Article: Tools To Task
Why Microban Protection?
Bacteria and other micro-organisms are a fact of life. They are everywhere, all around us, all the time. However hard we try, there’s no getting away from them. Some are good for us, others are neutral, but a few are dangerous. So it makes sense to do what we can to protect ourselves against their potentially harmful and undesirable effects.
How Clean Are Your Tiles?
• Bacteria on floors can be a source of cross-contamination and can be hazardous for young children who crawl and play on the floor – as dirt and germs are continually being brought into the home through foot traffic from people and also pets!
• Looking at bacterial hotspots within the home – the kitchen and bathroom has the potential for the highest number of harmful bacteria which can rapidly spread.
• With heavy foot traffic in public areas it’s not surprising that in a survey of foodservice providers and restaurant owners 85% of respondents* said they were concerned about the growth of bacteria, mould and mildew found on flooring in restaurant facilities.
• It is worth bearing in mind that given the right conditions of warmth, a food source, time and a little humidity bacteria can double in number every twenty minutes.
That’s Where Microban Protection Comes In.
Microban and Panaria have teamed up to provide antibacterial protection for their full range of ceramic wall and floor tiles. Panaria ceramic tiles are well known for their beauty, durability and performance; the addition of Microban® silver antibacterial technology provides a continuous level of protection from the growth of harmful bacteria.
Q. What Is Microban Silver Antibacterial Technology?
Microban is an active antibacterial ‘ingredient’ that can be added to a wide range of consumer, industrial and medical products to prevent the growth of bacteria on the surface of the item. As it is integrated at the point of manufacture it offers a long-term solution to the prevention of bacterial growth, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
Microban is not designed to replace a normal cleaning routine – it offers an added level of protection between cleanings.
Q. Aren’t Non-Porous Ceramic Tiles Naturally Resistant To Bacteria?
No. Even though ceramic tiles are a non-porous surface which provides an important benefit in keeping bacteria from penetrating into the tile, bacteria can still multiply and grow on the surface. As it is built into the glaze - Microban antibacterial technology is designed to help prevent the growth of bacteria on the surface of the ceramic tile, where you need it most.
Q. Does Microban Protection Begin Working Immediately?
Yes – Microban protection works continuously, so as bacteria and germs come into contact with the surface of the tile glaze Microban product protection immediately starts to prevent them from growing and reproducing. Since they are unable to grow or reproduce – the tile surface stays cleaner for longer.
Q. Is Microban Protection Safe?
Yes - The antibacterial technology used in Panaria ceramic tiles has a long history of safe use and can be found in a breadth of consumer, industrial and healthcare products – such as toothpaste, water filters, stationery items and more. The Microban antibacterial used in the glaze of Panaria tiles is approved in Europe by the Biocidal Product Directive and undergoes regular tests for efficacy and safety.
Q. Does Microban Antibacterial Protection Wear Away Over Time?
No - Microban active ingredients are incorporated into the glaze during the
manufacturing process. Evenly distributed throughout the matrix Microban actively
protects the entire surface area of the product.
Q. Do You Still Need To Clean Ceramic Tiles If They Have Microban® Protection?
Yes. Microban protection is not a substitute for a thorough cleaning routine. Microban silver technology provides an added level of hygiene protection that helps fight the growth of harmful bacteria and prevent cross-contamination.
