DIN EN 17658:2021 Edition

This European Standard specifies a test method and the minimum requirements for the microbicidal activity of a chemical product when its intended to disinfect contaminated textiles in domestic laundry and prevent the transmission of microorganisms into the wash water and other textiles. This includes the intention of increasing the hygiene of domestic laundry and/or avoiding aesthetical problems (e. g. bad odour, spoilage). This method is able to measure the contribution of the biocidal product to the microbial reduction in contaminated cloths and washing liquor. The method described is a phase 2, step 2 laboratory test that simulates the conditions of application of the product and it is intended to determine the microbicidal activity of a product (PT2- textile disinfection, domestic use). This method is not limited to certain types of textiles as it considers a realistic worst-case (Cotton carrier and Polycotton ballast load) This method is not limited to certain ballast load capacities as it considered a realistic worst-case according to market studies (liquor ratio 1:5) This method is not limited to certain types of product use instructions (alone, as a combined product or alone but in combination with other laundry products such as detergents) This method is not limited to certain washing steps in which the product is used (pre-wash, main wash or rinsing) as the initial microbial load is a realistic worst case to cover all situations and soiling conditions are adapted according practical conditions of use This method considers the endpoint to be the end of the washing step where the product is intended to act. This method is not suitable for laundry disinfection technologies which require specific devices (e. g. active substances generated in situ through electrolysis). This method is not intended to be applied to laundry disinfection in the medical area (refer to EN 16616 for that application) All these other areas of application will be uncovered as this method in not intended to be applied: other applications where disinfecting textile is necessary (e. g. food processing, hotels, workwear e. g. from the pharmaceutical industry, laboratories, foodstuff areas or similar institutions).