The invention provides a system and method for self-cleaning a door handle (4) by utilizing the kinetic energy of opening a door (1). A cable (3), for example a multi-link chain, fixed to the door frame (2) and a gear assembly (10, 11, 12) is provided such that linear displacement of said cable is converted to potential energy in response to movement of said door. The invention provides a means for rotating a drive roller (5) to co-operate with the door handle to clean said door handle, only when the door handle is released and the door is closing or closed. The potential energy provides the energy to enable the rotation of the drive roller.