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Participating Hospitals:
Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC
BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC
North York General Hospital, Toronto, ON
Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON
Three Cu formulations were assessed a) spray–on 80% Cu 20% Ni (spray-on) (b) solid alloy 80% Cu 20% Ni (integral copper) and c) 16% composite Cu-impregnated surface. Coupons (1cm2) of the three products and control surgical grade (AISI 316) stainless steel (SS) were inserted into gaskets and adhered onto clinical carts used in patient care areas (including Emergency and Maternity units) (n=480) and on microbiology laboratory bench workspaces (n=240). The microbial burden and assessment of resistance to wear, corrosion, and material compatibility were determined every three months. Three tertiary care Canadian adult and one pediatric/maternity hospital participated.
Cu formulations used on inpatient units statistically significantly reduced bacterial bioburden compared to SS at months 3 and 6. Only the integral product had significantly less bacteria compared to SS at month twelve. There were no statistically significant differences in microbial burden between Cu formulations and SS coupons on microbiology laboratory benches where bacterial counts were low overall. All mass changes and corrosion rates of the formulations were acceptable by engineering standards.
[Project length 2 ½ years]
Published the CSA Cleaning and Disinfection in healthcare facilities standard Z317.12-20 as the first national standard.
