Pitt offers more sanitization options to slow spread of H1N1

Pitt implemented an initiative to squelch the spread of the H1N1 virus by sanitizing elevator… Pitt implemented an initiative to squelch the spread of the H1N1 virus by sanitizing elevator buttons, computer lab keyboards and other commonly touched surfaces.

The program placed automatic hand sanitizer stations in high-traffic areas of the University, such as residence halls and University-owned residences, as well as in computing and dining facilities, in an effort to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus. Motion sensors detect hands under the dispenser, relieving the threat of contaminated handles or pumps at these stations.

The placement of the stations comes after Pitt released a comprehensive plan for dealing with H1N1 virus this fall. The plan advised that sanitizer be used “as often as possible before and after touching the face or common surfaces, such as elevator buttons, cafeteria trays or computer lab keyboards.”

The plan further urged students to carry pocket-sized, alcohol-based hand sanitizer for when the stations are unavailable.

Jay Frerotte, Pitt’s director of environmental health and safety, noted that in addition to the hand sanitizer locations placed throughout the campus, computer lab attendents were instructed to regularly wipe down computer keyboards and mice.

“CSSD [Computer Services and Systems Development] placed the sanitizer stations in the computing centers and fortified the keyboard sanitizing frequency,” Frerotte said in an e-mail. “This move is endorsed by the flu task force.”

Frerotte said that all CSSD-operated computer labs , including those in the Hillman Library, David Lawrence Hall, Posvar Hall and the Cathedral of Learning, as well as several run by specific departments, were equipped with hand sanitation centers.

Despite hand sanitizer’s reputation as an anti-bacterial measure, Frerotte said that it will still be effective in preventing the spread of H1N1.

“Most surface disinfectants are effective against a broad range of germs,” Frerotte said.

Hand sanitizer stations were added in August and September. No additional staff was needed to install the stations or to maintain the computer sanitation program.

Frerotte is not sure when and if the stations will be removed after the cessation of the H1N1 virus.

“There is not a definitive trigger for removal of a sanitizer station. The stations may remain, or they may be removed after the pandemic wanes,” he said.