Antimicrobial Copper: an innovative weapon in the fight to improve infection control in healthcare

Antimicrobial Copper provides a strong line of defense against harmful bacteria and must be cared for in order to work effectively and improve patient safety.

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Following the unprecedented registration of Antimicrobial Copper as the only touch surface that continuously kills bacteria that threaten patient safety, the EPA instated a Stewardship Program to ensure the proper use and care of these innovative building materials.  The Stewardship Plan promotes the responsible use of Antimicrobial Copper and clarifies misleading statements discovered in various media.

The use of Antimicrobial Copper alloys (such as brass and bronze) does not replace standard hospital infection control procedures and good hygienic practices. Antimicrobial Copper surfaces must be cleaned and sanitized according to standard practice. Healthcare facilities must maintain the product in accordance with infection control guidelines; users must continue to follow all current infection control practices, including those practices related to disinfection of environmental surfaces.

Antimicrobial Copper surfaces may be subject to recontamination and the level of active bacteria at any particular time will depend on the frequency and timing of recontamination and cleanliness of the surface (among other factors).

Antimicrobial Copper surfaces must not be waxed, painted, lacquered, varnished, or otherwise coated.

Routine cleaning to remove dirt and filth is necessary for good hygiene and to assure the effective antimicrobial performance of the Antimicrobial Copper surface. Cleaning agents typically used for traditional touching surfaces are permissible; the appropriate cleaning agent depends on the type of soiling and the measure of sanitization required. Normal tarnishing or wear of Antimicrobial Copper surfaces will not impair the antimicrobial effectiveness of the product as the antimicrobial property is inherent to the copper.

These products are not approved for use in any form that has direct food contact or as food packaging.

Antimicrobial Copper surfaces may be used in hospitals, other healthcare facilities, and various public, commercial, and residential buildings for approved non-food contact surfaces. Surfaces that may be exposed to outdoor environmental conditions (e.g. handrails, shopping carts, and ATM machines) are not representative of indoor laboratory test conditions, and therefore, may impart reduced efficacy if not cleaned when visibly soiled.