SDA Says Common Sense Needed in Discussions About Hand Sanitizer Use

WASHINGTON, D.C. Headlines surrounding the inappropriate use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers neglect to mention that the products are used safely and effectively by millions of people every single day, according to the Soap and Detergent Association (SDA). Recent news stories have hyped reports about a few isolated cases where individuals improperly ingested amounts of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which are meant to be applied to ones hands.

This entire discussion needs a good dose of common sense, says Nancy Bock, SDA vice president of education.  Simply put, hand sanitizers are safe when used as directed. These hygiene products play a vital role in helping to prevent the spread of germs that can make us sick, adds Bock, who served as 2006 chair of the National Poison Prevention Week Council. Sanitizers are used safely and effectively in hospitals, health care facilities, homes, schools and offices on a daily basis. When isolated examples of misuse or improper storage of hygiene products are reported, common sense needs to prevail.  As with any consumer product, read the label and follow the directions. Keep sanitizers out of the reach of small children. Store the product properly.

Bock adds further, Calls for product re-labeling or overly restrictive limits on product availability ignore the valuable role these products already play in ensuring good health practices.  Hand sanitizers whether they are alcohol-based or not are part of daily hand hygiene routines, especially when individuals are not near soap and water.

Source: Soap and Detergent Association