Safe Practices for the Use of Alcohol-Based Hand
Rub in Care and Treatment
Occupancies
This document provides information to address potential fire safety hazards
related to the installation and use of alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) in 'care
and treatment' occupancies (e.g. hospitals, nursing homes and long term care
homes).
Containers of hand rub are typically located on wall-mounted holders from
which a small amount can be dispensed to sanitize hands. Two types of hand rub
that have been identified are the gel/liquid type and the foam type (pressurised
and non-pressurised). The gel/liquid and non-pressurised foam products are
typically classified as a Class IB flammable liquid under Division B, Sentence
4.1.2.1.(2) of the Fire Code. The pressurised foam type product is typically
classified as a Level 1 aerosol by the National Fire Protection Association (see
NFPA-30B). While ABHR products are subject to the general provisions in Division
B, Section 4.1 of the Fire Code, they are exempt from Division B, Section 4.2 of
the Fire Code as a pharmaceutical product in closed containers [see Clause
4.2.1.1.(2)(d)]. Consequently, the installation and use of ABHR should be guided
by Division B, Section 4.1 of the Fire Code and this document.
ABHR products are dispensed in small quantities thus the fire hazards they
present are minimal. However, the following precautions are recommended to
achieve an acceptable level of fire safety.
- Avoid exposure to open flames (e.g. smoker's materials) during and
immediately after application. In oxygen-enriched environments, ensure hands
are completely dry before touching equipment, devices, bedding or
patients/residents. A warning should be provided to potential users of the
product e.g. signage or instruction to staff.
- Locate dispensers away from potential sources of ignition such as radiant
heaters that could raise the container temperatures to above 49 0 C (120 0
F) and at least 1 m (3 feet) from any open flame. Do not install dispensers
above or closer than 150 mm (6 inches) to electrical switches and outlets.
- Where dispensers are installed in corridors, not more than one dispenser
of maximum 1.2 L (gel/liquid) capacity shall be located at each entry into a
room.
Note: Level 1, 2 and 3 classified aerosols
shall not be installed in corridors.
- Where dispensers are installed in sleeping rooms, treatment rooms and in
other rooms or suites, not more than one dispenser of maximum 1.2 L
(gel/liquid) and 0.51 Kg. (aerosol) capacity shall be installed at each
point of care (i.e. at each bed or treatment station).
- Particular care should be taken to use secure dispensers (e.g. lockable
units) in unsupervised areas and in areas where there is a risk of misuse.
- Dispensers shall not be installed directly over carpeted surfaces except
if the floor area is sprinklered or other measures are taken to control
excess accumulation of product in the carpet.
- Stock of hand rub product not for immediate use shall be located in a
storage room protected with a 1-hour fire separation. Alternatively, excess
stock may be stored in a cabinet conforming to Division B, Subsection
4.2.10. of the Fire Code. Bulk dispensing of hand rub product shall only be
undertaken in rooms conforming to Division B, Part 4 of the Fire Code.
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