“This is a sustainable solution which reduces the source of the infection on toilet visits,” says Lauri Aalto, Product Line Manager who has been heading the project at Evac. “And it’s particularly important in the healthcare sector where there are continuous efforts to tackle iatrogenic contamination”, he added.
“We’ve focused on two key areas, the toilet seat/cover and the pushbutton which are the contact points for the user. These will be made from a new antimicrobial material which looks and feels like normal, but is completely impregnated and goes on giving protection”, Mr Aalto explained.
The objective has been to produce something that is sustainable, long-lasting in its efficacy and avoids the need for additional chemical sprays. The advantage of the antimicrobial material is that it provides extra supporting action between cleaning. It will be available as standard on all Evac Optima 5 and Optima 5S vacuum toilets from January 2022.
There is also an option to retrofit these into existing facilities, either as seat/cover and pushbutton or for high-traffic areas such as public toilets with Evac´s Autoflush option which can give a completely touch-free operation and features the same antimicrobial material in case there is any physical contact.
The higher level of protection is provided by seat/covers and pushbuttons which are made from UF and ASA plastics impregnated with an FDA-approved silver compound. Silver ions are the active ingredient that interacts with the bacteria, rendering them incapable of reproduction. The growth of bacteria is particularly rapid on all types of plastic materials not treated with antimicrobial products. The UF plastic provides the added bonus of stronger toilet seat material, protecting against scratches that can harbour microbes.
The use of silver as a natural purifier is well-established and understood. Evac has carried out tests on the most common bacteria which cause stomach sickness and found the new antimicrobial material produces a reduction up to 99.99%”.
“In one sense it’s a toilet that cleans itself and we believe it’s important in a number of ways. It makes it easier for business owners and facilities managers to show they are taking clear actions to improve users’ safety. From the user perspective, there is extra peace of mind, because the benefits are easy to understand”, Mr Aalto says.
“Hygiene is an area where we would like to extend our technological lead, both in toilet design and materials. Currently, I believe that we are the front runner and I hope the industry can convey these benefits to create greater user confidence, ” he concludes.
