EN 14476 Test

Products such as hygienic hand rubs, hand washes, textile disinfectants, surface disinfectants, and instrument disinfectants can be tested with EN 14476.

Typically, the test takes 2 to 4 weeks to complete, depending on the number of viruses tested.

As per this standard, a limited spectrum test is performed with Adenovirus and Murine norovirus. A full spectrum test includes the Poliovirus in addition to the limited spectrum viruses. For testing against enveloped viruses, the use of Vaccinia virus is recommended. This standard also allows for testing with a virus of the product manufacturer’s choice like SARS CoV-2, Beta Coronavirus (OC-43), Human Coronavirus (229E), Influenza A (H1N1) or Influenza A (H3N2), etc.

Strict safety measures include the use of biosafety cabinets and PPE, proper disposal of biohazard waste, and adherence to GLP guidelines.

Common challenges faced during this test include maintaining a consistent virus titer for comparative studies, avoiding any risk of contamination between the samples, maintaining the stability of the virus during the testing process, and accurately measuring the reduction of viral activity. In addition, differences in product formulations create variabilities in outcomes therefore, care must be taken during preparation and standardization.

The results of this test can significantly improve the marketability of your product based on the proof of antiviral effectiveness. This certification guarantees users and regulatory authorities that the product meets high European standards for disinfectants, thereby differentiating the product from competitors and boosting consumer confidence.

This standard is a European test method that evaluates the virucidal activity of chemical disinfectants. In comparison, US regulations, such as those enforced by both EPA and FDA, include similar efficacy testing that would apply different methods and possibly different viruses for testing. In either case, the goal is to ensure that a product will be effective against viral pathogens, although regulatory requirements and accepted test protocols differ.

The results obtained from this test will be useful in highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of your products. This information can be used to enhance your formulation to improve the efficacy of the product. Also, conducting these tests ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

This test validates the hand sanitizers by measuring the reduction in viral load on the skin or another surface. In this test, the test virus and the surface contaminated with it are treated with a sanitizer, and the reduction in viral infectivity is determined. A product exhibiting at least 4 log reduction in viral activity as per the requirements of the standard is considered to be effective.

The key differences between EN 14476 and other assays for viral efficacy are mainly associated with specific protocols, viruses tested, and applied performance criteria. Other assays from organizations like the US EPA will have different requirements and test methods. Apart from that, specific conditions of the tests and log reduction criteria under EN 14476 are different from those in other standards, thus making this assay a unique antiviral efficacy assessment tool.