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Microbiological Testing/
EN 13697 Quantitative Surface Testing for Microbial ReductionComprehensive Guide to EN 13697 Quantitative Surface Testing for Microbial Reduction Laboratory Testing Service
Standard-Related Information
EN 13697 is a European Standard that specifies the requirements for quantitative surface testing of microbial reduction on non-porous surfaces. The standard provides a framework for evaluating the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments or products, ensuring their ability to reduce microbial populations on surfaces.
The standard is based on the principles outlined in ISO 846 (Plastics Evaluation of the effects of microorganisms) and ASTM E2197-13 (Standard Practice for Determining the Effects of Microorganisms on Materials).
EN 13697 has undergone revisions over the years, with significant updates in 2018. The latest version is EN 13697:2018A1:2020.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The standard is developed by CEN (European Committee for Standardization) and is published under the auspices of ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Compliance with this standard is mandatory in many countries, particularly in industries where surface cleanliness is critical to human health or safety.
Regulatory authorities require manufacturers of antimicrobial products to demonstrate their efficacy using standardized testing methods. EN 13697 provides a widely accepted and validated protocol for evaluating microbial reduction on non-porous surfaces.
International and National Standards
EN 13697 has been adopted as an International Standard by ISO (ISO 21789) and is equivalent to ASTM E2197-13 in the United States.
National standards that reference EN 13697 include:
Standard Development Organizations
CEN and ISO are the primary standard development organizations responsible for EN 13697.
Evolution of Standards
EN 13697 has undergone significant updates, addressing the following areas:
Standard Numbers and Scope
The standard numbers and scope for EN 13697 are as follows:
Compliance Requirements
Manufacturers of antimicrobial products must demonstrate compliance with EN 13697 to ensure their products meet regulatory requirements. Compliance is typically verified through laboratory testing and certification.
Compliance with EN 13697 provides a competitive advantage, as it demonstrates the products efficacy in reducing microbial populations on surfaces.
Standard Requirements and Needs
Why is this test needed?
This specific test is required due to the increasing awareness of surface cleanliness and its impact on human health. The test evaluates the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments or products, ensuring their ability to reduce microbial populations on surfaces.
Business and Technical Reasons
Conducting EN 13697 quantitative surface testing for microbial reduction provides several business and technical reasons:
Consequences of Not Performing this Test
Failure to perform EN 13697 testing may result in: