Photo Credit: Courtesy of KAIVAC, INC
Many managers, as well as park and recreation users, believe that germs, bacteria and viruses are lurking just about everywhere in public restrooms--including toilets, doors, faucets and urinal handles. Some have even gone as far as placing placards in restrooms, encouraging users to “use a paper towel when opening and closing doors,” all in the interest of protecting public health.
While it is true that a wide variety of germs and bacteria--including staphylococcus, E. coli, hepatitis A and the many viruses that cause the common cold--can be found in park restrooms, it is a myth that they are everywhere, just waiting to attack us. And it should not be forgotten that if park users are healthy and have strong immune systems, they are relatively safe as long as they remember to wash their hands.
However, to dispel our own fears as well as those of park users, it is worthwhile to understand which areas of park restrooms are most likely to house potentially harmful germs and bacteria. Hopefully, not only will this allay some fears, but it will also allow managers and cleaning professionals to concentrate on those areas of the restroom that need the greatest attention.