ARE YOU AT RISK WITH AN OPEN TOILET LID?

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​Flushing a toilet at home generates an energetic, turbulent flow that releases droplets and aerosols into the air.  These droplets and aerosols will contaminate your bathroom with E. coli, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, norovirus, and more. 

ARE YOU AT RISK WITH AN OPEN TOILET LID?
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

​Technological advancement allows us to see what is invisible to the naked eye.  In a recent study, laser technology was used to illuminate particles in the air when a toilet is flushed.  Here, camera and laser experts worked together to identify with new technology how a laser can illuminate particles in the air that originated in the toilets. 
 
According to a study conducted by Colorado-based scientists, toilet particles have a substantial range of motion following a flush.  The test area incorporated an open bowl similar to those found in a public restroom.  Upon experimentation, the laser showed particles shooting up well over six feet in seconds into the air.  However, the experiment lacked some crucial key elements, which the study identified as likely to change some factors (i.e., no stalls or people moving around).  The scientists declared that these real-life variables could intensify the problem.
 
Conclusion
If you have ever wondered why keeping a toilet seat down at home is a big deal, it is because particles, often feces-based, can reach 5 feet or more in height when a toilet is flushed.  Why?  Flushing a home toilet generates an energetic, turbulent flow that releases droplets and aerosols into the air.  These droplets and aerosols will contaminate your bathroom! 
FYI:  The particles in the toilet are not limited to E.coli, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and norovirus.