Arcolectric - an Elektron Technology connectivity brand - has partnered with BioCote Ltd to offer a range of switches and covers with built in BioCote antimicrobial technology, providing integral protection from a wide range of micro-organisms, including bacteria, mould and fungi.

Recent high profile reports into antibiotic resistance have highlighted the need for robust infection prevention strategies, helping to eliminate antibiotic resistant organisms before they can cause infection. Arcolectric can incorporate BioCote® active silver ion technology into any of its ranges of rocker, push button and double pole switches, as well as dust and splash resistant covers. This reduces the presence of bacteria by up to 99.9 %, with no decrease in efficacy for the expected life span of the component, offering equipment manufacturers a key differentiator for the laboratory, healthcare and food processing sectors.

John McVeigh, Product Manager for Arcolectric, commented: "Switches and controls are often the first contact point for a user when they interact with a product, making these 'high traffic' areas a key target in the fight against microbial contamination. Integration of BioCote's innovative antimicrobial technology into our components represents an important step forward, providing our customers with a straightforward enhancement that will benefit end users without impacting on equipment design or manufacture."