Spec Finish

Technical 18 www.thefis.org I n a few short months, our entire world has changed dramatically, and we are all aware of the huge impact that COVID-19 has had on our lives, both professionally and personally. As we emerge from lockdown into a different normality, questions will be asked of us, as specifiers of ironmongery, regarding what the most suitable products will be that we can use in these times. Specifiers will need to carefully consider what items they use when they are asked to create schedules that limit the amount of direct contact with ironmongery and doors or provide some form of anti-bacterial solution. Anti-bacterial and anti-microbial door furniture. There are strong indications that bacteria found on frequently-touched environmental surfaces such as door handles can play a role in infection transmission. A variety of anti-microbial and anti-bacterial coatings and materials have been developed over a number of years to help combat the rise of healthcare-acquired infections (HCAIs). The following is an overview of some of the types which are available on the market: • Copper – Copper is a solid material (not a coating) and its antimicrobial properties last the lifetime of the product. Copper and alloys with a high concentration of copper kill pathogen microbes and break down their genetic material. Copper can be found in high concentration in alloys such as bronze and copper-nickel. • Silver – Silver surfaces contain silver ions which destroy the cell membrane of the germ and stops further cell division. It can also suppress the growth of pathogens on the surface of the product. Various manufacturers can supply hardware product with silver coating. • Built in protection – Door furniture is available with antimicrobial technology which is built in to solid products such as nylon during manufacture. Since the protection is built into the product, it cannot be washed or wiped off. • Applied finishes – Applied finishes create a chemical reaction on the surface of the handle. One example is Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) where UV light strikes the particles in the coating and emits electrons. This can break down bacteria and viruses in to water and carbon dioxide. GAI strongly advises that anyone considering specification of anti-microbial and anti-bacterial products should: 1. Thoroughly research the differing options available. 2. Discuss your chosen product thoroughly with the manufacturer and seek out as much background information and test evidence as you can. 3. Check out any existing independent laboratory tests. 4. Review case studies on existing projects the product has already been supplied on. 5. Be very careful what claims you make when promoting anti-microbial and anti-bacterial furniture in respect of COVID-19 unless you have solid evidence of the products efficacy against it. AN IRONCLAD STRATEGY Joe Cilia liaised with the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) to provide some specification advice for a COVID-19 world. There are strong indications that bacteria found on frequently-touched environmental surfaces such as door handles can play a role in infection transmission.