Question : Antimicrobial Copper

(a) whether the Government is aware of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement in February, 2021 that certain copper alloys provide long-term effectiveness against viruses, including SARS-COV-2;

(b) if so, whether the Government has any plans to utilize antimicrobial copper in trains coaches, railway stations and platforms to prevent the spread of infections during times such as the current pandemic and provide inbuilt 24x7 safety systems to the passengers;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS, COMMUNICATIONS AND
ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW)

(a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the house.
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STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF STATRRED QUESTION NO. 204 BY DR. RAJDEEP ROY TO BE ANSWERED IN LOK SABHA ON 16.03.2022 REGARDING ANTIMICROBIAL COPPER.


(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) to (d) Following items, with “Antimicrobial copper coating” have been provided in 300 coaches by Rail Coach Factory/ Kapurthala:-
(i) Entrance hand rail complete with copper coating.
(ii) Handle for Vestibule area with copper coating.
In order to control the spread of infections during the time such as current pandemic, all Zonal Railways have been advised for use of Sodium Hypochlorite (1%) including disinfection of contact area/ fittings like seat with rexine covers, door handles, toilet and toilet fittings such as door handles and latches, water taps, hand rails, switches, etc. for cleaning and sanitization of coach when Corona infected / suspected passenger travels.
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