Let’s face it, we are more vulnerable to microbial infections when we are not adhering to good hygiene practices. In order to avoid microbial infections and diseases, disinfectants are regarded as the most common approach in medical, industrial, and residential settings. Considering the unknown infectious disease threats, it is imperative to understand and validate the strength of disinfectant products against a panel of microorganisms.
The European Standard (EN) specifies test methods to evaluate the efficacy of disinfectant products. In simple terms, EN certified products indicate that tested hygiene products meet compliances set by EN standards.
BS EN 1276 and BS EN 14476 are both widely accepted European standards for chemical disinfectant and antiseptic products.
Here, we will discuss the importance of both EN 1276 and EN 14476 standards, and explain how they differ from each other.
Importance of EN 1276 Standard
EN 1276 is a quantitative suspension test that determines bactericidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics.
Test is applicable to disinfectant products used in food, industrial, domestic and institutional areas excluding areas/conditions where disinfection is medically indicated.
EN 1276 certified cleaning products show bactericidal activity against bacteria such as MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli, and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa.
For effective disinfection in catering and hospitality environments, it is highly recommended by Food Standards Agency to confirm that disinfectant products meet BS EN 1276 or BS EN 13697 standards.
Importance of EN 14476 Standard
EN 14476 (phase 2, step 1) is a quantitative suspension test that assesses the virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics.
Standard is applicable to areas and situations where disinfection is medically indicated.
Products certified to EN 14476 indicate that antiviral agents present in disinfectant are effective to kill significant viral pathogens like norovirus, poliovirus, adenovirus, and influenza.
Also Read: EN 14476 Test Method Explained
The Difference
The major difference between BS EN 1276 and BS EN 14476 is the type of microorganisms they act upon and their area of application. So, products labeled with EN 1276 certified are meant to be bactericidal in action and can be used for disinfection in hospitality and catering areas. While EN 14476 certified products possess virucidal action and are indicated to be used in medial areas.
We are here to help you find that out and to provide recommendations of disinfectant efficacy testing based on your product type. In disinfectant testing portfolio, EN 14476, EN 1276, and EN 16777 are the most frequently requested tests at MIS.
We have incorporated most modern techniques and technology in our testing labs that provide reproducible, easy-to-evaluate results.
The offered services are maintained at highest standards of quality and executed within a scheduled time-frame.
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