Cosmetology · Sanitation, Disinfection and Sterilization

Is a UV light box (so-called 'sterilizer') an acceptable substitute for chemical disinfection of tools?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

No — UV boxes do not reliably disinfect; they are generally used only for clean storage, not as a substitute for proper disinfection

A No — UV boxes do not reliably disinfect; they are generally used only for clean storage, not as a substitute for proper disinfection
B Yes, it replaces handwashing
C Yes, it sterilizes everything
D Yes, for porous items

Why this is the answer

A UV light box is not an acceptable substitute for proper chemical disinfection. UV boxes do not reliably kill the range of pathogens on tools and are generally suitable only as clean, dry storage for already-disinfected implements. Tools must first be cleaned and disinfected with an appropriate EPA-registered product. Relying on a UV box alone leaves tools unsafe. This is a common misconception, and exams test whether candidates know that UV storage does not equal disinfection or sterilization.

Source: Scientific Concepts — UV Storage Misconception

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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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Is a UV light box (so-called 'sterilizer') an acceptable substitute for chemical disinfection of tools?

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Sanitation, Disinfection and Sterilization

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