Choosing Sporicidal Products for Surface Disinfection

This guide outlines the criteria for selecting sporicidal products for surface disinfection in healthcare settings. It emphasizes the importance of effective surface disinfection as a key component of infection prevention and details the varying levels of antimicrobial activity required based on clinical risk, surface risk, and pathogen risk. The document explains that the decision to use sporicidal products should consider factors such as patient risk, surface risk, and whether disinfection is routine or in response to an outbreak. It describes the differences between bactericidal, sporostatic, and sporicidal products, highlighting their respective roles in controlling microbial transmission. The guide also presents a risk-based approach to disinfectant selection, aligning product efficacy with the assessed risk levels. Additionally, it provides insight into the active substances used in various disinfectants and the relevant EN standards that support their efficacy claims. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure appropriate infection prevention without unnecessary escalation in antimicrobial activity.