There is a big difference between bacteria retention levels, depending on the surfaces that you either have already, or choose to have when building or renovating your organization’s office. All surfaces were not created equal, and some have larger pores, hold moisture longer, trap heat and more, leading to a difference in bacteria levels. Some surfaces are considered antimicrobial, some directly attract microbes, and others are somewhere in between. Bacterial, fungal, and viral growth can greatly interfere with trying to keep a workplace clean depending on the surfaces.
Some of the antimicrobial surfaces that are used for things like doorknobs, sinks, and handles consist of copper, silver, and nanocoatings. These all have different mechanisms of action. Copper is extremely effective at fighting bacteria, as bacteria tends to actually absorb the copper into itself. This causes the membranes to begin to use more copper than needed, stopping the bacteria from synthesizing proteins, breaking down its membrane walls, and leaking other needed minerals. As well, the copper encourages growth of hydrogen peroxide, which destroys the integrity of the cell.
Silver works much differently than copper, in that silver for the most part does not do direct damage to the microbes which leads to that specific microbe’s death. Instead, it stops the cell from being able to copy its DNA to replicate, meaning that it will not be able to reproduce and dies out after only one generation.
Organosilane nanocoatings are so abrasive that when the outer walls of the bacteria connect to the coating, it literally rips them apart. While they do not stop DNA replication or cause nutrient uptake, a big advantage is that you can use them on any type of surface. Whether it is a hard surface or a soft surface, the abrasiveness may not stop DNA replication, but it will stop them from being able to colonize. These coatings can also be mixed with ammonium to multiply the effect, increasing the damage to outer walls.
Textile materials are far more prone to microbial growth due to the amount of ridges in between the fibers. So things like carpets and drapes (especially thick ones), will really hurt your ability to keep the area clean. These materials will require much more care to keep clean.
On wood surfaces, the efficiency depends on humidity and other external factors. The type of wood also matters: pine is by far the most effective wood at fighting growth, followed by oak wood. Other types of wood are much less efficient. There is a reason that many cutting blocks were made of wood. But wood tends to trap microbes, normally stuck below the surface. A possible result is them coming out, though it is less likely than with other materials for foodstuff.
Synthetic materials like plastic or steel are a lot easier to clean, and can be cleaned thoroughly quite effectively. However, they tend to keep germs on longer if not kept clean. So while they may be better for surfaces regularly cleaned, they aren’t the best for all needs. The best designs will make use of certain materials for small applications, and avoid entirely other material types.
For more information and tips on keeping your workplace clean and healthy, visit Business Hygiene in San Marcos, TX.
