Brochure makes sense of European fabrics standard
A new brochure, Understanding the European Standard EN 13785, is now available from DuPont Medical Fabrics.
The 16-page brochure clarifies all available requirements of the proposed new EN standard, which is intended to harmonise the process of performance assessment of single use and reusable surgical gowns, drapes and clean air suits. It is also expected to contribute to the prevention of post-operative infections. Through the use of text, data tables and step-by-step diagrams and photographs, the brochure explains the essential requirements of the EN 13795 and its three parts. Part 1 defines the characteristics that must be evaluated for surgical gowns, drapes and clean air suits. Part 2 describes and illustrates the proposed test methods, while Part 3 refers to performance requirements and performance levels applicable to the characteristics outlined in Part 1. Under the standard, reusable or multi-patient products will have to be tested and certified as fit for use by laundries before being supplied for reuse in the operating theatre. Laundries will need to track use and reuse so that manufacturer's recommendations for lifetime limitations are not exceeded.