Hand Sanitizers in the School Setting
Handwashing Recommendations and Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer (ABHS) Use In Schools (NYSED 3/20)
This memo updates the 2009 NYSED Guidance on the use of ABHS in the school setting. School Medical Directors may approve and permit the use of ABHS for use in their facilities without the need for individual orders from a student's private health care providers. This guidance is based on best practice in infection control and recommendations from the CDC.
Sample Protocol for the Use of Hand Sanitizer in the School Setting (NYSCSH 3/20)
Sample school protocol including product selection, handling, storage, procedures for use, parent, student, and staff education, and sample notification form. This resource is also available to medical directors on the Medical Director sub-page.
CDC ABHS & Hand Washing Resources
Fire Safety and Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer (ABHS)
ABHS contains ethyl alcohol, which readily evaporates at room temperature into an ignitable vapor, and is considered a flammable liquid. Although the incidence of fires related to ABHS is very low, it is vital that ABHS is stored safely and that bulk dispensers are installed and maintained correctly. This webpage provides the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101 was adopted by CMS as a minimum fire safety requirement for facilities that receive Medicaid or Medicare reimbursement. The Life Safety Code contains national standards for the storage of ABHS, as well as the placement and function of dispensers.
Show Me the Science - When to Use Hand Sanitizer
CDC Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of microbes on them in most situations. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Handwashing Clean Hands Save Lives
Provides resources for students, families, and staff with 5 simple steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness.
Hand Washing
Henry the Hand
Handwashing Resources for Educating Students
Why Do I Need to Wash My Hands?
KidsHealth Resource
See Also:
Page Updated 5/16/23
