Benefits Of Sanitizers In Class A Facilities

In this Manufacturer Roundtable, Facility Cleaning Decisions took the compilation of questions we received from readers and asked soap/sanitizer manufacturers to weigh in.

Are there various qualities of foam hand sanitizers, and if so, what are the benefits to using a high-end product? What types of areas is it best suited for?
Alcohol hand sanitizers, by nature, can be drying and some gel hand sanitizer formulas are often thin and watery. Foam sanitizer products are less mess than the thinner gel hand sanitizer because the product is less likely to run off your hands.
Some higher-end foaming hand sanitizer products contain added moisturizers to help soften skin. These higher-end sanitizer products can be used anywhere, such as airports, hospitals, hotels, schools, restaurants, office buildings and schools.
— Ronald Lewis, Associate Brand Manager, Diversified Markets, Henkel Consumer Goods, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona

There are various qualities of foam hand sanitizers that are available in alcohol-based and non-alcohol based formulations. Some even contain moisturizers to prevent drying of the skin, specifically designed for frequent use.
According to the CDC, many studies have found that sanitizers with an alcohol concentration between 60 and 95 percent are more effective at killing germs than those with a lower alcohol concentration or non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers. It is important to select a product with a high spectrum of efficacy.
High quality foam hand sanitizing products usually are manufactured in closed, sealed cartridges that prevent the entrance of air and minimize the risk of microbial contamination. The dispensing mechanisms usually provide optimal product shot size with collapsing cartridges to ensure full evacuation of the product and minimize product wastage. Some dispensers are even protected with an antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of a broad spectrum of bacteria and molds. Additionally, high-end products are more economically friendly. Most cartridge components, containers and packaging are recyclable with formulations that are biodegradable. 
Alcohol-based foam hand sanitizers are ideal for food manufacturing, foodservice and healthcare facilities. Non-alcohol based foam hand sanitizers are ideal for situations where alcohol-based/flammable products are a concern such as schools or prisons.
— Isabelle Faivre, Vice President of Marketing, North America, Deb Group, Charlotte, North Carolina

Are there facility types that should not feature hand sanitizers for any reason?
No. Hand sanitizers gel or foam can and should be used anywhere. There is no reason for us to wait for the next H1N1 to help stop the spread of disease-causing germs.
— Ronald Lewis, Associate Brand Manager, Diversified Markets, Henkel Consumer Goods, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona

Some facilities require non-alcohol hand sanitizer for areas where alcohol-based/flammable products are a concern such as schools, prisons, health institutions...
— Isabelle Faivre, Vice President of Marketing, North America, Deb Group, Charlotte, North Carolina