ASTM E3218-19

5.1 The test method was designed to determine the LR in spores on a hard, non-porous surface after exposure to a test chemical in a closed system.

5.2 Each test includes three control carriers (exposed to phosphate buffered saline with Tween-80), three test system control carriers (exposed to 1500 ± 150 ppm sodium hypochlorite), and ten treated carriers (per test chemical/concentration/contact time combination).

1.1 This test method covers a standardized approach to quantitatively determine the effectiveness of antimicrobial chemicals in treating hard, non-porous surfaces contaminated with spores of C. difficile (ATCC 43598) grown in accordance with Practice E2839.

1.2 This test method is based on principles established for Test Method E2197 and an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Guidance Document.2

1.3 Training in basic microbiology and aseptic technique are required to perform this assay.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.