What do the listings for disinfectants mean?

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By Michael Witgenfeld
1 min read

Medical disinfectants are identified according to specific lists. Labels contain references such as “VAH-listed” or “RKI-listed.” These refer to lists maintained by medical authorities or commissions that test disinfectants for quality. If the products meet the relevant quality criteria, they are included in the corresponding lists. These lists generally also provide instructions for use and further information about application.

Here are some examples of the most common listings:

  • VAH list: VAH is the “Association for Applied Hygiene.” It maintains a list of disinfectants that can be viewed online free of charge. This is an independent collection of certified products that meet current European standards, DIN-EN standards, and VAH’s own requirements. The VAH list contains information on efficacy spectra; all VAH-listed disinfectants are effective against bacteria (including antibiotic-resistant variants) and yeasts. Manufacturers can have additional efficacy spectra certified. All products on the list have been tested through two independent expert assessments.
  • RKI list: The Robert Koch Institute is one of the oldest biomedical research institutions and deals with a wide range of health-related topics. The institute also maintains a list of tested and approved disinfectants and the associated procedures. Quality is tested by the Robert Koch Institute itself.
  • IHO list: The Industrial Association for Hygiene and Surface Protection (IHO) maintains a list of disinfectants divided into segments such as healthcare, hand disinfection, laundry disinfection, animal hygiene, and use in industrial, food-related, or public settings.
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