The procedure may be used to test the effectiveness of antimicrobial handwashing agents. The test formulations may be designed for frequent use to reduce the transient bacterial flora on hands.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the effectiveness of antimicrobial handwashing agents for the reduction of transient microbial flora when used in a handwashing procedure.

1.2 A knowledge of microbiological techniques is required for these procedures.

1.3 In this test method, metric units are used for all applications, except for distance in which case inches are used and metric units follow in parentheses.

1.4 This test method may be used to evaluate topical antimicrobial handwash formulations.

1.5 Performance of this procedure requires the knowledge of regulations pertaining to the protection of human subjects.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For more specific precautionary statements see .

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

Index Terms

antimicrobial; contaminant; efficacy; handwash; healthcare; marker organism; simulant;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 71.100.40 (Surface active agents)

Citing ASTM Standards

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