European Norms (EN)

Methods for determining the efficacy that apply to all European countries and – following a public standardisation process – are specified by the Technical Committee within CEN. In Germany, each approved European Norm is published as DIN-EN standard.

Understanding disinfectant efficacy can be challenging, especially when different standards, spectra of activity, and contact times come into play. Our new HARTMANN SCIENCE CENTER whitepaper provides a practical overview of the European standards used to evaluate disinfectants and explains how efficacy claims are determined. It covers the testing framework defined by EN 14885 and key standards for hand and surface disinfection. It also explains all relevant spectra of activity and shows how efficacy testing determines the contact times stated on disinfectant products.

In hygiene, the efficacy of disinfectants is determined in accordance with uniform European microbiological test standards as well. In this regard, DIN EN 1500: 1997-10 "Chemical disinfectants and antiseptics - Hygienic handrub - Test method and requirements (phase 2/step 2)" and DIN EN 12791: 2005-10 "Chemical disinfectants and antiseptics - Surgical hand disinfection - Test method and requirements (phase 2/step 2)" are the most important European standards. Both practical methods are for testing the bactericidal activity.