Researchers find that flushing the toilet without a lid could make you sick
In a new experiment, scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder were able to visualize airborne particles, invisible to the naked eye, that are shot into the air when a toilet is flushed without a lid. (University of Colorado Boulder, YouTube)
Estimated reading time: 2-3 minutes
TORONTO – If you thought flushing the toilet couldn’t get any dirtier, think again.
In a new experiment with bright green lasers and camera equipment, scientists from the University of Colorado Boulder they were able to visualize particles in the air, invisible to the naked eye, that are shot into the air when a toilet is flushed without a lid.
Although researchers have known for more than 60 years that these tiny particles are released into the air after washing, this study, published in Scientific Reports, is the first to visualize this directly by being able to measure the speed and the distance with which the particles propagate.
Here’s the kicker: These particles can carry disease-causing pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms, which can pose a risk of exposure in public restrooms.
These tiny droplets of water can carry pathogens like E. coli, C. difficile, norovirus and adenovirus, and while many previous studies have shown that these pathogens can live in the toilet bowl for dozens of flushes, the increased risk potential exposure may be cause for concern.
Scientists reported that in just eight seconds the particles shot out at rocket speeds of 6.6 feet per second, reaching 4.9 feet above the toilet, the largest droplets appearing to land on surfaces within seconds, while smaller ones seemed to stay in the air for minutes or even longer, the study found.
The researchers note the importance of understanding the effects of these particles in order to mitigate exposure. “If it’s something you can’t see, it’s easy to pretend it doesn’t exist. But once you see these videos, you’ll never think of a toilet flush the same way again,” said lead author John Crimaldi. of the studio and professor of civil, environmental and architectural engineering, in the studio’s press release. “By making dramatic visual images of this process, our study can play an important role in public health messaging.”
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