Artificial dry surface biofilm (DSB) models for testing the efficacy of cleaning and disinfection

Dry surface biofilms (DSB) harbouring pathogens are widespread in healthcare settings, difficult to detect and resistant to cleaning and disinfection interventions. Here, we describe a practical test protocol to palliate the lack of standard efficacy test methods for DSB. Staphylococcus aureus DSB were produced over a 12‐day period, grown with or without the presence of organic matter, and their composition and viability were evaluated. Disinfectant treatment was conducted with a modified ASTM2967‐15 test and reduction in viability, transferability, and biofilm regrowth post treatment were measured. Dry surface biofilms produced over a 12‐day period had a similar carbohydrates, proteins and DNA content, regardless the presence or absence of organic matter. The combination of sodium hypochlorite (1,000 ppm) and a microfiber cloth was only effective against DSB in the absence of organic load. With the increasing concerns of the uncontrolled presence of DSB in healthcare settings, the development of effective interventions is paramount. We propose that our DSB model in the presence of organic load is appropriate for the testing of biocidal products, while the use of three parameters, log10 reduction, transferability and regrowth, provides an accurate and practical measurement of product efficacy