ISO 16604:2004 describes a laboratory test method for computing the conflict of materials used in defensive clothing to penetration by blood-borne pathogens. This test method uses a replacement microbe under circumstances of continuous liquid contact. Defensive clothing "pass/fail" determinations are based on the detection of viral penetration at an exact hydrostatic pressure using the ISO 13994 test apparatus.
This test method is not always powerful in testing defensive clothing materials having thick, inner liners which willingly absorbs the challenge fluid.
This test method includes a complex assay process. Because of the length of time essential to complete this test method, it might not be suitable for use as a material or defensive clothing quality control or assurance process.