Johnstone’s Paints, based in West Yorkshire, has developed a coating which has been proven to significantly inhibit the growth of MRSA as well as E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other harmful bacteria.
Johnstone’s is not alone in developing anti-bacterial paints and there are a number of other coatings available offering similar properties. However where other paints are based on the use of chemicals which are gradually broken down through cleaning, Johnstone’s Microbarr uses silver ions which actively prevent bacteria from multiplying. Crucially the silver in the Microbarr coating cannot be removed by wiping or washing.
Dr Ronald R. Cutler, principal lecturer in infectious diseases and pathology, School of Health and Bioscience, University of East London, who has been involved in testing Johnstone’s new paint, said it can offer a solution to part of the problem hospitals face: “MRSA remains one of the major hospital infectious agents in the UK and worldwide. MRSA survives well in the environment on surfaces and bedding etc and this makes the problem of control much more difficult.
“Better hospital hygiene is the main method to combat the spread of MRSA so any agent that could aid in improving hygiene and combating spread would be welcome and painting walls with a formulation that would not encourage the survival (and growth) of MRSA could help. “In laboratory tests we have found that when MRSA is left in contact with Microbarr paint there was a significant reduction in the numbers surviving compared with standard paint, which showed MRSA survives and in some cases numbers increase when MRSA is left on its surface over 24 hrs.”
Johnstone’s developed its Microbarr coatings for use in all areas where hygiene protection is required and where surfaces are prone to more than average amounts of “wear and tear”.
Johnstone’s brand manager Kelly Quarmby said: “Johnstone’s Microbarr Anti-bacterial Coatings have been formulated to help in the fight against hospital acquired infections caused by harmful bacteria. They have been developed following intensive research to provide a tough, washable surface, for areas that are subject to frequent cleaning such as hospital wards and clinics.
“The anti-bacterial properties in Johnstone’s Microbarr inhibit bacteria surviving directly on the surface of the coating; however, it is important to recognise that Johnstone’s Microbarr Anti-bacterial Coatings should be used as part of a comprehensive programme of cleaning in order to tackle MRSA and other related infections.”
