Strategies for Low-Resource Settings

In low-resource settings, an inadequate supply of water, soap, or antiseptics can play a major role in poor handwashing behavior.

Dealing with Water Shortages

• Using an alcohol handrub solution whenever possible can help conserve water in areas where shortages are common.
  
  
• You can perform handwashing correctly even without running water by using a bucket with a tap or having one person pour clean water from a basin while another washes.
  
  
• If water shortages are common, plan ahead by collecting and storing a clean supply of water.

Addressing Supply Problems

Every facility faces slightly different problems. Whenever possible, try to find the simplest, most low-tech solution. Assemble a team of administrators and staff to work on strategies that will ensure adequate supplies for handwashing during service hours. Have them ask:

• What is the real source of the problem? Can you budget enough money to order adequate supplies?  Are new supplies being ordered before existing stocks run out? Why is running water unavailable--droughts or bad pipes? Does your antiseptic supply run out because staff are using antiseptics at times when they could be using plain soap?
  
  
• Is there a simple, low-tech solution? Is a less expensive soap or antiseptic available? Can you ensure a budget for soap and antiseptics? How can you modify current ordering procedures to ensure a steady flow of supplies? Can staff members bring personal towels to save on laundry expenses and make sure all staff are using clean towels? Are there times when staff can use alcohol handrub solution to help conserve water?

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