Expert: Walter Hintz - 3/25/2008

Question
I work in a busy office where there is a large tendency of employees leaving dirty dishes in the sink either completely unwashed or left sitting in cold semi-soapy water. I know it is unsightly, but is it also a health risk?

Answer
Unwashed dishes with food left on them certainly could be a health risk especially if things like salad dressings are on them.  Those in the soapy water are probably no problem but as you say they are unsightly.  I think a sign should be put up over the sink for people to clean up their own mess.