Door fittings made of CU+ will limit the spread of bacteria in public spaces

The critical situation with the coronavirus pandemic has also drawn attention to a long-term problem of public buildings – the low ability to limit the spread of infections. An unexpected solution is offered by antibacterial door handles and grips from the Cobra CU+ collection.

Hospitals, schools, offices, and residential buildings represent a risky environment in terms of the transmission of viral and bacterial infections. While construction or building elements certainly won’t solve flu epidemics, well-designed air circulation, quality air conditioning, and subsequent monitoring of indoor air quality can significantly improve the hygiene standards of the building. But is that all we can do from the perspective of a builder or an architect?

DOOR HARDWARE AFFECTS EVERYONE

"One of the risky elements of bacteria transmission is door hardware. Thousands of people touch them, and not only dirt clings to them, but also a significant amount of bacteria," states Kristina Boda, director of Cobra, the largest Czech supplier of door hardware. "By the way – according to statistics (Unilever, WC Glorix Research), only 40% of people wash their hands after using the restroom, which is already a sufficient reason to pay more attention to the quality of door hardware in public spaces."

If it is not possible to use sliding touchless doors, using door hardware made from antibacterial materials seems optimal. Antibacterial door hardware made from CU+ (antimicrobial copper) offers an accessible and effective way to kill bacteria directly on the handle itself. The material used has been proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria and thus prevents their further spread.

"The understandable interest is particularly visible from the healthcare sector; surprisingly, we provide very few antibacterial handles to restaurants, hotels, and schools, where the risk of spreading bacteria is enormous." says Kristina Boda. "Antibacterial handles will increase hygiene levels without significant upfront costs and will last throughout the entire lifespan of the door hardware; however, it is important that architects or investors themselves are interested in bringing their buildings to a higher standard of quality."

WHAT ARE THE MAIN ADVANTAGES OF COBRA CU+ HARDWARE?

• Scientifically proven effectiveness of CU+. The material used is even significantly more effective than silver.
• The effect is continuous, independent of the external environment (humidity, light, etc.)
• The handle remains effective even after repeated wet and dry abrasion and repeated contamination
• Natural oxidation of the handle does not reduce antibacterial effectiveness
• CU+ is fully recyclable
• The only solid metal surface approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ARE ANTIBACTERIAL HANDLES SUITABLE FOR HOMES TOO?

Cobra CU+ handles are primarily recommended for public spaces with high traffic. However, their design and utility properties predispose them for widespread use in the private sector – in homes or smaller offices.

According to specialist Jan Nečas, parents of frequently ill children who are prone to further illnesses will appreciate the antibacterial properties of CU+. The handles, of course, won’t help against allergies, but the antibacterial effect of CU+ when used in home bathrooms, toilets, or children's rooms represents a clear added value.


For more information on the offer of antibacterial handles and door hardware from COBRA, visit www.matekliku.cz.
For more information on antimicrobial copper and its properties, you can find it HERE