Cosmetology Safety & Sanitation Exam Study Guide
2026 | Infection Control Procedures, Disinfection
and Sterilization Standards, Blood Exposure
Protocols, Salon Health Regulations, PPE Use,
Cross-Contamination Prevention, Workplace
Hygiene Practices, and State Board Cosmetology
Safety Compliance Preparation Resource
, 1. Which of the following is the most effective method of preventing the spread of
infection in a salon?
• A) Using disposable tools
• B) Frequent handwashing
• C) Wearing gloves
• D) Using antibacterial products
Correct Option: B) Frequent handwashing
Rationale:
Frequent handwashing is essential because it physically removes pathogens from the
skin, reducing the risk of infection more effectively than just using disposable tools or
gloves. While these options can help, they do not replace the need for proper washing
techniques, which is crucial in maintaining hygiene.
2. What should be done immediately after a cut occurs during a procedure?
• A) Apply a disinfectant
• B) Continue with the service
• C) Wash the area with soap and water
• D) Place a bandage on it
Correct Option: C) Wash the area with soap and water
Rationale:
Washing the area with soap and water is the foremost step in addressing a cut, as it
minimizes the risk of infection and removes any harmful bacteria. Once the cut is clean,
additional steps like applying a disinfectant and covering it can be considered.
3. In which scenario is it acceptable to reuse non-disposable tools?
• A) After they have been cleaned and disinfected
• B) If they are made of metal
• C) If you are the only one using them
• D) None of the above
Correct Option: A) After they have been cleaned and disinfected
Rationale:
Non-disposable tools may be reused only when they have been thoroughly cleaned and
2026 | Infection Control Procedures, Disinfection
and Sterilization Standards, Blood Exposure
Protocols, Salon Health Regulations, PPE Use,
Cross-Contamination Prevention, Workplace
Hygiene Practices, and State Board Cosmetology
Safety Compliance Preparation Resource
, 1. Which of the following is the most effective method of preventing the spread of
infection in a salon?
• A) Using disposable tools
• B) Frequent handwashing
• C) Wearing gloves
• D) Using antibacterial products
Correct Option: B) Frequent handwashing
Rationale:
Frequent handwashing is essential because it physically removes pathogens from the
skin, reducing the risk of infection more effectively than just using disposable tools or
gloves. While these options can help, they do not replace the need for proper washing
techniques, which is crucial in maintaining hygiene.
2. What should be done immediately after a cut occurs during a procedure?
• A) Apply a disinfectant
• B) Continue with the service
• C) Wash the area with soap and water
• D) Place a bandage on it
Correct Option: C) Wash the area with soap and water
Rationale:
Washing the area with soap and water is the foremost step in addressing a cut, as it
minimizes the risk of infection and removes any harmful bacteria. Once the cut is clean,
additional steps like applying a disinfectant and covering it can be considered.
3. In which scenario is it acceptable to reuse non-disposable tools?
• A) After they have been cleaned and disinfected
• B) If they are made of metal
• C) If you are the only one using them
• D) None of the above
Correct Option: A) After they have been cleaned and disinfected
Rationale:
Non-disposable tools may be reused only when they have been thoroughly cleaned and
