<Tr> <Th_colspan="2"> Clinical data </Th> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> Synonyms </Th> <Td> Hand sanitiser, hand antiseptic, hand disinfectant </Td> </Tr> <P> Hand sanitizer is a liquid generally used to decrease infectious agents on the hands . Formulations of the alcohol - based type are preferable to hand washing with soap and water in most situations in the healthcare setting . It is generally more effective at killing microorganisms and better tolerated than soap and water . Hand washing should still be carried out if contamination can be seen or following the use of the toilet . The general use of non-alcohol based versions has no recommendations . Outside the health care setting evidence to support the use of hand sanitizer over hand washing is poor . They are available as liquids, gels, and foams . </P> <P> Alcohol - based versions typically contain some combination of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), or n - propanol . Versions that contain 60 to 95% alcohol are most effective . Care should be taken as they are flammable . Alcohol - based hand sanitizer works against a variety of microorganisms but not spores . Some versions contain compounds such as glycerol to prevent drying of the skin . Non-alcohol based versions may contain benzalkonium chloride or triclosan . </P>

When may an alcohol-based hand rub be used for hand sanitization