Hand Sanitizers: Safe, Beneficial When Used as Directed

• ACI: Despite Isolated Misuse, Let’s Not Lose Focus of Product Benefits• Sanitizers Are Part of Healthy Hand Hygiene Practices

Newswise — WASHINGTON, D.C., April 24, 2012 – With cases of intentional misuse of alcohol-based hand sanitizers being widely reported, the American Cleaning Institute® (ACI, formerly The Soap and Detergent Association) offered reminders that the products provide key benefits when properly used.

“Intentional misuse of hand sanitizers should not discourage the use of a product that contributes daily to public health,” said Nancy Bock, ACI Senior Vice President of Education. “Simply put, hand sanitizers are safe when used as directed.

“One case of product misuse – intentional or otherwise – is always one too many. But let’s not lose sight of the fact that millions of people are not abusing these products and do responsibly use them as needed.”

Bock noted that hand sanitizers are part of regular hand hygiene routines, especially when individuals are not near soap and water.

“These products are used safely and effectively in homes, schools, child care centers, offices, hospitals, and health care facilities – every single day,” she said.

ACI’s website features a summary of research on the health benefits of hand sanitizers: www.cleaninginstitute.org/clean_living/public_health_benefits_of_hand_sanitizers.aspx.

More information on proper hand hygiene can be found at www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleanhands/.

The American Cleaning Institute® (ACI - formerly The Soap and Detergent Association) is the Home of the U.S. Cleaning Products Industry® and represents the $30 billion U.S. cleaning products market. ACI members include the formulators of soaps, detergents, and general cleaning products used in household, commercial, industrial and institutional settings; companies that supply ingredients and finished packaging for these products; and oleochemical producers. ACI (www.cleaninginstitute.org) and its members are dedicated to improving health and the quality of life through sustainable cleaning products and practices.