FOCUS WASHROOMS
WASH AND GO The washroom is likely to be at the heart of any FM strategy to help keep non-domestic buildings
infection free. FMJ asked a group of washroom experts to answer some frequently asked questions
on ways of keeping COVID clear
We began by asking how FMs can
help encourage people to wash
their hands regularly, as it’s one of
the most basic but e ect ways of
preventing the spread of infection. With
the recommended amount of time for
washing your hands being between 20 –
30 seconds(i) this is a much longer period
than people think.
Mark Jankovich, CEO, Delphis Eco
explains that when you consider that
most people only wash their hands for six
seconds(ii) and around 33 per cent of people
don’t use soap when washing their hands;
“a key factor to help ensure users wash
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their hands correctly will be the provision of
hand sanitiser within washrooms alongside
the traditional washroom products.”
Clear signage in washrooms can act as a
useful reminder to encourage good hygiene
practices say Sam Rylands, Marketing Manager,
DURABLE UK. “Within washrooms, signage
is best placed next to the sinks using a table
presenter or on the walls and mirrors in direct
eye line. Use eye-catching frames and notices
so that the messages are clear and not easily
ignored.
“Depending on the size of your washrooms,
additional signage can be placed on the floor
to remind users to keep a safe distance apart.
Floor markings can help people to judge
distances more accurately. If sinks are too
close together, use cross markings to indicate
that every other sink is out of use.”
The availability and quality of the soap
dispensers will also influence behaviours
says Chris Wakefield, VP, European Marketing
& Product Development at GOJO Industries-
Europe.
“Washrooms must be well-maintained, wellstocked,
and regularly monitored. A er all,
people are unable to wash their hands if the
soap has dispenser has run empty. Product
choice is also crucial. When you consider
that approximately 60 per cent of the