Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, we've all regularly been told to avoid touching our faces, but it seems that many of us can't resist – particularly while in the car.
New research has revealed that drivers pick, rub and scratch their face 26 times an hour on average.
Worryingly, researchers from the University of Nottingham say that the behaviour could lead to the spread of germs and infections, including Covid-19.
Dr David R Large, co-author of the study, said: 'Face-touching behaviours, present a transmission risk to the driver, particularly if that vehicle is shared or occupied by multiple parties, and where hand hygiene is poor.
'By scratching their nose or rubbing their eye, for example, the driver may inadvertently transfer viruses or another hazardous foreign substance - acquired from a contaminated vehicle control or surface while driving or prior to entering the vehicle - to their face.'
New research has revealed that drivers pick, rub and scratch their faces26 times an hour on average (stock image)
In the study, the team analysed 31 hours of driving footage from 36 drivers, and found that drivers touched their face 26.4 times per hour on average, with each touch lasting nearly four seconds.
The face itself was touched most (79.6 per cent), followed by the hair (10 per cent), neck (8.6 per cent) and shoulders (1.7 per cent).
On the face, 42.5 per cent of touches were to the inner lining of the lips, nostrils and eyes, known as the mucous membranes, with fingertips and thumbs most commonly used.
However, drivers were less likely to touch their faces during episodes of 'high workload' – including when they were preparing to change lane or turn.
'Driving as a task
