global Handwashing Day is a great reminder for businesses and facilities to ensure they are providing clean and well-maintained facilities that promote thorough hand washing," Dommisse said.
About Bradley Corporation:
For 95 years, Bradley Corporation has designed and manufactured commercial washroom and emergency safety products, and today is the industry's leading source for commercial plumbing fixtures, washroom accessories, restroom partitions, solid plastic lockers, and emergency safety fixtures and industrial grade electric tankless heaters. Headquartered in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Bradley serves the commercial, industrial, health care, retail, and education markets worldwide. For more information, contact Bradley at 1-800-BRADLEY or www.bradleycorp.com.
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SOURCE Bradley Corporation