This RIBA accredited Continuing Professional Development resource explains to architects the contribution made by durable and intrinsically antimicrobial materials to reduce infection, improving both patient outcomes and healthcare provider finances.
Choosing the right materials is an essential component of successful healthcare design. In this CPD presentation, the role of antimicrobial copper within good healthcare design is explored, with particular focus on the risks that touch surfaces present.
The material has been approved by the Royal Institute of British Architects through their CPD Providers Network, which offers architects and other construction professionals RIBA-assessed, high-quality CPD material. The following resources are provided and completion counts as 2 hours' CPD:
- Narrated webcast
- Hand out*
- Technical publication*
- Self-assessment and CPD certificate*
* accessible from the webcast.
If your practice requires an in-house presentation then CDA is able to offer this via the pool of approved Cu+ partners using the accredited presentation material. Please email info@copperalliance.org.uk with your request or any related questions.
Content:
The antimicrobial characteristics of copper and copper alloys are described, reviewing the scientific proof, clinical evidence, and the cost-effectiveness of upgrading touch surfaces to antimicrobial copper. Guidance is given on how to recognise facilities that could benefit from an antimicrobial copper installation and how to specify antimicrobial copper products.
Learning objectives:
1. Understanding what healthcare-associated infections are, the dangers they pose and their cost, both financially and in terms of lives lost.
2. Exploring the role of touch surfaces in the spread of infection, and how the problem can be addressed.
3. Learning how to distinguish effective antimicrobial materials for touch surface applications.
4. Gaining an appreciation of the variety of antimicrobial copper items available, the science backing their use and how to specify them for best effect and return on investment.
Copper and copper alloys are engineering materials that are durable, colourful and recyclable and are widely available in various product forms suitable for a range of manufacturing purposes. Copper and its alloys offer a suite of materials for designers of functional, sustainable and cost-effective products.
Copper and certain copper alloys have intrinsic antimicrobial properties (so-called ‘Antimicrobial Copper’) and products made from these materials have an additional, secondary benefit of contributing to hygienic design. Products made from Antimicrobial Copper are a supplement to, not a substitute for standard infection control practices. It is essential that current hygiene practices are continued, including those related to the cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces.