Hygienic handwashing makes science news headlines

The latest science news from the University of Bradford could be of particular interest to researchers working in environments where hygiene is a major concern.

A team at the academic institution looked into the most effective means of drying hands after washing them.

Dr Anna Snelling led the research and says: "Good hand hygiene should include drying hands thoroughly - and not just washing."

Hot air hand dryers are one way of ensuring that the last remnants of moisture are stripped away, with instructions printed on the front often advising users to rub their hands together.

But the science news from the University of Bradford reveals that contact between the hands can bring bacteria to the surface, making this less hygienic than a non-contact approach.

In fact, paper towels leave fewer bacteria on the surface of the skin than if the hands are rubbed together during drying.

Dr Snelling was part of the team that worked with Dyson on the creation of its iconic hand dryer, the Dyson Airblade.