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Anti-Microbial Health Claims for Copper Alloys Approved
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved the registration of antimicrobial copper, brass and bronze with public health claims that they are capable of killing harmful, potentially deadly bacteria.
Copper is the first solid surface material to receive this type of EPA registration, which is supported by extensive testing, the Copper Development Association (CDA) said last month.
Independent tests found that copper and copper alloys have the ability to kill specific disease-causing bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, which is one of the most virulent strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and a common cause of hospital- and community-acquired infections.
One study showed that on copper alloy surfaces, more than 99.9% of these bacterial “superbugs” were killed within two hours at room temperature.
The EPA registration points out that the use of a copper alloy surface is not a substitute for standard infection control practices, including those related to cleaning and disinfecting environmental surfaces. “The copper alloy surface material has been shown to reduce microbial contamination, but it does not necessarily prevent cross contamination,” the registration says.
“The use of copper alloys for frequently touched surfaces, as a supplement to existing CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)-prescribed hand-washing and disinfection regiments, has far-reaching implications,” CDA said.
“Potential uses — that include door and furniture hardware, bed rails, intravenous (IV) stands, dispensers, faucets, sinks and work stations — can help reduce the amount of disease-causing bacteria in patient rooms.”
Widely publicized statistics from the CDC estimate that infections acquired in U.S. hospitals affect two million individuals every year, resulting in nearly 100,000 deaths.
Unlike coatings for other materials treatments, the antibacterial effectiveness of copper metals doesn’t wear away, offering “solid, long-term protection,” according to the association. There are ongoing discussions with major hospital equipment manufacturers about developing appropriate copper-based products.
Copper in the Home
On its Web site, (copper.org), CDA includes a Home Planning Series that features a set of articles specifically developed to provide useful information on various applications for copper and areas where it can be used.
The information is presented in a clear and easy-to-use format, free of industry jargon or technical lingo, to answer specific questions consumers might have as they build a new home or make changes or upgrades to their existing home.
Headquartered in New York City, the Copper Development Association is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — The Leading Suppliers of NAHB.
This feature is solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing on this page should be construed as policy, an endorsement, warranty or guaranty by the National Association of Home Builders of the featured product or the product manufacturer. The National Association of Home Builders expressly disclaims any responsibility for any damages arising from the use, application or reliance on any information contained on this page.
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