THE speed at which water flows from a tap can significantly impact the possible risk of infections spreading in hospital and aged-care settings, according to a new study led by FlindersUniversity.
Production of bioaerosols - airborne water particles that may contain bacteria or viruses - pose a significant public health concern.
Researchers looked at three different flow restrictors used in hospital sinks and found that lower flow rates, while saving water, led to an increased generation of aerosols from the drain and greater retrograde contamination from the drain to the faucet.
The team said it highlights the importance of collaboration between product designers, engineers and microbiologists to develop hand basin designs.
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