Validating ISO 18184 Test Results
December 1, 2020
As the pandemic continues, lots of antimicrobial suppliers are releasing test data to show efficacy against viruses. Some of the data and information that we have seen out there is a bit misleading, so we want to provide some tips and information around virus data, to better help you evaluate the antimicrobial options out there.
- Test Validity – Throughout the ISO 18184 test, the control fabric should maintain high levels of the virus. The ISO 18184 protocol specifies that if the virus on the control fabric is reduced by more than 90%, the test is invalid.
- Look at the data closely – Some technologies that have claimed antiviral efficacy have either omitted control data, or presented control data with reductions ranging from 96%-99.8%. This control data signals that this test is invalid because the test was not performed under conditions that maintain viral activity on the control fabric.
- What is being tested? – There are lots of viruses that are commercially available for testing. Efficacy for these viruses is very important, and we don’t diminish that. However, for COVID 19, the virus you want ISO 18184 test results for is the SARS-CoV-2.
- Wash Durability – Some antimicrobial suppliers have stated that “washability remains a challenge” when it comes to maintaining antiviral efficacy. We agree! Well, for some technologies, but not Agion. Be sure that the wash durability is claimed in relation to the ISO 18184 results for antiviral efficacy. Our 3rd party test results showed 99.99% inactivation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in just 5 minutes after 20 washes! Now that’s washability!
We believe that valid data and accurate messaging is very important. Sciessent is in the business of partnerships and helping those partners grow through smarter technology and superior service.
Do you have questions about test data you have seen, or our 3rd party test results? Feel free to reach out to us!