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Bengaluru, August 19, 2024 – Experts have raised alarms over the potential health risks associated with using the same trays for both shoes and personal belongings at airport security check-ins, cautioning that this practice could lead to cross-contamination. The warning comes in response to concerns expressed by a senior executive about the unsanitary conditions at Bengaluru International Airport.
Anand Nichani, Managing Director of Magniflex India, recently took to social media platform X.com to criticize the practice of placing personal items such as phones and laptops in the same trays used for shoes. Nichani, who was traveling from Bengaluru to Delhi, called for mandatory dedicated trays for shoes to prevent contamination. “The same trays that carry our muddy shoes are used for our personal items at airport security! This is NOT okay! Bengaluru airport, it’s time to make dedicated trays for shoes MANDATORY for a cleaner and more pleasant experience for everyone!” Nichani posted.
In response, Bengaluru International Airport stated, “We’ve positioned dedicated shoe trays adjacent to all of the X-rays for ease,” but Nichani insisted that such trays should be made mandatory to ensure hygiene.
Medical experts have echoed Nichani’s concerns, emphasizing the risk of transferring harmful microorganisms from shoes to personal items. Dr. Aravinda S N, Lead Consultant in Internal Medicine at Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru, warned that using the same trays for shoes and personal belongings could lead to the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. “This can result in the spread of illnesses, including influenza, norovirus, and MRSA,” Dr. Aravinda stated.
Dr. Neha Mishra, Consultant in Infectious Diseases at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, further highlighted that footwear, especially shoes, can transmit infections by contaminating surfaces where they are placed, thereby increasing cross-contamination risks in public spaces.
The experts stressed that certain groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly vulnerable to infections due to weaker immune systems. Exposure to contaminated surfaces at airports could lead to severe health issues, including respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, and even life-threatening conditions like sepsis.
Poor sanitation practices in public spaces, such as airports, can contribute to the spread of various infections, potentially leading to widespread health crises. “Separate shoe containers can carry a lesser risk of transmission of infections without contaminating other goods that are being screened at the airport,” Dr. Mishra suggested.
To minimize the risk of infection, Dr. Aravinda recommended basic preventive measures for travelers, such as using hand sanitizer frequently, avoiding touching one’s face or mouth during security checks, and washing hands thoroughly after passing through security.
As the debate over hygiene practices at airports continues, the call for dedicated shoe trays is gaining attention, with experts advocating for stricter measures to protect public health in busy transit hubs.
