HPL Blue Kubi: Advanced Protocol for Cleaning and Sanitizing High Traffic Restrooms

In the context of high-flow service areas – such as Autogrills along the main roads – the efficiency of cleaning operations and the hygienic-sanitary seal of the sanitary facilities play a crucial role both for user satisfaction and for compliance with current regulations. The Kubi modular walls in HPL Blue by PorteItaliane.com, thanks to their high-pressure stratified composition and selected materials, offer an ideal base for an environment resistant to humidity, wear and chemical aggression.

This white paper aims to provide an in-depth technical-scientific analysis of the physical-chemical characteristics of the Blue Kubi HPL panel, illustrating its mechanical and thermal behavior, as well as the degree of impermeability and hygiene offered by the melamine finish. Starting from the specific European and international reference regulations (CE 852/2004, EN ISO 22196, EN 16777, UNI EN 15883) , detailed operating protocols for cleaning and sanitization will then be outlined, including frequency schemes (daily, weekly, monthly) and “clean-in-place” procedures with optimal quantities, contact times and rubbing pressures.

Particular attention is paid to the chemistry of detergents: the pH-dependent compatibility of neutral, alkaline, alcoholic and peroxide products will be compared with the requirements of surface integrity and material safety. Finally, control tools (swab test, rapid antibacterial activity, mechanical inspections) and recommendations for waste management and environmental sustainability will be proposed. We will conclude by suggesting best practices for staff training and the implementation of operational checklists, so that each maintenance intervention not only preserves the performance of Blue Kubi HPL walls, but also optimizes costs, times and regulatory compliance.

White Paper: Technical Optimization of Maintenance of Modular Walls Kubi in HPL Blue for Autogrill

1. Physico-chemical properties of HPL Blue Kubi

Kubi walls in HPL Blue (High Pressure Laminate) are made of layers of kraft paper impregnated with phenolic resins, superimposed on decorative layers of melamine resin, then hot pressed (150–160 °C) at 6–8 MPa. The result is a panel

• Standard thickness : 12–14 mm
• Density : 1.3 g/cm³
• Mechanical resistance : bending ≥ 25 MPa, impact resistance ≥ 4 kJ/m² (EN 438-2)
• Thermal resistance : operation from –20 °C to +90 °C without deformation
• Surface : smooth, low friction coefficient (0.4 μ), anti-scratch (class 3, EN 438-2)
• Water absorption : ≤ 0.5% in 24 h immersion (EN ISO 2896)

These features ensure excellent durability in humid environments, resistance to shock loads and basic hygiene, as the internal honeycomb structure is sealed and the surface is non-porous.

2. Reference regulations and sanitation protocols

2.1 European standards and guidelines

• Regulation (EC) No 852/2004 – health and hygiene requirements for public reception facilities
• EN ISO 22196 – Measurement of antibacterial activity on surfaces of plastics and other non-porous materials
• EN 16777/EN 13697 – Surface efficacy tests of biocides
• UNI EN 15883 – washing and sanitization in mechanized washing plants

2.2 Practical objectives

1. Reduce microbial load to < 5 CFU/cm² on high-touch surfaces (handles, hooks, locks).
2. Remove biofilm and organic deposits that act as a barrier to disinfectants.
3. Ensure chemical compatibility to avoid deterioration of resins and dyes.

3. Detergent chemistry and compatibility with HPL

Product Category	Typical pH	Active ingredient	Compatibility with HPL Blue Kubi
Neutral	7–9	Non-ionic surfactants	Excellent: no effect on surface
Light alkalines	10–11	Sodium hydroxide 1–3 %	Good: Removes stubborn organic dirt
Sanitizing alcohol	70–90% IPA	Isopropanol or ethanol	Excellent: fast evaporation, leaves no residue
Peroxides	3–6 % H₂O₂	Hydrogen peroxide	Excellent: safe oxidizing action
Light acid descalers	pH 2–3	Citric acid, lactic	Acceptable if used locally, short contact

Note: Avoid products with organic solvents (acetone, xylene), strong acids (pH < 1), concentrated alkalis (> 15% NaOH) and powder detergents that generate abrasiveness.

4. Detailed cleaning and sanitization protocol

4.1 Frequency and Responsibility

Frequency	Actor	Activity
Continuous	Operator	Visual inspection of the condition of the walls and spot cleaning of impacts/splash
Daily	Cleaning lady	Complete cleaning + sanitization of surfaces
Weekly	Responsible	Mechanical integrity check, gasket check
Monthly	Specialized technician	Antibacterial activity test (swab test) and extraordinary maintenance

4.2 Daily procedure (“clean-in-place” session)

1. PPE preparation
• Nitrile gloves, splash goggles, FFP2 mask if using sprays.
2. Pre-cleansing
• Mechanical removal of dust and debris with soft brush.
• Vacuuming of floor areas to avoid release of particles.
3. Application of neutral detergent
• Spray 20–30 ml/m² of neutral detergent (pH 7–9), leave to act for 2 min.
• Rub with a short-fibre microfibre cloth, maintaining pressure of 0.5 kg/cm².
4. Rinse
• Clean damp microfiber cloth, one step to remove residue.
5. Disinfection
• Spray 70% isopropyl alcohol or 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Allow to evaporate in the air; do not rinse.
6. Drying and control
• Dry microfiber cloth, visually check for streaks.
• Marking in the cleaning register (time, operator, products used).

4.3 Thorough weekly maintenance

• Light alkaline detergent (10% NaOH): use a soft sponge, act for max 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
• Check joints and fixings : tighten M6 and M8 screws to a torque of 8–10 Nm; check for galvanic corrosion.
• Lubrication of hinges/latches : apply NSF H1 certified silicone spray, remove excess.

4.4 Monthly inspection and effectiveness test

1. Swab test EN ISO 18593
• Take samples from critical areas (external handle, door edge).
• CFU count in laboratory; target < 5 CFU/cm².
2. On-site antibacterial activity verification (EN ISO 22196)
• Use of rapid kits to evaluate 99.9% logarithmic reduction in 24 h.
3. Checking the anti-humidity gaskets
• Replacing EPDM gasket if deformed or compromised.
4. Technical report
• Draft document with test results, recommendations and intervention plan.

5. Waste management and environmental impact

• Detergents : choose biodegradable formulations with BOD₅ > 60%.
• Disposal of rinse water : collect it through resin grids and convey it to waste water treatment.
• HPL RECYCLING : at the end of their useful life (> 30 years), the panels can be sent for mechanical recycling (crushing and use in underlayment or plastic compounds).

6. Training and safety procedures

1. Operating manual : internal document with HPL technical data sheets and SDS (safety data sheets) of the detergents.
2. Periodic briefings : quarterly update sessions on good practices and use of PPE.
3. Inspection checklist : daily and weekly checklist, filled out on site and signed by the operator.
4. Emergency plan : procedures in case of accidental chemical spills, with wash-down stations and absorbents.

7. Conclusions and application tips

By adopting a five-level cleaning protocol (continuous, daily, weekly, monthly, inspection) and using only compatible chemical products, Kubi modular walls in HPL Blue will maintain their mechanical, aesthetic and hygienic performances unaltered over time. A structured and documented plan not only ensures maximum sanitization efficiency, but also compliance with European regulations, reduction of operating costs and environmental protection.

To learn more about the technical features, request technical sheets or a personalized quote, visit the official page:
https://www.porteitaliane.com/collections/porte-tecniche/products/pareti-modulari-kubi-in-hpl-blue

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