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Increasing the Post-Use Cleaning of Gym Equipment Using Prompts and Increased Access to Cleaning Materials
Abstract
A multiple treatment reversal design was used to evaluate the effects of three different antecedent-based interventions on the post-use cleaning of gym equipment. Unidentified students, faculty, staff, and community members participated in this study. An announcement, signs, and signs together with increased accessibility to cleaning materials were evaluated. The highest level of post-use cleaning was observed under the signs plus accessibility condition. These results indicate that the use of antecedent-based interventions may be a viable option for increasing cleaning behavior.
... Not only did virus contamination increase after cleaning, but weight equipment had significantly higher levels of viral contamination compared to aerobic equipment. Furthermore, patron cleaning of equipment is relatively low unless there are large amounts of signage and access to cleaning wipes within a gym environment [59]. Goldhammer and colleagues [58] suggested that the difference in bacteria based on equipment type is due to two factors. ...
... The authors also suggest that the material of the equipment played a role in the bacterial density. The smooth, stainless-steel surface of the weight training equipment provide a non-porous environment on which bacteria could thrive, whereas the aerobic exercise equipment was more porous, providing a worse environment for bacteria proliferation [59]. ...
... Studies have shown that it is possible to remove pathogens in gyms and sporting facilities through processes that support cleaner environments (Montgomery et al., 2010;Ryan et al., 2011). Elba and Ivy (2018) found that signage, and easy access to cleaning equipment, led to an increase in post-use cleaning of gym equipment by users, most noticeably near signs prompting this behaviour. This study highlights that the prevention or reduction of contamination and infection risk in the shared 'island' spaces of gyms is possible when the TPB (Ajzen, 1985) is applied. ...
... More than 60% of survey respondents reported use of hand hygiene measures, indicating a baseline of personal awareness. Promotional measures such as posters displayed in gyms, remind users about the need for hygiene practices; these have been shown to translate hand hygiene intention into action in a gym setting (Elba & Ivy, 2018) and may have an important impact on improving communal spread of infection beyond the gym. ...
... Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is based on the principles of respondent and operant conditioning (Skinner, 1953) and refers to the scientific study of socially significant and large-scale behavior change (Baer et al., 1968(Baer et al., , 1987Normand & Kohn, 2013). Hovell et al. (1986) proposed how ABA could improve public health and preventative measures (e.g., obesity, smoking, transmission of infections or viruses, sudden unexpected infant death) 2 using antecedent interventions (e.g., prompts and decreased response effort; Elba & Ivy, 2018), motivation, stimulus control (e.g., Elba & Ivy, 2018), differential reinforcement to increase desirable behaviors (e.g., Bowman et al., 2019;Yokley & Glenwick, 1984), and punishment to reduce or minimize high-risk behaviors that lead to infection, injury, or death. Eckholm (1977) asserted, "It is important to note that the prevention of infectious disease has been accomplished predominantly by environmental interventions, rather than medical treatments" (p. ...
... Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is based on the principles of respondent and operant conditioning (Skinner, 1953) and refers to the scientific study of socially significant and large-scale behavior change (Baer et al., 1968(Baer et al., , 1987Normand & Kohn, 2013). Hovell et al. (1986) proposed how ABA could improve public health and preventative measures (e.g., obesity, smoking, transmission of infections or viruses, sudden unexpected infant death) 2 using antecedent interventions (e.g., prompts and decreased response effort; Elba & Ivy, 2018), motivation, stimulus control (e.g., Elba & Ivy, 2018), differential reinforcement to increase desirable behaviors (e.g., Bowman et al., 2019;Yokley & Glenwick, 1984), and punishment to reduce or minimize high-risk behaviors that lead to infection, injury, or death. Eckholm (1977) asserted, "It is important to note that the prevention of infectious disease has been accomplished predominantly by environmental interventions, rather than medical treatments" (p. ...
The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has had a global impact on lives everywhere and has led to the disruption of, and interference with, virtually every aspect of life. In response, leading experts, political leaders, doctors, and scientists have released guidelines that attempt to prevent and mitigate the exponential rate of infection. The response to these safety recommendations has produced tremendous behavior variability as a society. Although a plethora of factors are likely relevant, a more complete analysis of human behavior during this time might help explain this disparity. The principles of applied behavior analysis allow for a functional analysis of an individual’s use of transmission prevention behaviors (TPBs) during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Thus, the purpose of this discussion is to provide a conceptual analysis for some possible explanations for why individuals might or might not engage in virus TPBs, as well as some recommendations to help combat the current pandemic, as well as those in the future.
... Possible interventions or public health campaigns specific to the concerns raised by this study could include large posters, signage [38], or messaging encouraging exercise/fitness center users to disinfect gym equipment and surfaces, which can be effective [39]. Creating perceptions of social norms, including disinfecting gym equipment, has been demonstrated to increase the desired behavior of users [39]. ...
The spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in community settings, including fitness/exercise centers, remains relevant for public health. MRSA, a cause of severe infections in some, can be transmitted through shared equipment and skin contact. Understanding its prevalence and the frequency of antibiotic resistance in such environments can be useful for informing hygiene and intervention strategies. For investigating, multiple environmental swabs were collected from 14 different sites within a fitness facility, including equipment and locker rooms. Samples were collected for characterizing the prevalence of staphylococci (including MRSA), E. coli, and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE). Isolated colonies were identified biochemically and evaluated for antibiotic resistance. Logistic regression was applied to assess risk across different surfaces. Among 42 samples, the highest prevalence of Staphylococcus spp. was on locker room surfaces. S. aureus was prevalent on locker room floors and benches. Non-S. aureus species, such as S. saprophyticus and S. haemolyticus, were common. Resistance to oxacillin and penicillin was widespread, particularly among non-S. aureus species. E. coli was detected once, and CRE was not detected. Fitness center surfaces can harbor staphylococci, including MRSA. The results obtained corroborate other studies finding notable antibiotic resistance among staphylococci from fitness center surfaces. Hygiene improvements, including personal hygiene actions, are essential for reducing transmission risks.
... According to the results, cleanliness is recognized as a major facility element considered by users in fitness centers, with a particular emphasis on the cleanliness of fitness equipment. If the fitness equipment, which is frequently contacted during workouts, is not clean, it can cause hygiene issues for the users and negatively impact their health [46]. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of maintaining and managing the cleanliness of fitness equipment from a facility management perspective. ...
The purpose of study was to examine the relative importance of servicescape, identify the optimal combination, and predict the market share in fitness centers. We conducted a conjoint analysis on users of fitness centers located in Seoul. As a primary result, it was found that the spatial layout, particularly ‘sufficient exercise space’, was considered most important. Secondly, cleanliness, specifically ‘well-maintained fitness equipment’, was deemed important following spatial layout. Next, users emphasized the importance of ambient conditions, especially ‘well-managed heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning’. However, aesthetics, specifically ‘Attractive interior design’, was not considered as significant compared to other attributes. The optimal combination of servicescape was identified to be ‘sufficient exercise space, well-maintained fitness equipment, and an attractive interior design within a well-managed heating, ventilation, and air conditioning’. Finally, the combination of ‘sufficient exercise space, attractive interior design, well-managed heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, and well-maintained fitness equipment’ was associated with the highest market share. From an academic perspective, this study holds significance in reaffirming the meaning and impact of servicescape on consumers. Additionally, it provides practical implications that assist in determining the direction for sustainable facility improvement and management of the fitness center.
... Possible solutions to these barriers could include procurement of ABHR dispensers that are activated by a sensor making it easier for patients to use. Emphasis on routine IPAC practices during staff orientation to encourage adherence to appropriate hand hygiene and equipment disinfection practices and the availability of disinfectant wipes at convenient locations may also improve compliance 9 . Moving forward, auditing by Hand Hygiene Champions will enable monitoring of compliance and identify the necessary resources needed for improvements, or additional resources such has staffing, supplies of ABHR and disinfectant wipes. ...
Gym Routine Infection Prevention program’s (G.R.I.P.) purpose was to establish a monitoring program for hand hygiene and equipment disinfection in six rehabilitation/ complex continuing care gymnasiums. Our goal was to create a safe environment by preventing acquisition of healthcare associated infections (HAIs) by promotion of infection prevention and control (IPAC) best practices with a focus on hand hygiene compliance and the cleaning and disinfection of shared equipment. A customized tool was created that revealed hand hygiene compliance was 76% before patient contact and 96% after patient contact and cleaning shared equipment before patient use was 79% and after use was 90%
As the world was taken out by surprise with a pandemic virus named “COVID-19”, the closure of gymnasiums specified under the category as “non-essential public places”, is sharing its share of turmoil along with many other. Therefore, the research attempted to identify and analyze the impact of training hours, hygienic standards, mobile payment & brand awareness on ensuring the business continuity of gymnasiums using a mobile application in a post-COVID timeline. The sample population consisted of gymnasium members under the SME (small to medium enterprise) model. The methodology is based on descriptive and correlation under applied research, and the quantitative method has been followed. Further study on the collected data was proceeded by removing identified outliers that can cause a change in the magnitude of regression coefficients. The observed shreds of evidence showed positive relationships of the dependent with the independent variable “Ensuring business continuity by the mobile application” using regression analysis and correlation analysis, even though the correlations' levels were variated.
Translated and published article
A field study was conducted to examine the effect of interventions to increase hand-hygiene behavior of university students. Student patrons of a university cafeteria were observed during lunch. Across several phases, researchers observed and recorded the number of students (a) entering the restroom to wash hands and (b) using a hand-sanitizer gel. Interventions included an informational poster, hand-sanitizer dispenser, and change agent to increase hand-hygiene behavior. Results showed that the presence of a strategically placed hand-sanitizer dispenser was effective in increasing hand-hygiene behavior from 1.52% to over 60% (average n = 208 students per day). Participants were particularly responsive to the hand-sanitizer dispenser when combined with a change agent. Meanwhile, the tested interventions were ineffective in increasing the number of students entering a restroom to hand wash. The results are discussed regarding response cost and socially-mediated consequences of change agents.
ABSTRACT
We argue that the field of behavior analysis would be best served if behavior analysts worked to extend the reach of behavioral services into a more diverse range of settings and with more varied populations, with an emphasis on the establishment of new career opportunities for graduating students. This is not a new proposal, but it is a tall order; it is not difficult to see why many would choose a surer route to gainful employment. Currently, the most fruitful career path for behavior analysts in practice is in the area of autism and developmental disabilities. For the continued growth of the field of behavior analysis, however, it is important to foster new career opportunities for those trained as behavior analysts. Toward this end, we identify several fields that seem well suited to behavior analysts and summarize the training requirements and likely professional outcomes for behavior analysts who pursue education and certification in these fields. These fields require relatively little additional formal training in the hopes of minimizing the response effort necessary for individuals who have already completed a rigorous program of graduate study in behavior analysis.
The proportion of plastic bottles that consumers placed in appropriate recycling receptacles rather than trash bins was examined across 3 buildings on a university campus. We extended previous research on interventions to increase recycling by controlling the number of recycling receptacles across conditions and by examining receptacle location without the use of posted signs. Manipulating the appearance or number of recycling bins in common areas did not increase recycling. Consumers recycled substantially more plastic bottles when the recycling bins were located in classrooms.
To present recommendations for the prevention, education, and management of skin infections in athletes.
Trauma, environmental factors, and infectious agents act together to continually attack the integrity of the skin. Close quarters combined with general poor hygiene practices make athletes particularly vulnerable to contracting skin diseases. An understanding of basic prophylactic measures, clinical features, and swift management of common skin diseases is essential for certified athletic trainers to aid in preventing the spread of infectious agents.
These guidelines are intended to provide relevant information on skin infections and to give specific recommendations for certified athletic trainers and others participating in athletic health care.
Staphylococcus aureus is spread via direct contact with persons and indirect contact via environmental surfaces such as weight benches. Athletes participating in direct-contact sports have an increased risk of acquiring S aureus infections.
To determine (1) potential environmental reservoirs of S aureus in football and wrestling locker rooms and weight rooms, (2) environmental bacterial status after employing more stringent cleaning methods, (3) differences in colonization rates between athletes and nonathletes, (4) exposed body locations where Staphylococcus was recovered more frequently, and (5) personal hygiene practices of athletes and nonathletes.
Cross-sectional study.
Locker room and strengthening and conditioning facilities at a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II university.
Collegiate football players and wrestlers, with nonathlete campus residents serving as the control group.
Infection control methods, education of the custodial staff, and education of the athletes regarding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for infection prevention.
Cultures were taken from the participants' noses, fingertips, knuckles, forearms, and shoes and from the environment.
Before the intervention, from the 108 environmental samples taken from the football locker room and weight room, 26 (24%) contained methicillin-susceptible S aureus (MSSA) and 33 (31%) contained methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA). From the 39 environmental samples taken from the wrestling locker room and pit areas, 1 (3%) contained MSSA and 4 (10%) contained MRSA. The MRSA rates were different between the 2 locations according to a chi(2) test (P = .01). Seven MRSA isolates were recovered from football players and 1 from a wrestler; no MRSA isolates were recovered from the control group. The fingertip location of S aureus recovery from football players was significant when compared with both other locations in football players and fingertips in wrestlers and the control group (P < .05). Football players and wrestlers shared more personal items than the control group (P < .05). After the intervention, the football locker room and weight room samples were negative for S aureus.
Intact strengthening and conditioning equipment, proper hygiene, and proper disinfection methods lowered both environmental and human S aureus recovery at 1 university.
We sought to identify staphylococcal contamination of gymnasium surfaces. Various environmental surfaces were cultured at a university fitness center. Ten out of 99 samples yielded Staphylococcus aureus, all of which were methicillin-susceptible. Gym surfaces may be colonized with staphylococci and could play a role in community transmission of staphylococcal species. Copyright © 2012 by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
We investigated the effects of prompts on the recycling behavior of approximately 217 faculty, staff, and graduate students in two academic departments of a large university. During the intervention, two signs were posted in each department. One sign prompted recycling (posted above the recycling receptacle), and the other sign prompted proper disposal of trash (posted above the trash receptacle). Results of a multiple baseline design across the two departments indicated that the sign prompt increased recycling behavior. Installation of the sign prompts in close proximity to receptacles in Department A resulted in a 54% improvement over baseline. Posting of sign prompts over containers 4 m apart in Department B resulted in a 17% improvement, whereas positioning the signs and receptacles in close proximity resulted in a 29% improvement over baseline.
Physical activity and health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015a). Physical activity
and health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/
basics/pa-health/
General information about MRSA in healthcare settings
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015b). General information about MRSA in healthcare settings. Retrieved from https://
www.cdc.gov/mrsa/healthcare/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Cleaning &
disinfecting athletic facilities for MRSA. Retrieved from https://
www.cdc.gov/mrsa/community/enviroment/athletic-facilities.html