Antimicrobial Copper:
Copper and its alloys, brass and bronze, are naturally antimicrobial materials. Recent laboratory research performed under U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved protocols demonstrated that copper alloy surfaces kill more than 99.9% of several bacteria known to be human pathogens within two hours. Tests were conducted at room temperature and under normal humidity conditions. The organisms tested were:

Staphylococcus aureus
Enterobacter aerogenes
Escherichia coli O157:H7
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

275 copper alloys, including brass and bronze, have been registered with the US EPA as antimicrobial materials that kill these bacteria. The materials offer a wide range of mechanical and aesthetic properties that make them ideal for use as antibacterial surfaces. Copper alloys are the first solid materials ever to be granted such registration. Typically, this type of registration has been granted to liquids (or aerosols) and gases under the categories of sanitizers and disinfectants.

Frequently-touched surfaces in healthcare and other community facilities including public and commercial buildings can become contaminated with bacteria. Using uncoated copper alloys can be an effective way to kill the bacteria on these surfaces.

Additional Research Information
U.S. EPA Approves Registration of Antimicrobial Copper Alloys
EPA Registration- Approved Public Health Claims

NOTE: The use of copper alloy surfaces is a supplement to and not a substitute for standard infection control practices; users must continue to follow all current infection control practices, including those practices related to cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces. The copper alloy surface material has been shown to reduce microbial contamination, but it does not necessarily prevent cross contamination.

Reference material from Copper.org - Antimicrobial Copper Surfaces

Decision: EPA registers copper-containing alloy products

Proper Use and Care of Antimicrobial Copper Alloy Products (Copper.org)

Antimicrobial Copper in Healthcare:

Learn more about antimicrobial copper and the important new role it will play in the fight against MRSA and other bacteria that cause hospital-acquired infections on this short video from copper.org.

These web links are provided for information purposes only. SpecialtyStainless.com makes no direct or implied health claims based on the referenced websites content.

Metal Countertop Fabricators and Antimicrobial Products

The Copper Development Association (CDA) is overseeing firms manufacturing and marketing copper countertops and copper sinks with antimicrobial properties. Requirements include (1) a facilities registration from the CDA and (2) purchasing EPA certified copper materials that meet the antimicrobial certification.