Biomaster calls time on dirty pull cords

Pull cords in toilet areas have long been recognised as a potential infection risk.

During use, they can become heavily contaminated with faecal and skin bacteria. Some of these germs may be pathogenic, representing a potential source of cross-infection and health risk to the carrier. The multifilament braid design of commonly used cords in healthcare and domestic settings, which has an uneven surface, also makes effective cleaning very difficult.

As part of a unique collaboration with CAAMIC (Centre for the Application of Advanced Materials in Infection Control) and  Addmaster (Uk) Ltd, Addmaster has developed the Clean PullCord, complete with a durable wipe clean coating impregnated with Biomaster antimicrobial technology. It has a smooth, non-PVC polymer coating which can be used with standard cleaning products or disinfectants and the inbuilt Biomaster protection provides protection 24 hours a day from bugs such as E.coli and MRSA.

The Biomaster Clean PullCord has the appearance and characteristics of a standard pull cord and can be retrofitted to lights, shower pulls, disabled alarm pulls and nurse alarm systems. It is currently available in white, translucent blue, red, orange and in an anti ligature version.

The product has also attracted interest from other areas such as care homes, doctor’s surgeries and catering establishments.

Dr Vicki Ensor, Innovation Development Manager for CAAMIC, said: “This fast turnaround from concept to actual product was a surprise and it was pleasing to see how quickly the ideas could be turned into reality. Now we have the product we can see what a simple idea it is”.

Addmaster (UK) Ltd Marketing Manager Karl Shaw comments: “Biomaster technology works round the clock to reduce the growth of the microbes preventing them from reaching potential dangerous levels. The Biomaster Clean PullCord is a perfect example of how the NHS can work with antibacterial technology  to develop new, safer  products to help prevent the spread of cross-infection in hospitals.“

*Please note that Addmaster was acquired by the Polygiene Group AB in January 2021, so all news articles prior to that date will still be branded as Addmaster.