Conservation of water during handwashing.

Abstract

Wastage of water during handwashing is an issue that has received insufficient attention. The problem results from the need to avoid re-contamination of hands during hand washing, and has been addressed by using running water, and not touching the tap to turn off the flow of water during the procedure. This video of a standard non-surgical scrub provides a clear illustration of the problem with 75% of the water being wasted. The volume of water used in handwashing is determined by its duration, the rate of water flow, and how often the procedure is performed. Conservation of water during handwashing can be achieved by the use of various devices to turn off the tap when water is not required. Other methods of water conservation are avoidance of excessively long handwashing, usage of a moderate water flow rate, and the appropriate use of alcohol hand rub. It is hoped that this reminder will help encourage health care workers to conserve water.