Leviton Introduces Line of Antimicrobial Treated Devices to Protect Against Harmful Surface Bacteria

New switches and wallplates ideal for hospitals, schools and commercial kitchens

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Nov 04, 2014, 11:49 ET

MELVILLE, N.Y., Nov. 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Leviton today introduced the first devices in their new line of antimicrobial treated devices. The offering includes toggle switches and stainless steel wall plates in various configurations. Designed as part of a solution to work in conjunction with regular cleaning procedures, the Leviton devices are made with an antimicrobial additive embedded into their construction to help keep switch and wallplate surfaces cleaner.

The Leviton line of antimicrobial treated devices is a perfect fit for healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hospitality venues, commercial kitchens and other public service areas. Antimicrobial materials are increasingly being used in various industries as rising awareness about cleanliness and the spread of bacteria among consumers is driving the preference of these devices. Leviton's devices are intended to help keep frequently touched surfaces of switches, wallplates and other electrical wiring devices clean of bacteria and microbes.

"At Leviton, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that promote both human and equipment safety," explained Michael Mattei, Vice President and General Manager of Leviton Commercial & Industrial. "As a result we have developed a line of antimicrobial treated wiring devices that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, fungi and mildew, helping to keep switches and wallplates cleaner and safer from cross contamination."

Antimicrobial treated devices from Leviton are made with materials that include an E.P.A. registered additive to protect the devices against the growth of harmful bacteria on their surfaces. Silver ions in the materials act as the antimicrobial agent by inhibiting cell division and preventing bacteria from reproducing. These materials have been tested to the internationally recognized JIS Z 2801:2000 industrial standard test protocol for measuring antimicrobial efficacy and have proven to show a consistent 99.9 percent microbial reduction rate against a broad range of bacteria including E-coli and MRSA.

The current offering of antimicrobial treated devices includes a 20 Amp toggle switch available in single-pole and three-way functionalities and stainless steel wallplates available in single- and double-gang configurations. Leviton plans to release Decora^® versions of the switch and wallplate in the coming months as well as additional color options of all antimicrobial treated devices.

Antimicrobial protection is limited to the product itself, and Leviton does not make any direct or implied health claims about the antimicrobial properties of the devices. To learn more about antimicrobial treated devices from Leviton visit www.leviton.com/antimicrobial.

About Leviton Commercial and Industrial
Leviton's comprehensive line of commercial and industrial-grade electrical wiring devices provide builders, contractors and specifiers with solutions engineered to withstand the most rigorous commercial environments and harshest industrial applications. Leviton manufacturers everything from commercial, industrial and hospital grade wiring devices, to surge protective devices, electric vehicle supply equipment, temporary power solutions, heavy duty motor starter switches, IEC and NEMA watertight rated devices and more. Learn more at www.leviton.com/industrial.

About Leviton
Leviton is the smart choice, providing the most comprehensive range of solutions to meet the needs of today's residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Leveraging more than a century of experience, Leviton helps customers create sustainable, intelligent environments through its electrical wiring devices, network and data center connectivity solutions, and lighting energy management systems. From switches and receptacles, to daylight harvesting controls, networking systems, and equipment for charging electric vehicles, Leviton solutions help customers achieve savings in energy, time and cost, all while enhancing safety. For more information, visit www.leviton.com, http://www.facebook.com/leviton, http://twitter.com/leviton or http://www.youtube.com/Levitonmfg.

SOURCE Leviton