According to Perkins and Will and the nonprofit Healthy Building Network, building products with antimicrobial treatments are not proved to be a safe or effective means of controlling the spread of COVID-19.
The two organizations issued a statement reaffirming the conclusion of their March 2017 white paper on antimicrobial building products: Antimicrobial additives have not been proven to have the health benefits they promote, and alternatives should be sought wherever possible. No scientific evidence exists that demonstrates any health benefits from antimicrobial additives in building products and materials. “There is no evidence that the addition of antimicrobials to building products lowers the rate of infection or that they lead to a healthier population,” said Teresa McGrath, HBN Chief Research Officer and Toxicologist. These products include textile, furnishings, flooring, tiles, and other surfaces and interior finishes.
It is quite the contrary, in fact, as evidence suggests that with repeated human exposure, antimicrobials can inadvertently contribute to the formation of “super bugs” that are resistant to medical treatment. Antimicrobial additives have also been shown to leach out of materials during use and enter drains and water treatment facilities. Some antimicrobials, such as nano silver, are considered toxic to humans and entire aquatic ecosystems. Another issue with antimicrobial products is that they can create a false sense of security, which may lead to a reduced role of proper cleaning and less-diligent facility maintenance.
Related Stories
Coronavirus | Jun 23, 2020
A look back at design standard shifts: ADA vs. COVID-19
The short story is official design guidelines are slow to be developed and made into law.
Coronavirus | Jun 23, 2020
WATG designs solution for isolating without sacrificing social connectivity
The design was inspired by oriel bay windows.
Coronavirus | Jun 22, 2020
Boldt creates an innovation task force to speed up safe opening of jobsites, 14 offices
Boldt creates an innovation task force to speed up safe opening of jobsites, 14 offices
Coronavirus | Jun 19, 2020
Experts address COVID-19's impact on nursing homes and schools on The Weekly
The June 18 episode of BD+C's "The Weekly" is available for viewing on demand.
Coronavirus | Jun 18, 2020
Brown University tops off first housing building in three decades
The facility, scheduled for completion next April, will combine a residence hall with student health services.
Coronavirus | Jun 17, 2020
HOK and Germfree partner to design mobile COVID-19 testing lab
Access to quick, reliable, and repeated testing has been one of the greatest challenges for businesses, institutions and individuals during the COVID-19 crisis.
Coronavirus | Jun 17, 2020
Guiding changes in the workplace: Past, present, and future
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies are managing sudden change as they assess the impact on workplace design and how people use spaces.
Coronavirus | Jun 14, 2020
A new report on how campus buildings can reopen safely
Leo A Daly white paper suggests dividing students into smaller “cohorts,” and assigning bathroom spaces.
Coronavirus | Jun 12, 2020
BD+C launches 'The Weekly,' a streaming program for the design and construction industry
The first episode, now available on demand, features experts from Robins & Morton, Gensler, and FMI on the current state of the AEC market.
Coronavirus | Jun 9, 2020
Going viral: How the coronavirus pandemic could change the built environment
Architecture and construction firms—and their clients—are asking new questions about infection control as it pertains to people assembly, building wellness, and technology.