Antimicrobial Surface Testing Services

With thorough testing, we make sure your products meet the highest industry standards.

Antimicrobial Surface Tests – An Ultimate Guide

Antimicrobial surface testing involves using standard methods to evaluate the efficacy of various hard surfaces in preventing microbial growth. The demand for antimicrobial hard surfaces has drastically increased considering the growing necessity to control infectious diseases. Use of antimicrobial surfaces in door handles, countertops, medical equipment, and handrails is becoming an integral component of public health measures. However, such antimicrobial-treated surfaces need to undergo tests that prove their antimicrobial activity. Proper testing is important in the manufacture of such products to ensure that products comply with industry standards and also meet consumer expectations.

Common antimicrobial hard surface testing methods

Antimicrobial surface tests need to be strategically approached to ensure consistency, accuracy, and reliability in results. At MIS, we test the antimicrobial activity of hard surfaces according to the following international standards:

  • ASTM E2180 is a standard test procedure for determining the antimicrobial activity of plastics or other non-porous surfaces with an antimicrobial agent.
  • ISO 22196 is a quantitative test intended to determine bacterial colony reduction on surfaces that have been subjected to antimicrobial treatment. This test is particularly applicable for surfaces that are used in healthcare facilities and food-contact materials.
  • JIS Z 2801 is the test method for evaluating the antimicrobial activity of coatings, films, and other non-porous products.
  • EN 13697 is the European standard for the evaluation of bactericidal and fungicidal activities of disinfectants used for disinfecting hard surfaces.
  • ASTM D3273 test method is used to measure the resistance of surfaces to mold growth and is highly applicable for building products and coatings.

  • ASTM E3031 is used to determine the antimicrobial activity level of materials and surfaces, which indicates the effectiveness of the antimicrobial treatment.

  • ISO 21702 tests for virucidal activity on non-porous surfaces.
     
  • ASTM E2315 is a quantitative test method that establishes the antimicrobial effectiveness of liquid or solid materials against various microorganisms.

  • ASTM G21 tests the resistance of synthetic polymeric materials to fungi growth.

  • ASTM G29 evaluates the antimicrobial activity of materials that prevent algal colonization, ensuring that treated surfaces do not support algae.

  • EN 13697 specifies bactericidal and fungicidal activities of disinfectants used in industrial, agricultural, food processing, and domestic areas.

  • EN 16438 determines the fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants used in veterinary areas against non-porous surfaces without mechanical action.

  • ASTM E1053 is a test method to determine the virucidal effectiveness of antimicrobial agents on inanimate surfaces.

  • EN 17422 tests veterinary test disinfectants intended to reduce microbial contamination.

  • EN 14349 tests bactericidal action of disinfectants and antiseptics in veterinary areas, for effective microbial reduction on surfaces.

Benefits of antimicrobial hard surface testing services

There are several advantages of performing antimicrobial surface tests, especially in areas where hygiene and safety are paramount. Here are some key benefits:

Building consumer confidence

Testing verifies the claims made by manufacturers and this helps build consumer confidence and strengthens brand reputation.

Regulatory compliance

Many regulatory agencies require compliance with specific standards for antimicrobial efficacy. Manufacturing companies can meet these given regulations and industry guidelines through standard antimicrobial surface tests.

Ensuring product efficacy

Antimicrobial hard surface tests ensure that treated surfaces reduce or eliminate harmful microorganisms effectively. This is particularly important for healthcare, food-processing products, and other public establishments where the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents has a direct impact on health and safety.

Product improvement and innovation

Antimicrobial hard surface tests provide manufacturers with valuable insights which manufacturers can use to refine formulations, improve application techniques, and innovate to create more effective products.

Reducing infection risks

Antimicrobial surface tests establish the efficacy of a product. Such tested products may, therefore, be used as a strategic approach in the prevention of infection transmission, especially in healthcare settings.

Customized testing services for manufacturers

Microbe Investigations Switzerland offers tailored antimicrobial surface tests to suit the specific product requirements of manufacturers. We develop testing protocols based on the product characteristics and intended use. These customized test protocols are devised to comply with international standards to ensure that the results are relevant and accurate. Our expert consultation and accelerated testing options support manufacturers in validating product claims efficiently, bringing effective solutions to market faster.

Conclusion & summary

Microbe Investigations Switzerland provides comprehensive antimicrobial surface testing services. These services are designed to meet the specific requirements of manufacturers. Our experienced team of microbiologists is at your disposal to guide you through the testing process ensuring that your products meet their intended claims and comply with industry regulations.

For further details about our antimicrobial surface testing services, reach out to us today and let us assist you in launching safer, more effective products.

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Microbe Investigations Switzerland