International Standards Task Group - Center for Biofilm Engineering

The Center for Biofilm Engineering at Montana State University is working with leading biofilm research centers in the UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia to develop international standardized biofilm test methods. The International Biofilm Standards Task Group (IBSTG) is focusing its efforts on testing methods in health care settings, industrial systems, and the built environment. By doing so, the group aims to enable informed and consistent decision-making regarding international regulation of antibiofilm products. Input from industry and agencies is welcome. Email U.S. contact Dr. Darla Goeres

Mission

To drive the international development, harmonization and implementation of biofilm test methods and standards in health care, the built environment, and industrial systems.

Goal

Enable for informed and consistent global decision making on the regulation of anti-biofilm products.

Aims

Collaborate with regulatory decision makers to define the importance of using biofilm methods for biofilm specific label claims
Promote the need for harmonized global biofilm standards to public officials through a consortium of established and recognized regional expert organizations
Support the standardization and validation of biofilm test methods that are referenced in regulatory guidance documents
Promote the use of statistically validated biofilm methods in regulating products with biofilm label claims relevant to various industry and consumer segments
Leverage the global nature of the consortium to harmonize testing methods across geographies
Engage industry, research institutions, and academic stakeholders in the method development process in coordination with the various regulatory agencies
Champion biofilm methods in country and industry specific standard setting committees
Promote international consensus in the biofilm methods recognized in regulatory guidance documents