Sanitation

Sanitation is the practice of keeping places clean, hygienic, and free of disease-causing contaminants, such as germs, dirt, and toxic substances. Sanitation can be achieved through proper waste management, water and air pollution control, and food safety protocols.

Where who and what uses Sanitation protocols and practices

Sanitation protocols and practices are used by many different industries and organizations, including the food service industry, health care facilities, and schools. Additionally, governments often have sanitation protocols and practices in place to ensure public health and safety.

The importance of Sanitation

Sanitation is an important part of life that has a significant impact on public health, the environment, and economic productivity. Poor sanitation can lead to the spread of disease, water contamination, and the degradation of the environment. Good sanitation is essential for preventing disease and improving public health by providing clean water, hygienic conditions, and proper waste disposal. It also affects the economic productivity of individuals, communities, and countries. Good sanitation provides a safe and healthy environment that is conducive to economic growth.

Sanitation and the environment are closely connected. Poor sanitation can lead to environmental damage such as water pollution, air pollution, and soil contamination. Poorly treated or untreated wastewater can contain pollutants such as human waste, chemical or industrial waste, and agricultural runoff. These pollutants can contaminate water sources and lead to waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. Poor sanitation can also lead to air pollution in the form of methane gas from septic tanks and landfills, which is a major contributor to global warming. Soil contamination can occur when waste is improperly disposed of or when untreated wastewater is used for irrigation. This can lead to the contamination of crops, which can be harmful to human health. Improving sanitation is essential for protecting the environment and preserving human health. Implementing better wastewater treatment and waste management systems, promoting public hygiene, and providing improved access to safe drinking water can all help to reduce the environmental impacts of poor sanitation.

How Sanitation impacts economic productivity. Sanitation has a significant impact on economic productivity because it is necessary to maintain public health. Poor sanitation can lead to water-borne diseases and other health problems that can lead to missed work days, lowered productivity and increased health care costs. Additionally, inadequate sanitation can lead to negative economic consequences such as reduced tourism and agricultural production. Therefore, improving sanitation can lead to improved economic productivity by reducing these economic losses.

Daily life of sanitation

The daily life of a normal person living with good sanitation practices typically involves:

1. Washing hands regularly with soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Keeping kitchen and bathroom areas clean and free from dirt and grime.
3. Taking regular baths or showers, using a clean towel and fresh, clean clothes every day.
4. Disposing of garbage properly, either by using a trash can or bagging up trash and taking it to a designated area.
5. Disinfecting surfaces and objects regularly, such as countertops and door handles.
6. Practicing good hygiene while preparing and eating food, such as washing fruits and vegetables, cooking food thoroughly and storing food safely.
7. Drinking clean, safe water, either from a tap or other reliable sources.
8. Using the toilet and toilet paper properly, and always flushing after use.
9. Keeping the living environment free from pests and vermin.
10. Maintaining proper ventilation and air quality in the home.

Sanitation in gyms

Sanitation in Australia gyms is regulated by the Australian Health Department. Gyms are required to adhere to the National Health and Safety Framework and the relevant state and territory regulations. Gyms must maintain a clean and hygienic environment, provide adequate ventilation and lighting, maintain equipment in good working order and provide appropriate hygiene products for members.

Gyms must provide hand sanitiser, disinfecting wipes and/or sprays, and hand washing facilities for members. All equipment must be wiped down with a disinfectant after each use, and gym staff must ensure that surfaces and equipment are regularly cleaned and disinfected.

In addition, gyms must ensure that all staff are trained in appropriate sanitation practices and are aware of the relevant health and safety guidelines. Staff must also be trained in how to respond to any potential health issues that may arise.

What resources use Sanitation

1. Water: access to clean, safe water is essential for good sanitation. This includes both drinking water and water for washing and sanitation activities.
2. Sewerage systems: these systems transport wastewater away from homes and businesses to a treatment plant, where it is treated and safely discharged.
3. Septic tanks: these are underground tanks which collect and store wastewater and solids. They must be regularly emptied and cleaned to prevent contamination of the local environment.
4. Toilets: toilets are essential for good sanitation, as they separate human waste from other sources of contamination.
5. Waste disposal: safe and effective disposal of waste, such as medical waste, is essential for good sanitation.
6. Hygiene: good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing with soap and water can help to reduce the spread of disease and improve sanitation.

Water and Sanitation

1. Boil the water: Boiling is an effective way to kill disease-causing microorganisms and make your water safe to drink. Boiling water for at least one minute is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Use water filters: Water filters can be used to remove dirt, debris, and other particles from water. Water filters can also help remove bacteria and other microorganisms from water.
3. Use ultraviolet light: Ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in water. UV light is available in both portable and larger systems.

List of Personal items and places to sanitise in the home, car and work

Home:

1. Door handles
2. Light switches
3. Kitchen countertops
4. Refrigerator/freezer handles
5. Faucet handles
6. Kitchen sink
7. Bathroom sink
8. Toilet handles
9. Bathtub and shower handles
10. Computer keyboards
11. Remote controls
12. Cell phones
13. TV remotes
14. Appliance handles
15. Toys
16. Pet supplies
17. Fabric furniture
18. Hard surfaces like tables and chairs
19. Carpets and rugs
20. Stair railings

Car:

1. Steering wheel
2. Door handles
3. Seatbelt buckles
4. Gear shift
5. Key Fob/Keyless Entry
6. Touchscreen/infotainment systems
7. Window and door control switches
8. Cup holders
9. Headrests
10. Air vents
11. Seatbelts
12. Floor mats
13. Side mirrors

Work:

1. Desks
2. Chairs
3. Computer keyboards
4. Mouse
5. Door handles
6. Light switches
7. Elevator buttons

Best way to sanitise all of the above

The best way to sanitise all of the above in Australia is to use a disinfectant approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Examples of approved disinfectants include ethanol-based products, hydrogen peroxide-based products, quaternary ammonium compounds, and chlorine-based products. All of these should be used in accordance with the instructions on the label. For example, some products may require the surface to remain wet for a certain period of time in order to be effective. It is also important to ensure that the product is used in a well-ventilated area.

List of the best sanitisers to use for hands at home

1. Dettol Antibacterial
2. Palmolive Naturals
3. Pine O Cleen
4. NIVEA Creme
5. Dove Sensitive Skin
6. The Australian Natural Soap Company
7. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid
8. Lifebuoy
9. Sukin Organics

Hospital grate

1. Dettol
2. Cetaphil
3. Johnson & Johnson
4. DermaVeen
5. Medline
6. Aqium
7. Betadine