EN 13697: Chemical disinfectants and antiseptics – Quantitative non-porous surface test for bactericidal or fungicidal activity of chemical disinfectants
The purpose of the EN 13697 method is to establish the bactericidal, fungicidal or even yeasticidal activity exhibited by chemical disinfectants or antiseptics intended for food, industrial, domestic and institutional applications. This antimicrobial test is designed for products that form a homogeneous and stable solution (when diluted with hard water or with water for RTU products) and are intended for non-porous surfaces.
The standard testing conditions are meant to simulate actual conditions for the implementation of the product in commercial use. Variables such as contact time(s), temperature, or surface organisms are intended to reflect those generally encountered in practical circumstances.
Additionally, the EN 13697 method allows for introduction of interfering substance which can influence disinfectant action.
The EN 13697 antimicrobial test is applicable for determination of bactericidal activity on non-porous surfaces without mechanical action, yeasticidal activity on non-porous surfaces without mechanical action, and fungicidal activity on non-porous surfaces without mechanical action. Each of these areas of application includes various test species.
For bactericides:
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Escherichia coli
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
For fungicides and yeasticides:
- Candida albicans
- Aspergillus brasiliensis
A bacterial or fungi suspension is inoculated and dried up on the surface of a stainless steel coupon. The product is then applied to the surface of the dried film as directed by the label and sustained at a fixed temperature for a specified period of time. The surface is then transferred to a previously validated medium in order to neutralize the disinfectant and proceed with a quantitative determination of surviving organisms recovered.
At Situ Biosciences, we offer various quantitative antimicrobial tests including EN 1276, EN 13727, and EN 14776.
Feel free to contact info@situtest.com or (847) 483-9950 for more information on antimicrobial testing and the EN 13697 method.