The procedure should be used to test the degerming effectiveness of antimicrobial hand washing products used by health care personnel that are intended for frequent use, and that are intended to reduce the level of contamination acquired through contact with contaminated objects or people.

Performance of these procedures requires the knowledge of regulations pertaining to the protection of human subjects (Ref 1).³

1.1 This test method can be used to determine the effectiveness of antimicrobial handwashing agents (including handrubs) in the reduction of transient bacterial flora with particular emphasis on the fingernail region.

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

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 hazard statements, see 7.5.