ASTM E2613

Test Method for Determining Fungus-Eliminating Effectiveness of Hygienic Handwash and Handrub Agents Using Fingerpads of Adults

Hassle-free testing experience

Need to get a product tested? No worries! To and fro logistics are on us; we collect your products, test them and, deliver them back to you.

Related tests for you

Test method for evaluation of hygienic handwash and handrub formulations for virus-eliminating activity using the entire hand

Evaluation of basic fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants and antiseptics

Evaluation of fungicidal or yeasticidal activity of disinfectants used in the medical area

Test Method for Evaluating Relative Effectiveness of Antimicrobial Handwashing Formulations using the Palmar Surface and Mechanical Hand Sampling

Quick understanding of the test

ASTM E2613 - Test Method for Determining Fungus-Eliminating Effectiveness of Hygienic Handwash and Handrub Agents Using Fingerpads of Adults

The test is used to evaluate the effectiveness of hygienic handwash and hand rub agents in eliminating fungal contamination on adult fingerpads.

Application

Applicable to products such as hygienic handwashes and hand scrubs.
  • A known volume of fungal suspension is applied to demarcated fingerpads and allowed to dry.
  • The contaminated hands are exposed to the test agent  and control for a specified duration.
  • Remaining organisms on the fingerpads are eluted and analysed to determine the  fungal colony-forming units (CFU).
  • Reductions in CFU are compared between the control and test agent.

Turnaround Time

It typically takes 14 – 28 days.

Results are evaluated by measuring the logโ‚โ‚€ reduction in fungal CFU on fingerpads after treatment with the test agent compared to a control.

Passing criteria

The product must demonstrate at least a 4-logโ‚โ‚€ reduction in the viability titer of the test organism under the specific test conditions.

Do you have a product that needs testing?

Get a quote from our experts today!

Abstract

ASTM E2613 provides a test method and essential passing criteria to assess the fungus-eliminating effectiveness of hygienic handwash and handrub formulations. The method simulates fungal contamination by applying fungal suspensions to fingertips. It evaluates the reduction in fungal levels through handwashing or friction techniques in adult volunteers.

ASTM E2613 Test Conditions and Requirements

ASTM E2613 Test Methodology

The steps involved are as follows:-

  1. Preparation of Subjects: Subjects are prepared to ensure their hands are free from any antimicrobial substances. This includes providing them with non-antimicrobial personal care products during the study period.
  2. Application of Fungal Suspension: A well-demarcated area on the fingerpads is treated with a small volume of fungal suspension and is allowed to dry, simulating transient fungal contamination likely to occur in real life.
  3. Exposure to Test Agent:  After drying the fungal suspension, expose the contaminated area to a test agent or control solution for a specified time.
  4. Elution and Counting: The fingerpads were washed after treatment, and fungi remaining in the fingerpads were recovered using an eluent. Viable fungal cells were enumerated using CFU assays.
  5. Results: The fungal count reduction is calculated as the difference in CFU counts before and after treatment. This provides a quantitative estimation of test product effectiveness.

Importance of ASTM E2613 Test

Fungi are an often-overlooked but significant threat to human health. Unlike bacteria and viruses, many fungal species can survive on human skin and surfaces for extended periods, increasing the risk of infections. While antibacterial and antiviral claims are common, many hygiene products overlook fungi, despite their ability to persist and spread. ASTM E2613 bridges this gap by providing a standardized, real-world method to prove that hygienic handwash and handrub products are effective at removing transient fungi from the skin.

By validating fungus-eliminating performance under ASTM E2613, manufacturers demonstrate that their everyday hand hygiene solutions truly deliver on safety and cleanliness, building trust with regulatory bodies, clients, and end users.

At Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we deliver precise, reliable ASTM E2613 testing backed by expert microbiologists and state-of-the-art facilities. Whether youโ€™re developing a new hand hygiene product or validating existing formulations, we help you meet global standards for antifungal performance, giving your brand scientific credibility.

Ready to validate your productโ€™s antifungal claims?

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive testing and validation services!

Frequently Asked Questions

DR. Martinoz Scholtz

MIS Labs
1. What is the ASTM E2613 test?

The ASTM E2613 test is a standardized procedure to assess the efficacy of hygienic handwash and hand rub agents against fungal contamination. It provides a standardized approach to measure and compare the fungus-reducing efficacy of hand hygiene products.

2. What are the Products that can be tested with the ASTM E2613 test?

Hygienic handwashes and hand rubs designed to specifically reduce fungal contamination on the skin can be evaluated based on ASTM E2613.

3. What is the Turnaround Time for the ASTM E2613 test?

The ASTM E2613 test period is usually between 14 – 28 days.

4. On how many microbial strains can your ASTM E2613 testing lab perform tests on?

Candida albicans ,Aspergillus niger.

Meet the best of the blend of
R&D, Efficacy Testing,
Innovation and Passionate
Experts at MIS.

Send us your sample and experience High quality Swiss standards, Industry leading turnaround times, and affordable prices.