Concerns About Alcohol Disinfection in Shared Water Dispensers

Q: Concerns About Alcohol Disinfection in Shared Water Dispensers

Hello： If 75% alcohol is accidentally ingested, the primary concern is alcohol poisoning, especially in children. <br>The general recommendation is to drink a large amount of water. <br>However, unless a significant amount was sprayed during disinfection, ingesting a small amount

Questions related to disinfectant alcohol?

Hello, Doctor: I currently share a water dispenser with other residents on the same floor.
I used 75% alcohol, classified as a type B disinfectant, to spray for disinfection.
However, I later realized that my alcohol spray nozzle produced a heavier mist, and I may have used too much, preventing it from evaporating naturally.
I only wiped it down afterward, but I'm unsure if anyone filled their water during that time.
I'm very concerned about whether any residual alcohol at the water outlet could affect the health of other residents who drink the water.
I would appreciate your response.
Wishing you all the best! :)

Yanggan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/12

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: If 75% alcohol is accidentally ingested, the primary concern is alcohol poisoning, especially in children.
The general recommendation is to drink a large amount of water.
However, unless a significant amount was sprayed during disinfection, ingesting a small amount should not have a major impact on the body.
Please be more cautious in the future when using it.

Reply Date: 2023/02/12

More Info

When it comes to the use of alcohol for disinfecting shared water dispensers, there are several important considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding the potential risks associated with residual alcohol in the water supply.

First and foremost, using 75% alcohol for disinfection is generally effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. However, the concern arises when the alcohol is not allowed to evaporate completely before the water is dispensed. If excessive alcohol is sprayed and not wiped off, there is a possibility that some of it could remain at the dispensing nozzle. If someone were to fill their cup with water shortly after the disinfection process, they might inadvertently ingest a small amount of alcohol.

The primary health risk associated with consuming alcohol is alcohol poisoning, which can occur if a significant amount is ingested. However, the amount of alcohol that could potentially remain in the water from a typical disinfection process is likely to be minimal, especially if the alcohol was sprayed and not poured directly into the water. The human body can tolerate small amounts of alcohol, and unless someone were to consume a large quantity of contaminated water, the risk of alcohol poisoning is low. For adults, even a small amount of residual alcohol in the water is unlikely to cause any significant health issues. However, it is important to note that children are more susceptible to the effects of alcohol, and even small amounts can be harmful to them.

In your case, since you were concerned about the possibility of others drinking water that may have been contaminated with residual alcohol, it would be wise to take precautions in the future. Here are some recommendations:
1. Allow for Proper Evaporation: After disinfecting with alcohol, allow sufficient time for the alcohol to evaporate before anyone uses the water dispenser. This can help minimize the risk of residual alcohol being present.

2. Wipe Down Surfaces: If you use alcohol for disinfection, make sure to wipe down the surfaces thoroughly after spraying. This will help remove any excess alcohol that may not evaporate.

3. Communicate with Others: If you live in a shared space, it might be beneficial to communicate with your housemates about the disinfection process. This way, everyone can be aware of when the dispenser has been cleaned and when it is safe to use.

4. Consider Alternative Disinfectants: If you are concerned about the use of alcohol, consider using other disinfectants that do not leave harmful residues. For example, solutions based on hydrogen peroxide or vinegar can be effective and may pose less risk if ingested in small amounts.

5. Monitor for Symptoms: If anyone experiences unusual symptoms after drinking from the dispenser, such as nausea, vomiting, or dizziness, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

In summary, while the use of 75% alcohol for disinfecting shared water dispensers is effective, it is crucial to ensure that any residual alcohol is minimized before the water is consumed. The risk of health issues from small amounts of alcohol in water is generally low, but taking precautions can help alleviate concerns and ensure the safety of all users. Always prioritize communication and hygiene practices in shared living situations to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

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