Disinfectant testing

There are three primary types of testing for disinfectants. Phase one is conducted on a typical surface. The second phase evaluates the chemical disinfectants in more specific settings. Each type is divided into two phases, each is a test that tests a different quality of the disinfectant's effectiveness. In the second phase you will encounter dirty conditions. The first test is conducted prior to Phase 2. It is important to recognize that those results of the first test may not be representative of the results of the second phase.

EN1276

The EPA has released a draft guidance document addressing these modifications. The document contains changes to the testing methods along with new labeling guidelines and test guidelines. The draft document on guidance was questioned by experts in infection prevention, they argued against the inclusion of language pertaining to objects that are highly touchable. Therefore, the testing methods are required to be revised. These modifications will require further studies and refinements to meet expectations of users of disinfectants.

EN14476

The ASTM testing E2967-15 tests the antimicrobial properties of disinfectant wipes. It uses a multi-stage protocol devised by Williams et al., that is more complicated than the previous protocol. Both protocols require an additional piece of equipment. The major differences are in the kind of organisms to be tested. Apart from determining the effectiveness of the antimicrobial wipes used, tests examine the compatibility between components in the solution and wipe material.

EN1650

Different methods are employed for measuring the antimicrobial abilities of disinfectants. Relevant and accurate information is essential to aid users in making the right choice for their application. However, if proper guidelines follow, testing for disinfectants could lead to misinformation. Therefore, proper methods selection and use is essential. The key to success is to pick the most effective method for the job. How do you choose the right method?

EN17272

The DVG publishes guidelines and regulations for the testing of disinfectants. The guidelines vary by sector but generally mandate the using of three tiers of tests: quantitative suspension tests test on the surface and crucial test for the surface of the material. While new security threats become discovered that require more advanced disinfectant test methods are being developed. These include bioreactors and ongoing visualization studies. The DVG provides a complete guideline for disinfectants. The DVG has them available on this site.

Effective disinfectants must be tested to ensure they are effective in controlling the growth of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms. They should be tested to determine their biocidal and working levels. The tests should be reliable and the results should be correlative to expected applications. There are numerous obstacles as well as limitations to disinfectants including the presence of organic soil, biofilm, and other neutralizing substances. In addition, disinfectant efficacy is contingent on the effectiveness of pre-cleaning and the conditions of use.

In addition to clinical applications, disinfectant-impregnated wipes (DIWs) are also used in various settings. The use of these wipes within hospitals has risen steadily because of their simple implementation and their reliability. However, the use of such wipes has also been questioned, with a few researchers calling for further studies regarding DIWs for their disinfection efficiency. What are the most efficient methods of disinfectant testing on wipes?

The tests for disinfectants have to take into account the thickness of the wipe as well as its surface and the risk of cross-contamination. This EN1276 is why an international method is needed to be developed. Additionally, an international approach is necessary for the evaluating of DIWs. The standards used for testing should be realistic and reflect the use of different surfaces as well as cross-contamination within clinical environments. These wipes should be tested using these tests and standardized to produce the best results.

The results from the tests should provide important information regarding the effectiveness of the disinfectant. For instance, the effectiveness of quaternary ammonium disinfectants in the hospital environment is extremely essential, since they can reduce the rates of hospital-acquired infections. Additionally, the use of disinfectant clothes in a hospital environment decreases the chance of getting hospital-acquired infections. They can also be employed to help the healthcare industry decide which products would be best suited for hospital-based care.