5.1 This procedure should be used for in vivo evaluation of the performance of antibacterial handwash products that are intended to reduce the skin micro flora following repeated use. Activity against the combined transient and resident micro flora may be assessed. Historically counts from the first basin are considered to be transients.4 ^,6 The latter measurement is probably more meaningful as the resident population is more stable.

5.1.1 This test method is applicable for testing all forms of topical antimicrobial handwash formulations.

1.1 This test method covers determining the effectiveness of an antibacterial handwash for reducing the level of aerobic bacterial flora on the hands, following an extended period of use.

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

1.3 In this test method metric units are used for all applications, except for distance. In this case, inches are used and metric units follow in parentheses.

1.4 Performance of this procedure requires the knowledge of regulations pertaining to the protection of human subjects. (Title 21 CFR, Part 50).

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 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.