Allegion and other door hardware manufacturers offer door hardware (that is manually operated by hand) with optional finishes that are antimicrobial.

What does Antimicrobial mean?

According to Allegion’s website: “The antimicrobial coating [on door hardware] is specially formulated to inhibit the growth of bacteria by interrupting cell multiplication. The result is that the silver ions surround the bacterial cells, blocking food and slowing the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew.”

Additionally, according to Allegion: “An antimicrobial coating on door hardware reduces the spread of bacteria, fungi and mold. It provides an added level of defense against microbes such as MRSA, e-coli, salmonella and stretococcus faecalis.”

How does it apply to Door Hardware?

The antimicrobial finish, available on certain products from Allegion, is a clear coating that is BHMA certified and provides a long lasting protection to the door hardware. Typically this finish is available from most manufacturers in a 626AM Satin Chrome or 630AM Satin Stainless Steel finish.

Surfaces such as door levers and pull handles are susceptible to germ transfer. Many places are aware of the need to clean and disinfect surfaces such as tables, chairs, etc. Not everyone may think to clean the door hardware to prevent the spread of bacteria. Think of a doctor’s office where a sick patient who has the sniffles travels through a common area door. Shortly thereafter, a nurse or doctor then may pass through the same door to check other patients. These germs can spread quickly through a facility if proper steps are not taken. Antimicrobial door hardware can help combat these possibilities.

Healthcare facilities take additional precautions such as using hand cleanser between patient visits, so they can mitigate a lot of the risk. However, other types of facilities may not take steps like this and may be more at risk for the spread of germs when using door hardware. Imagine a school or university where common doors such as restrooms and cafeterias are used by many of the building’s occupants. When doors are used by all of these people, each time someone uses a door handle it can spread germs. Using antimicrobial finishes can help cut back on the potential passing of sickness or infections.

High traffic, public use buildings are places where antimicrobial finishes are the ideal application. With hundreds of people going in and out every day, the antimicrobial finish can inhibit the growth of bacteria on door hardware.

What Hardware is available with Antimicrobial finish?

Ives Hardware

  • 8102HD, 8103HD, 8103EZHD, 8105, 8111, 8112, 8121, 8190HD, 8200, 8302, 8303, 8305, 8311, 9100HD, 9103EZHD, 9190HD

Schlage

  • AL, B500, B600/700/800, ND, L9000, LV9000, LT, HL6, PL7, PL8

Von Duprin

  • 33A/35A, 55, 88, 94/95, 98/99, XP98/99 exit devices
  • 996, 990, 360, 386, 388 and LP373L exit device trims

Hospital Paddle 1

Other manufacturers are also available with antimicrobial finishes. For more information or to request a free quote, contact Beacon Commercial Door & Lock to learn more about door hardware with antimicrobial finishes.