Strong surface in the fight against germs

The antimicrobial effect of the Sanitized® hygiene function inhibits the growth of bacteria and germs, thereby reliably protecting even between cleaning cycles. (Photo: DLW Flooring GmbH)

The flooring Favorite PUR+ with Sanitized® supports hygiene through the active ingredient silver phosphate glass integrated into the surface coating. (Photo: DLW Flooring GmbH)

DLW Vinyl Favorite with Sanitized® effectively and permanently reduces the growth of a variety of microorganisms, confirmed by the ISEGA Institute according to ISO 22196 and the germ count test. (Photo: DLW Flooring GmbH)

The Mix & Match modular system from DLW Flooring allows for a consistent design concept for all technical requirements – soundproof, conductive, slip-resistant, or with hygienic function. (Photo: DLW Flooring GmbH)

Hygiene has long been a central part of daily hospital and care routines. The numbers for hospital-acquired infections have already been significantly reduced; according to the German Society for Hospital Hygiene (DGKH), the current infection rate is 4-5%. To further decrease this, the topic is anchored, among other places, in §23 of the Infection Protection Act and in the hospital hygiene regulations of the federal states. In addition to thorough disinfection and sterilization, hygiene-supporting building materials can play an important role in combating nosocomial infections.

In particular, the floor plays a crucial role in the daily fight against germs and pathogens in hospitals, senior, and care facilities. To effectively protect it between cleaning cycles, DLW Flooring integrates a powerful Sanitized® hygiene function into the surface treatment of the vinyl flooring Favorite. This coating has an antimicrobial and thus growth-inhibiting effect and has already proven effective in other products.

Cleaning and disinfection procedures reduce the number of microorganisms on treated surfaces. According to the Robert Koch Institute, a normal cleaning reduces microorganisms by about 50-80%, while effective disinfection can reduce microorganisms by 84-99.9%. However, recontamination of surfaces can occur within a few hours. The Sanitized® hygiene function provides support here, as it reliably protects even between cleaning cycles, contributing to long-lasting hygiene. It is thus an optimal supplement to the necessary hygiene process and, in combination with regular disinfection measures, increases protection against potentially dangerous pathogens.

The Favorite flooring with Sanitized® demonstrably inhibits the growth of a wide range of microorganisms and germs, including the feared antibiotic-resistant MRSA. In addition to MRSA, its effectiveness was tested at the ISEGA Institute according to ISO 22196 and confirmed with a 99.9% kill rate for the following bacteria: Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, VRE, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Sanitized® is based on the active ingredient silver phosphate glass, which is classified as safe for humans and the environment. It also acts as a permanent material protection, so floors look newer longer and age significantly slower. Favorite PUR+ with Sanitized® is free of phthalates and manufactured in southern Germany according to the latest production standards certified to DIN ISO.

For a harmonious overall concept, especially in healthcare facilities, DLW Flooring has developed a "Mix & Match" modular system that combines special coverings with different technical properties in 15 identical colors: Conductive – the conductive variant for operating rooms and laboratories, R10 – a slip-resistant covering, suitable for sanitary areas, Acoustic – with increased impact sound insulation for corridors, or Sanitized® – with hygiene function. Additionally, there are the basic structures Favorite and the high-contrast pastel shades.

DLW Vinyl is a proven flooring for hygienically sensitive areas, as the seams of sheet goods can be welded seamlessly. This inherently reduces dirt and bacteria buildup. Furthermore, seamless hygienic installation with cove profiles or cove skirting boards with 100% tight joint closure, as well as bathtub installation, are possible.

Since choosing the right flooring in healthcare is a special challenge, DLW Flooring has compiled all important information in the brochures "Medicine & Health" and "Living, Caring, and Supporting." These can be found in the download section of the DLW website.