February 28, 2008 -- Designed for use on any high-contact door where the risk of cross contamination is high (e.g. washrooms, medical facilities, care homes, restaurants, educational establishments etc.), the HYSO system comprises an automatic, battery-operated dispenser containing a canister of EU-approved, quat-based aerosol surface disinfectant which, according to the company, kills 99.9 per cent of a range of bacteria including E.Coli and MRSA. At pre-set intervals the system delivers a burst of quick-drying formula that continues to work even between sprayings.

Chris Frith, general services manager at Portsmouth Grammar School, saw the article and ordered some units for the catering staff toilets and a parent and pupil toilet.

“Our school prides itself on its high standards throughout the school and I’m always looking for ways to improve the health and safety of our students, staff and parents,” says Frith. “When I saw the article I thought that this product could provide an extra level of protection for everyone. Then there was the fatal MRSA outbreak in some schools in America: I felt that anything we could do at PGS to reduce this risk, however small, would be a positive thing.”

How did people react to seeing these units up in the school? “Feedback was very positive,” says Frith, “especially from the staff.” As a result, he ordered more. “Apart from just installing the units, I think we can use them as a teaching opportunity – to remind people how important good hand hygiene really is. I am also thinking about putting signs up to explain what the units do.”