EPA-prescribed independent laboratory testing on Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and five other specific bacteria* show that within two hours of contact, MicroGuard™ antimicrobial copper surfaces kill 99.9% of these deadly bacteria* when cleaned regularly. Testing also demonstrated effective antibacterial* activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis (VRE). The EPA protocol established a new standard for evidence based validation of antimicrobial efficacy.

Laboratory testing required under EPA registration number 85290 showed that when cleaned regularly:

• MicroGuard surfaces continuously reduce bacterial* contamination, achieving 99.9% reduction within two hours of exposure.
• MicroGuard surfaces killed greater than 99.9% of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria* within two hours of exposure.
• MicroGuard surfaces deliver continuous and ongoing antibacterial* action, remaining effective in killing greater than 99.9% of bacteria* within two hours.
• MicroGuard surfaces kill greater than 99.9% of bacteria* within two hours and continues to kill more than 99.9% of bacteria* even after repeated contamination.
• MicroGuard surfaces help inhibit the buildup and growth of bacteria* within two hours of exposure between routine cleaning and sanitizing steps.

MicroGuard surfaces are a supplement and not a substitute for good cleaning and disinfection practices. Since MicroGuard is a solid metal material and not a coating, the antimicrobial properties of MicroGuard will not wear away or be rubbed off. Unlike most coatings, which cannot claim to kill bacteria*, MicroGuard kills 99.9% of infectious bacteria* within two hours. While MicroGuard surfaces are not a substitute for standard infection control practices, MicroGuard is an excellent supplement to a multi-faceted approach to combat hospital acquired infections. MicroGuard offers a dependable, long term approach to continuously reduce microbial burden* on touch surfaces.

Directions for Use

MicroGuard surfaces do not replace standard infection control procedures. MicroGuard surfaces must be cleaned in accordance with standard practice. Healthcare facilities should maintain the product in accordance with their current infection control guidelines. The use of this surface is a supplement to and not a substitute for standard infection control practices. Users must continue to follow all current infection control guidelines, including those practices related to cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces. This surface has been shown to reduce microbial contamination, but does not necessarily prevent cross contamination.

MicroGuard surfaces are subject to recontamination and the level of active bacteria* at any particular time will depend on the frequency and timing of cleaning and recontamination. In order for MicroGuard surfaces to have proper antimicrobial effect, the surfaces must be cleaned according to directions for use. MicroGuard surfaces cannot be waxed, painted, lacquered, varnished, or otherwise coated.

Routine cleaning to remove dirt and filth is necessary for good sanitation and to assure the effective antibacterial performance of this surface. Cleaning agents typically used for traditional hard, non-porous touch surfaces are permissible. The appropriate cleaning agent depends on the type of soiling and the measure of sanitization required. Normal tarnishing or wear of MicroGuard surfaces will not impair antimicrobial effectiveness.

 

MicroGuard surfaces are not approved for direct food contact. MicroGuard materials are designed for use on interior touch surfaces.

*Testing demonstrates effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli O157:H7, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis (VRE). MicroGuard touch surfaces reduce microbial contamination, but do not necessarily prevent cross contamination.