Amusement parks are fun-filled experiences for families and friends. But with thousands of visitors walking through the gates each day, these parks can quickly turn into a breeding ground for product-degrading microbes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed cleanliness to the forefront of people’s minds, especially when it comes to public spaces. This is evidenced in the drop in visitor numbers to major theme parks around the world.
According to an AYTM survey, over 80% of visitors are worried about exposure to bacteria when visiting an amusement park or arcade. In fact, the cleanliness of surfaces and equipment is considered one of the top two most important factors, after staff friendliness. These statistics highlight the importance of taking a proactive approach to cleanliness, and the consideration of longer-term solutions to support regular cleaning routines.
In this blog, Microban delves into why amusement parks should consider incorporating antimicrobial technologies into key surfaces and equipment throughout the facilities.
Why is it important to keep amusement parks clean?
Amusement parks are high-traffic environments, attracting thousands of visitors each day. With so many people touching the same surfaces, it’s easy for microbes to grow and spread quickly.
Beyond cleanliness concerns, microbial build-up - such as bacteria and mold growth - can lead to premature surface deterioration and diminished aesthetics. This not only reduces the lifespan of key equipment, but it also negatively impacts visitor perceptions of cleanliness.
Prioritizing smart solutions can help protect key surfaces from microbial attack and keep parks running smoothly for years to come.
In summary, visitors are more likely to enjoy their time when they feel that the facilities are well-maintained. This can lead to repeat business and positive reviews, ultimately boosting the park’s reputation and profitability.
How does antimicrobial technology keep amusement park surfaces cleaner?
Integrated into surfaces at the stage of manufacture or applied as a post-treatment coating, Microban antimicrobial technology works to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on surfaces. This always-on technology delivers added protection against product stains, odors and premature product degradation, helping to support regular cleaning routines and reducing the need for costly maintenance or repairs.
Unlike traditional disinfectants, built-in antimicrobial technology works for the expected lifetime of the surface and does not have to be reapplied over time. This gives park visitors added peace of mind, knowing that the surfaces and equipment they come into contact with is inherently cleaner and fresher.
Benefits of incorporating antimicrobial technology into key surfaces in amusement parks
Integrating antimicrobial technologies into high-touch surfaces throughout amusement parks can provide numerous benefits, including:
Enhanced cleanliness: Surfaces stay cleaner for longer, in-between cleaning.
Lifetime protection: Antimicrobial solutions deliver permanent surface protection against degrading microbes, even after repeated surface use and cleaning.
Extended lifetime: Products and surfaces are protected against degrading microbial growth, extending their usable lifespan.
Reduced maintenance costs: Products and surfaces are less likely to degrade or require premature replacement due to microbial growth.
Greater peace of mind. Visitors will feel confident and reassured knowing that antimicrobial technology is working around the clock to keep surfaces cleaner between cleans.
Distinct competitive advantage: A recent AYTM survey showed that incorporating Microban antimicrobial protection into surfaces and equipment would improve visitor experiences, with over 80% agreeing. Additionally, 70% of consumers expressed their willingness to pay a premium to gain access to an amusement park or arcade that has surfaces and equipment treated with Microban technology.
Amusement park surfaces that could benefit from antimicrobial technology
Microban antimicrobial technologies can be integrated into a wide range of materials and surfaces in amusement parks, including:
Safety bars and handrails - We all know safety is paramount in amusement parks, not just for the super tall and fast rides, but also for essential safety features like handrails and safety bars. These items are touched by thousands of hands every day, making them high-risk areas for microbial bacterial contamination. Fortunately, our range of antimicrobial additives & technologies can help combat the microorganisms dangers that are invisible to the naked eye across a wide range of surfaces and equipment.
Roller coaster seats and cars - The build-up of microbes can lead to unsightly staining, unpleasant odor, and even accelerate the degradation of roller coaster seats, resulting in premature maintenance. Micoban technologies provide an added layer of protection against microbial growth, helping roller coaster seats stay cleaner for longer between routine cleaning.
Counter surfaces - Surfaces treated with built-in antimicrobial protection can enhance surface cleanliness by inhibiting bacteria growth 24/7. This proven technology delivers an ‘always-on’ line of defence, working to complement regular cleaning.
Food preparation and service areas including food trays - Food service environments can be hotspots for microbial growth. Menus, for example, are frequently touched by customers and staff, making them a prime target for bacterial contamination. Bacteria can accumulate on menu surfaces and in the crevices between pages, leading to staining and premature product degradation. However, laminated or coated menus enhanced with Microban technologies benefit from permanent surface protection against the growth and spread of bacteria, keeping the menu cleaner for longer.
Restroom fixtures, such as faucets and door handles - Public restrooms are notorious breeding grounds for bacteria. Faucets, door handles, hand dryers, and refillable soap dispensers can quickly become contaminated with harmful microbes. Antimicrobial technology can be engineered into polymer components to deliver around-the-clock material protection from invisible and product-degrading nasties.
Touchscreen kiosks and interactive displays - Interactive displays and touchscreen kiosks are also high-risk areas for microbial contamination. In fact, a study conducted at eight fast food locations found that all eight self-order touchscreens tested were contaminated with bacterial and fecal matter. That’s where antimicrobial coatings for touchscreens come in handy. They provide an added layer of defense against the growth of harmful bacteria that works 24/7/365 for the lifetime of the coating.
Plus, many more!
Conclusions
Microban antimicrobial technologies can be integrated into a multitude of high-touch surfaces, delivering ultimate product protection against bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. Incorporating this innovative technology into amusement park surfaces can create an inherently cleaner environment for visitors and staff, while also delivering added peace of mind. Not only does this technology deliver the ultimate in material protection, but it also demonstrates your commitment to upholding the highest standards in cleanliness and sustainability. By utilizing products and surfaces that last longer and require less harsh cleaning chemicals, you can reduce your environmental footprint and show your commitment to creating a more sustainable future.
