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EN 1276: 2019
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BS EN 1276: 2019 - Quantitative Suspension Test for the Evaluation of Bactericidal Activity of Chemical Disinfectant
EN 1276 is a phase 2, step 1 suspension test for assessing the bactericidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics.
This antibacterial disinfectant test applies to various disinfectant products, including surface disinfectants, hand sanitizers, food industry disinfectants, household cleaners, and industrial cleaning agents.
- Enterococcus hirae
- Escherichia coli
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Staphylococcus aureus
- E. faecium
- The test bacterial suspension is mixed with the disinfectant and incubated for the recommended contact time. The mixture is neutralized, plated on agar, and incubated for 20–24 hours. The CFU reduction is calculated to evaluate efficacy.
- Helps meet national and international regulatory standards.
- Provides scientifically backed proof of product efficacy.
- ≥ 5-log reduction for disinfectants.
- ≥ 3-log reduction for handwashes.
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Abstract
EN 1276 is a phase 2 step 1 suspension test that specifies the criteria for the assessment of the bactericidal activity of chemical disinfectants and antiseptics. This antibacterial disinfectant test assures that all products used within the food, industrial, domestic, or institutional environment are effective in reducing bacterial counts or completely eliminating them. The standard is an essential tool for manufacturers to validate the efficacy of their products and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Scope of Products to be tested with EN 1276
EN 1276 test covers disinfectant products used in food, industrial, domestic, and institutional settings, excluding cases where disinfection is medically indicated and products intended for use on living tissues except for those used for hand hygiene in specified settings.
EN 1276 test conditions
The test conditions specified by the standard are designed to closely simulate practical use conditions to ensure reliability in results. Some important parameters are:
- Test organisms: The bactericidal activity of the product is tested using the following strains: Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538P), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352), Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541), MRSA (ATCC-33591), Salmonella enterica (ATCC-10708).
- Contact time: The contact time ranges from 1 minute to 60 minutes, depending upon product use and manufacturer’s instructions.
- Test temperature: Test temperature ranges between 4°C – 40°C.
Test requirements for EN 1276
The test requirements ensure that the disinfectant meets a minimum level of bactericidal activity:
- Interfering substance: The test may include the addition of substances like bovine albumin as an interfering substance. This allows to assess whether the disinfectant is effective in the presence of organic material. (Clean condition: 0.3g/l of Bovine Serum Albumin and Dirty condition: 3g/l of Bovine Serum Albumin)
- Sample preparation: The disinfectants are tested either as they are or in their diluted form, depending on their intended use. The products should be prepared as mentioned on the product label or as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Log reduction
Products must demonstrate a 5-log reduction to pass the test, except in the case of handwashes, where a log reduction of at least 3 would suffice.
Procedure for EN 1276 test method
This test procedure consists of the following steps:
- The test bacterial suspension containing an interfering substance is mixed with the product sample.
- The suspension is incubated at a set temperature for a contact time as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Aliquots of the sample are taken at the end of the contact time and are immediately neutralized by a neutralizing solution to inhibit its bactericidal activity.
- After 5 minutes of neutralization, 1 ml of the test mixture is plated on Tryptone Soya Agar.
- Plates are incubated for 20 – 24 hrs and the reduction in CFU (colony forming units) is calculated.
Importance of EN 1276 standard
Antibacterial disinfectant tests are of paramount importance to both public safety and product reliability. Testing disinfectants using this standard guarantees consumers that these products can significantly reduce harmful bacteria and prevent the spread of infections in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. The standard thus ensures that the products work as claimed and give the user confidence in their safety and efficacy.
Why Choose Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS)
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we understand the importance of reliable and effective disinfection. Our disinfectant testing laboratory is designed to help manufacturers validate the bactericidal activity of their products, ensuring compliance and building consumer trust.
With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced staff, we offer comprehensive disinfectant efficacy testing services that adhere to the highest industry standards. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your testing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
DR. Martinoz Scholtz
EN-1276 is a quantitative suspension test for the evaluation of bactericidal activity of disinfectants or antiseptics.
This test method is applicable for chemical disinfectant and antiseptic products such as handrubs and handwashes that have different applications in industrial, institutional areas, etc.
The test method typically needs 4-5 days to complete.
At MIS, we perform this test using Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus hirae, Enterococcus faecium, Salmonella typhimurium, Lactobacillus brevis, Enterobacter cloacae. Additional strains can be added on request.
The test ensures that chemical disinfectants and antiseptics are effective against common bacteria, providing a standardized way to validate their bactericidal activity. This is crucial for product safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer trust.
To pass the test, a disinfectant must demonstrate a minimum 5-log reduction, meaning it reduces the bacterial population by 99.999%.
The test helps ensure that disinfectant products used in food processing and preparation units are effective at controlling bacteria growth that might cause foodborne infections.
Yes, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be tested using this standard.
Products should be retested periodically when there are changes in the formulation or production processes or if there are new regulatory requirements.
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