720798Self Cleaning Door Handle Cover - Development of PrototypeClosedGRD Development of PrototypeInnovate UKThe problem of dirty door handles spreading infections from one user to another is widely known and publicised. This is why the NHS and Food Standards Agency specify that door handles must be cleaned routinely as part of the cleaning protocol. Despite these guidelines, it is widely acknowledged by professions in the industry that this cleaning rarely happens. The project aim is to develop a simple, consumable plastic handle that "snaps" onto an existing pull handle to act as a cover. This “snap-on” handle will be coated in a specially selected, antibacterial coating which acts as a self-cleaning surface to kill bacteria & viruses and prevent cross-contamination from one user to another. The aim is for the product to have a shelf life of 6 to 9 months before it needs to be replaced, thus making it a consumable product. It will contain a visual indicator to make clear to end users when it needs to be replaced (i.e. because the antibacterial coating has “worn” and become ineffective). Once the prototype has been developed, the project aims to prove that there is significant product demand across a number of industries, specifically food processing, healthcare, schools & hotels. Pure Hold Ltd currently sells its Pure Hold Hygiene Handle (a gel dispensing door handle) into these markets and early discussions with customers on the product concept indicate that they are interested in deploying it, hence why they have been selected for prototype field trials as part of the project. This project is technically innovative as it brings together state-of-the-art, antibacterial coating technology with cutting edge product design to make a product that customers can easily use, understand and benefit from. It is also commercially innovative because Pure Hold Ltd will utilise its existing infrastructure, customer contacts & experience to launch this “snap-on” product in the UK and Internationally, therefore significantly de-risking the project.