Cosmetology · Sanitation, Disinfection and Sterilization

Place these three in order from lowest to highest level of decontamination: sanitation, sterilization, disinfection.

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Correct answer

Sanitation, disinfection, sterilization

A Sterilization, disinfection, sanitation
B They are all equal
C Sanitation, disinfection, sterilization
D Disinfection, sanitation, sterilization

Why this is the answer

From the lowest to the highest level of decontamination, the order is sanitation, then disinfection, then sterilization. Sanitation (cleaning) reduces the number of pathogens to a safer level but does not kill all of them. Disinfection uses chemical agents to destroy most pathogens on nonporous surfaces (the level used for most salon tools). Sterilization destroys all microbial life, including spores, and is used mainly in medical settings. Most salon services require thorough cleaning followed by disinfection of nonporous tools.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Levels of Decontamination

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About this topic: Sanitation, Disinfection and Sterilization

Sanitation, disinfection and sterilization are three different levels of cleanliness, and the exam tests which is required for which tool, which products achieve each level, contact times, and how to handle blood exposure. This is one of 9 Scientific Concepts questions on sanitation, disinfection and sterilization, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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Place these three in order from lowest to highest level of decontamination: sanitation, sterilization, disinfection.

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Sanitation, Disinfection and Sterilization

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