Meaning and use

3.1 Spoilage of paint in containers is usually associated with the use of contaminated raw materials, water (especially recycled washing water), containers, pipes and equipment in manufacturing plants. A simple method is needed to determine the presence or absence of microorganisms in plants that make paints and coatings. Such determination allows manufacturers to identify contamination points (i.e., raw materials or problem management areas in the plant) to help address corruption.

Note 1: Some contamination of plant areas is expected, as microorganisms are ubiquitous and in practice usually cannot be eliminated (this is what the preservatives in the tank should control). Excessive contamination or contamination of raw materials may exceed the capacity of the preservative. If your plant has excessive contamination, there are disinfection methods including steam, preservatives, bleach, etc. These should be discussed with your fungicide supplier and used with care. Recycling spoiled or contaminated products is often not feasible, so the importance of proper fungicide levels combined with good plant management practices is self-evident. Your biocide supplier can also help here.

3.2 This test method can be used by people without basic microbiological training, but some training in aseptic techniques is recommended.

Note 2: The reliability of the results obtained from this test method depends greatly on the technique used. Incorrect techniques can result in sterile samples being contaminated, or worse, contaminated samples appearing sterile (see 5.1). It is recommended that you consult your biocide supplier, raw material supplier or independent testing laboratory to confirm suspicious results.

ASTM D5588-1997 Standard Test Method for Determination of Microbial Conditions in Paints, Paint Raw Materials, and Plant Areas

Step 1: Scope

1.1 This test method includes procedures for determining the microbial status (contaminated or sterile) of raw materials used in paint production and the microbial status of paint and paint manufacturing areas.

1.2 Values expressed in SI units shall be considered standard. The values given in parentheses are for reference only.

1.3 This standard is not intended to address all safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of users of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory restrictions prior to use.

1.4 This international standard is based on internationally recognized standardization principles established in the “Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guidelines and Recommendations” issued by the Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) of the World Trade Organization.