ASTM E1053

Standard Practice to Assess Virucidal Activity of Chemicals Intended for Disinfection of Inanimate, Nonporous Environmental Surfaces

Summary

ASTM E1053-20 is a standard test method for evaluating the efficacy of virucidal products (liquid, spray, towelette, devices, etc.) to inactivate virus on inanimate environmental surfaces.  It involves applying the test substance to treat dried virus on a hard, non-porous surface (glass), holding for the contact time, then recovering and quantitatively measuring the remaining viable virus.  This method provides a standardized approach for evaluating the virucidal properties of disinfectants, sanitizers and other antimicrobial products.  ASTM E1053 is the stipulated method by U.S. EPA and Health Canada for a virucidal claim for a disinfectant or sanitizer product.  

Typical Test Substances

• Disinfectants – Liquid (direct soak), Spray, Pre-impregnated Towelettes
• Sanitizers (as applicable)
• Disinfection or sanitization devices

Test Flow Diagram

Regulatory Agencies / Purpose

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Health Canada 
• Other International Agencies

Similar Methods

• ASTM E2197
• EN 16777 
• OECD Virucidal Method  
• EPA Quantitative Carrier Method