The use of TGO 54 is not mandatory and a manufacturer may choose to use other standards, or tests for performance. It is widely accepted and commonly used by manufacturers in New Zealand to validate disinfectant efficacy.

However, the manufacturer must be able to demonstrate that other tests used deliver an outcome at least equivalent to the testing specified in TGO 54. 

Principle of test

The disinfectant is prepared according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. It is then tested by either a suspension or carrier format procedure. After the specified contact time the carriers are assessed for growth or no growth.

There are several test methods available depending on the manufacturer’s proposed claim for a disinfectant.

Time kill study / antimicrobial activity test

Used to identify the time required for a certain product concentration to kill certain level of bacteria/ fungi.   

TGA test (option A, option B, option C and option D)

TGA test options A and B are for products with a hospital grade label claim; option C is for products with a household/commercial grade label claim, and option D is for products with an antiseptic label claim. Note that antiseptics are not covered by TGO 54 requirements.

Hard surface carrier

Used to demonstrate the effectiveness of a disinfectant on a certain contaminated surfaces.  

Germicidal spray test

Used to determine the effectiveness of sprays and pressurised spray products as spot disinfectants for contaminated surfaces.   

Sporicidal carrier and suspension test

Used to determine the sporicidal activity of a product against specified spore-forming bacteria in various situations and potential efficacy as sterilising agent. 

Quantitative mycobacteria carrier

Used to assess the efficacy of disinfectants and sterilants against mycobacterium terrae by using the quantitative carrier method. Quantitative suspension test formats similar to the Ascenzi method are also available if required. 

Fungicidal test

Used to determine the sample dilution required to kill a certain level of Trichophyton mentagrophytes in 10 minutes. This test is an adaption of the phenol co-efficient test. 

Simulated in-use test

Tests under this guideline are customised to test the effectiveness of the product in 'real-life application' and conditions under which the product would be used. Typically, the test procedure would follow the ' directions for use' as described on the product label, or designed in consultation with client to mimic the normal operating process.

Hand rub and hand wash studies

These are volunteer studies, where simulated in-use hand rub/wash procedures are used to evaluate the products protocols used EN 1499 and EN 1500, EN12791.

Virucidal studies

We have a variety of reference viruses available for disinfectant evaluation of proposed marketing claims, including Adeno virus, Herpes virus and Polio virus. Testing may be performed as a suspension or carrier format depending on the nature of the proposed claims. Methods are based upon ASTM standards.

Any other studies

We are happy to perform other studies according to client testing protocols under GLP conditions if requested. Please ask the laboratory for assistance/advice.

Sample requirements 

Between 100ml to 2000ml in test dilution, depending on test protocols.

Turnaround time 

Between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on test protocols.

Get in touch

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