This is especially true in healthcare facilities, where harmful viruses, bacteria, and fungi colonize and persist on doorknobs, push plates, handrails, tray tables, tap (faucet) handles, IV poles, HVAC systems, and other equipment.
They have an inherent ability to kill a wide range of harmful microbes relatively rapidly – often within two hours or less – and with a high degree of efficiency.
[7] On February 29, 2008, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved the registrations of five different groups of copper alloys as "antimicrobial materials" with public health benefits.
The Copper Alloy surface material has been shown to reduce microbial contamination, but it does not necessarily prevent cross-contamination.Antimicrobial copper alloys are intended to provide supplemental antimicrobial action in between routine cleaning of environmental or touch surfaces in healthcare settings, as well as in public buildings and the home.
CDA is currently implementing an outreach program through written communications, a product stewardship website,[14] and through a Working Group which meets periodically to expand educational efforts.
The EPA warranty statement is worded as follows: If used as intended, ANTIMICROBIAL COPPER ALLOYS are wear-resistant and the durable antibacterial properties will remain effective for as long as the product remains in place and is used as directed.Note: With the exception of the product name and the percentage of active ingredient, the EPA-approved Master Labels for the six groups of registered alloys are identical.