Protecting washroom users

There are many European standards already in place, with the most important being BS EN 14885:2015 (‘Chemical disinfectants and antiseptics. Application of European Standards for chemical disinfectants and antiseptics’). This standard outlines that all disinfectants should be tested using a three phase method, where each successive phase simulates in-use conditions more closely.  

According to Genesis Biosciences, instead of following EN 14885, many manufacturers in the washroom hygiene sector in particular rely on data from one test method, and often not one which reflects the performance of the product in the actual application. 

The role of a disinfectant is to reduce the levels of pathogens so that diseases and infections cannot manifest, however the number of antimicrobial products being sold on the market that lack scientific data to support disinfectant claims raises serious concerns about end-user protection in washroom facilities.

Through its Biosan antimicrobial product range, Genesis Biosciences provides protection to users of washrooms and feminine hygiene units through patented ‘vapour technology’ based on a natural ingredient. 

By following the EN 14885 three-phase testing process, Genesis Biosciences says that it can prove with absolute certainty that its products provide protection to washroom users, and the company is now calling on other antimicrobial suppliers to prove its disinfectant claims.

Dr Phil Caunt, Research and Development Specialist at Genesis Biosciences, said: “Choosing to use cheaper antimicrobial products that lack scientific results can put end-users at risk of infection. Quite simply, if suppliers cannot provide accurate, transparent data then there should be big questions against the disinfectant effectiveness.”