Evans Vanodine sponsored the International Biodeterioration and Bidegradation Society Disinfection and Decontamination Conference on the 28 and 29 September at the University of Central Lancashire.

This important conference had experts in the field of disinfection from the UK, France and Germany talking about disinfection for many different applications. Research on recovery of bacteria from surfaces, Electronic Nose Technology and biofilms was presented. Results of practical experience on laundry disinfection, hospital surface disinfection, decontamination of houses following possible contamination with anthrax spores and decontamination of spacecraft were also discussed. Efficacy requirements for Biocidal Product Authorisations, guideline development and standard test methods were considered. Click here for a copy of the 2 day programme.

Our Chief Microbiologist Valerie Fotheringham presented a paper on veterinary disinfection. Valerie is the convenor of European Committee CEN TC/216 Working Group 2 Veterinary Disinfectants and Antiseptics and presented a paper comparing laboratory standard disinfectant test methods with results from practical trials and clinical experience. The abstract can be seen below. A full copy of the powerpoint presentation is available on request.

Veterinary Disinfection - testing and practical application

V J C Fotheringham

 

The Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) requires the authorisation of disinfectants used in the veterinary area. Efficacy claims have to be supported and therefore suitable tests are required to provide assurance that products will be effective under practical conditions of use. EN standard methods for testing the activity of disinfectants used in the veterinary area have been published and are gaining acceptance as suitable methods for supporting efficacy claims. Bactericidal, fungicidal, mycobactericidal and virucidal test standards are published and work continues on the development of sporicidal test methods and surface test methods. In the United Kingdom disinfectants used in the veterinary area have been regulated for many years under the Animal Health Act and are listed as approved disinfectants for use against notifiable diseases. Products are required to pass laboratory tests against the causal agents of the disease to obtain DEFRA listing. This listing is accepted in many countries as proof of activity. These methods and the EN standard methods are designed to test products under conditions that influence the action of disinfectants in practical use. The suitability of the test conditions and the usefulness of the laboratory tests to support efficacy claims in the veterinary area is demonstrated by field tests, data from outbreaks of notifiable diseases and disease surveillance schemes.