What are the fire risks of alcohol handrub?
A. The risk of fire with alcohol handrub is low but, due to the flammability of alcohol, fire is recognised as the main hazard. Everything possible therefore should be done to minimise risk. A thorough local risk assessment should be undertaken when deciding on the placement of the alcohol handrub dispensers. This may mean that in some clinical areas (for example when caring for children or confused patients) staff will need to be issued with personal dispensers of alcohol handrub. This adheres to the principle of point of care availability whilst at the same time minimising any risk to patients.
