Door Hardware Goes Hi-Tech

Part 1: Door Hardware: Battery-Operated Combination Lock Requires No Wiring

Part 2: Door Hardware: O&M Manuals Contain Parts Lists, Wiring Diagrams

Part 3: Door Hardware: Technician Training Critical with Advanced Technology

Part 4: Door Hardware: Controlling Cross-Contamination

Door Hardware: Controlling Cross-Contamination

By Thomas A. Westerkamp - December 2009

In recent years, manufacturers have improved the designs and materials for mechanical and electric door-hardware components to meet end-user needs.

One timely example involves current concerns about seasonal and H1N1 flu. Maintenance and engineering managers are increasingly concerned about cross-contamination that can help the viruses spread. Door hardware and elevator push buttons are high-contact areas and require sanitizing to minimize bacterial cross-contamination.

In response, manufacturers have developed anti-bacteria, silver-ion coatings that inhibit the growth of algae, bacteria, mold, and mildew on these surfaces.

Tests have shown that copper alloys also possess similar properties. These measures do not eliminate the need for proper cleaning and sanitizing, but they can act as a secondary deterrent to germ growth.

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