University Recreation and You: Our Team Approach to Hygiene

University Recreation Patrons,

The recent and increased coverage of the effects and challenges surrounding the “superbug” Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) has generated an increased awareness and concern for proper safety and health precautions among all individuals in public facilities where the potential for infectious transmission is heightened. As with any staph infection, skin contact with the bacteria can result in infection. .

University Recreation will continue to follow certain procedures as prevention safe guards for all using our recreational and fitness facilities. We will:

Provide on-going daily cleaning of equipment with appropriate disinfectant concentrating on benches, body supports, all handgrip areas and mats. Extra attention to equipment that patrons feel needs additional cleaning will be provided by our staff upon request
Provide disinfectant spray bottles and wipes for participants to wipe equipment down after personal use (look for these through the weight and fitness and workout areas)
Remind all patrons of policies for proper clothing for safe workouts (Signage on these and other health-promoting steps will be placed in the work out areas)
Use anti-bacterial rated detergents and appropriate water temperatures for all laundering of towels. All dryer levels will continue to be set to high for towel drying
Use protective gloves when laundering or disinfecting equipment

We ask that you as our valued patrons maintain the following personal steps towards safety:

Use a barrier between your skin and shared equipment such as your own clothing or towel
Wipe surfaces of equipment before and after use
Keep hands clean by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based cleanser
Shower immediately following workout sessions
Thoroughly wash with soap and water and cover any open skin wounds such as abrasions or cuts with a clean dry bandage
Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, soap, combs, razors, weight belts, weightlifting gloves, etc.
Get prompt medical attention for any blister, boil, redness or swelling
Alert University Recreation staff (including Tuscaloosa Therapy athletic trainers in the building) regarding such wounds
Launder all work-out clothing and any personal towels you use regularly in hot water

Together we can reduce the risks of transmission of the MRSA infection. Please assist us in all efforts towards promoting and maintaining good personal hygiene as necessary and important habits that will make our facilities as safe as possible. Thanks to you all for your patronage and support!

George M. Brown, Executive Director
University Recreation
gbrown@sa.ua.edu
348-3994