High standards of safety and hygiene are always crucial in protecting passengers and people in both the aviation and travel industries. Current world health concerns have raised the need for this practice. Central to upholding such high standards is the European standard, EN 1040, which specifies the means for checking the bactericidal efficacy of chemical disinfectants. This article elaborates on how EN 1040 has been important in making the airlines and travel safety protocols thorough to ensure efficient microbial control which makes the travel environment safer.
Importance in the aviation industry
EN 1040 allows standardized testing for the activity of disinfectant products for killing bacteria. It thereby provides an appropriate framework that ensures all disinfectants applied in diverse settings, including airlines, are used with a maximum level of bactericidal activity.
CSN EN 1040’s impact on airline and travel safety protocols
Cleaning and disinfection procedures
The adoption of EN 1040 in safety protocols for airlines has strengthened the standard of cleaning and disinfection. Airlines are therefore required to use products that have been proven to effectively neutralize pathogens to standards set by EN 1040.
Training and compliance
Airlines need to ensure that their staff is competent in the use of EN1040 certified disinfectants, including the right concentration, the method of use, and the contact times required to achieve optimal results.
Enhancing passenger safety
In-flight sanitation measures
EN 1040 influences in-flight sanitation too: airlines disinfect regularly all surfaces commonly touched by the passengers and cabin crew with authorized chemicals intended for said task, including tray tables, armrests, and restroom facilities.
Pre-boarding and post-flight cleaning
Pre-boarding and post-flight cleaning routines have been amped up with screening processes that have been in place. Nowadays, airlines are more concerned that the cabin environment is sanitized using approved and effective products.
Regulatory compliance and certifications
Aviation authority guidelines
The EN 1040 standards should be made a part of the safety and hygiene policies followed by civil aviation authorities. The hygiene standards should be considered basic prerequisites for a license or certificate to be issued, which in turn allows operations.
Continuous monitoring and audits
Airlines must be re-audited at agreed time periods to ensure that they continue to meet the safety requirements which include the use of EN 1040 certified disinfectants. Audits can also be done to check how efficient the cleaning chemicals are and the procedures used, for adherence to the required disinfection criteria.
Traveler confidence and industry reputation
Boosting traveler confidence
Use of EN 1040 certified products may facilitate the trust of travelers, as passengers are more assured of their safety based on hygiene and sanitation. This is very important in times of health crises, where the confidence of travelers is significantly impacted.
Impact on industry reputation
It is probable that airlines adhering strictly to safety standards will often create a reputation for safety and cleanliness. This puts them in a better position to retain customers and, further, become appealing to new customers who always prioritize safety and health.
How can MIS help?
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland, we understand the critical importance of safety and hygiene in the airline and travel industry. Our specialized microbiologists employ rigorous EN 1040 testing protocols to ensure that your products meet the highest bactericidal standards. With our cutting-edge laboratory facility and commitment to excellence, we provide the reliable results needed to uphold and surpass industry safety standards.
For a consultation on how our testing services can help elevate your airline’s safety protocols or to receive a detailed quote, please reach out to our expert team today.
