Hygene Protection
Whilst the importance of the material of construction is frequently underestimated, the role of biocides is sometimes overestimated. It is true that full thickness penetration of biocides can ensure long-term hygienic protection, even if the product is scratched or damaged. But their presence should not be seen as a replacement for thorough cleaning and disinfection regimes after fitting. Contrary to any claims, to our knowledge, no biocide can guarantee 100% protection against bacteria, and anything less than 100% should be deemed a risk. Adhesion integrity and the management of potential areas of stress/weakness are also important in retaining hygiene protection. Specifiers looking for compliance with all EU Directives on health and hygiene should request wall cladding is tested according to ISO 22196 guidelines and meeting JIS Z 2801 standards. We at Eurtile meet the requirements of the European Directive on the Hygiene of Foodstuffs (93/43/EEC) ensuring compliance both in the Ireland and Europe. Adhesion Integrity One of the most fundamental factors contributing to hygiene performance is the method of adhesion. Whilst the recommended method of installing wall cladding has always been to fully-bond the cladding substrate to the wall, more recent entrants in the cladding manufacturing sector have advocated the practice of affixing the cladding by gunning on or 'dot and dabbing' with silicone. This practice can trap bacteria between the cladding and the wall, undermining hygiene performance. Benefits of reduced cost are traded off against an increased level of risk. In contrast, a fully-bonded system reduces opportunities for the growth of bacteria and adds strength, as the strength of the cladding itself is combined with that of the substrate immediately behind it, which is what we do best. Customer Maintenance Complex, extremely rigorous cleaning regimes, using special products or equipment, should not be deemed necessary to maintain performance of the cladding. Specifiers should look for products that only require quick, simple day-to-day care, for example, those that are easily wiped clean which we also supply to trade. Sustainability The environmental impact of buildings has become an increasingly important issue for architects, the construction industry, contractors, facilities managers and building occupants. The considerable benefi ts of PVC-based materials for wall cladding have to be balanced against their environmental performance. The progress of individual wall cladding manufacturers in the area of sustainability varies signifi cantly depending on the priorities and levels of investment of individual companies. Moving towards greater sustainability can involve extensive research and development, and considerable capital investment to create infrastructure for material re-use and recycling.