PSI Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the lowest level of decontamination?

1. Disinfection

2. Sanitizing a surface

3. Sterilizing

4. Cleaning

The correct answer is: Sanitizing a surface

The lowest level of decontamination is sanitizing a surface. Sanitization is a process that significantly reduces the number of microorganisms on a surface to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. This is crucial in environments like salons, where cleanliness is paramount in preventing the spread of infections and ensuring client safety. Sanitizing typically involves the use of chemical agents or heat, which may eliminate some but not all microorganisms compared to more advanced methods. This makes it an essential practice for maintaining hygiene in everyday situations, but it does not guarantee complete eradication of all pathogens. While cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and debris from surfaces and is a necessary first step before sanitizing, it does not necessarily reduce the microbial load to the same extent that sanitizing does. Disinfection takes things a step further by killing a higher number of specific pathogens but may not achieve complete sterilization. Sterilization is the highest level of decontamination, eliminating all forms of microbial life, including spores.