Which term describes the act of destroying or killing bacteria and a broad spectrum of viruses on non-porous surfaces?

• A. Disinfection standards
• B. Sterilization
• C. Antiseptics
• D. Vaccination

Answer: (A)

Disinfection is the process of destroying bacteria and a broad spectrum of viruses on inanimate surfaces. In a salon or spa setting, this means using an EPA-registered disinfectant on non-porous surfaces like countertops, handles, and metal or plastic equipment to reduce the risk of surface-borne infections between clients. It’s the appropriate level of cleaning for surfaces that don’t absorb liquids, but it’s not as thorough as sterilization, which aims to kill all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, and is typically reserved for tools that penetrate the skin or enter sterile areas. Antiseptics are intended for living tissue to prevent infection, not for cleaning surfaces, and vaccination is about building immunity in a person, not decontaminating surfaces. So the best term for the described act is disinfection.