Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 18th April 2024 Issue no. 1110
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Leviton's new antimicrobial treated switches and wallplates keep hospitals, schools and kitchens safer
Leviton has this week introduced the first in its new line of antimicrobial treated devices. The offering includes toggle switches and stainless steel wall plates in various configurations.
Designed as part of a solution to work in conjunction with regular cleaning procedures, the products are made with an antimicrobial additive embedded into their construction to help keep switch and wallplate surfaces cleaner.
The Leviton line of antimicrobial treated devices is a perfect fit for healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hospitality venues, commercial kitchens and other public service areas. Antimicrobial materials are increasingly being used in various industries as rising awareness about cleanliness and the spread of bacteria among consumers is driving the preference of these devices. Leviton's devices are intended to help keep frequently touched surfaces of switches, wallplates and other electrical wiring devices clean of bacteria and microbes.
"At Leviton, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that promote both human and equipment safety," explains Michael Mattei, vice president and general manager of Leviton Commercial & Industrial.
"As a result we have developed a line of antimicrobial treated wiring devices that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould, fungi and mildew, helping to keep switches and wallplates cleaner and safer from cross contamination."
Antimicrobial treated devices from Leviton are made with materials that include an US Environmental Protection Agency-registered additive to protect them against the growth of harmful bacteria on their surfaces. Silver ions in the materials act as the antimicrobial agent by inhibiting cell division and preventing bacteria from reproducing.
These materials have been tested to the internationally recognized JIS Z 2801:2000 industrial standard test protocol for measuring antimicrobial efficacy and have proven to show a consistent 99.9% microbial reduction rate against a broad range of bacteria including E-coli and MRSA.
The current offering of antimicrobial treated devices includes a 20 Amp toggle switch available in single-pole and three-way functionalities and stainless steel wallplates available in single- and double-gang configurations. Leviton plans to release Decora versions of the switch and wallplate in the coming months as well as additional colour options of all antimicrobial treated devices.
Antimicrobial protection is limited to the product itself, and Leviton does not make any direct or implied health claims about the antimicrobial properties of the devices.
13th November 2014