Interest around clinical standards and frequent cleaning has increased noticeably among consumers and industries in recent times. This has been particularly true in areas where high standards of cleanability are paramount, including the healthcare market.

With a proven track record of developing products that meet the requirements of trade professionals, Dulux Trade is well positioned to address this new challenge. For more than 15 years, Dulux Trade has been providing paints that promote a more hygienic environment through its Sterishield Diamond Matt range. A quick drying, water based coating containing an in-film bactericide, Sterishield Diamond Matt has been used in healthcare environments to help inhibit bacteria and reduce populations of MRSA and E.coli when used in conjunction with appropriate cleaning practices.

As customer needs continue to evolve, Dulux is constantly innovating to improve its existing paint ranges while also launching new products that fit the specific requirements of trade professionals. This led to the creation of Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt, a new addition to the Sterishield family that builds on the range’s credentials by offering both anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties to contribute in supporting environmental hygiene* .

Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt is a quick-drying, water-based coating containing in-film antimicrobial additives that inhibit bacteria and viruses**2 within the paint film. It reduces populations of MRSA, E. coli, Coronaviruses and Human Herpesvirus, helping to promote a more hygienic environment when combined with appropriate cleaning practices. Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt is a stain resistant, scrubbable, durable matt finish emulsion suitable for all normal interior wall and ceiling surfaces. It achieves ISO 11998 Class 1 and Type C BS 7719 scrub ratings, making it ideal for high use areas that require regular cleaning.

Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt is available now in White, Light Base, Medium Base and Extra Deep Base colour options. To find out more about new Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt and the full Sterishield range, visit the Dulux Trade website at https://www.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk/en

Andrew Cleaver, National Sector Manager Healthcare of Dulux Decorator Centre, highlights the important considerations for decorating contractors taking on healthcare projects;

“Hygiene and aesthetics are two important factors for any decorating job but takes on an extra dimension when working on healthcare projects. Maintaining the health and wellbeing of staff and patients is one of the top priorities for contractors operating in healthcare environments, so it’s essential to pick the right paint and tools for the job. For example, fumes from solvent-based paints can affect the air quality of a hospital room and, in turn, the health of patients. Using water-based paints will help to alleviate some of these issues.

“Colour is another important factor in healthcare decorating projects. Specific colours can trigger certain moods in patients and employees, while also helping people to distinguish between different hospital areas and helping those with visual impairments. Dulux Trade has its own Healthcare Colour Palette, based on research evidence, that can help specify the right shades and tones that will deliver great healthcare outcomes for clients.

“Specific healthcare rooms and areas will also require specialist paints to deliver the best results. For example, we would recommend products such as Dulux Trade Sterishield Dual Active Matt, a water-based coating that contains an in-film bactericide that inhibits the build-up of viruses and bacteria on walls when used with appropriate cleaning procedures.”