Cold Weather: Hand Wash Units or Hand Sanitizer?
By Karleen Kos, PSAI Executive Director
The PSAI is aware of a few providers that have been called on the carpet about this (usually in Canada or in the US when
a union is involved), but so far we are not aware of any fines or other operating consequences that have been levied.
Apparently, you cannot argue with the practical nature of unfrozen sanitizer versus the alternative in very cold weather.
Until this is all sorted out, operators are advised to know what their local law requires and to be aware of the possible
consequences should they choose to deviate from it whatever the weather. In instances where local law doesn't exist or
apply (e.g., special events in North America) hand sanitizer can be a workable alternative.
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When the law clearly states
that hot and cold running water is necessary on a job site, it is in your best interest to be aware of this and to work with
your customer on an alternative that is satisfactory to everyone. Ideally, this will be something that won't freeze into an
ice block, harm the users with additives, or get your company into hot water — figuratively speaking anyway. -KK
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WEEKLY EDITION NOVEMBER 13, 2019
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Please note that laws for food service workers are often different than those for event attendees. If the sanitation provider will also be
providing facilities for food service workers, it will be important to know those requirements as well and to bid the job with whatever
additional equipment may be required to meet their needs. Heaters, heated tents, and other equipment may be necessary if you are to
provide hot and cold running water when it is already extremely cold outside.
