3 main levels of decontamination:
Sterilization, disinfection and
sanitation
Sterilization - Answer Is the highest level, kills all micro organisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi and bacterial
spores. Methods: steam, autoclave and dry heat.
Disinfection - Answer Is the 2nd level. Kills most micro organisms on hard, nonporous surfaces, DOES
NOT kill bacterial spores. Methods: EPA disinfectants. *Quaternary ammonium compounds: complete
immersion for 10-15 mins, very effective for cleaning tables & countertops. *Phenol: caustic poison,
softened or discolored rubber & plastic materials. Phenols in 5% solution are mostly for metal
implements.
Alcohol - Answer No less than 70% is not an EPA registered disinfectant. This means it is not a legal
disinfectant in most states.
Household bleach - Answer Sodium hypochlorite, effective laundering additive.
sanitation: the lowest level. - Answer Does not kill, reduce the number or pathogens or diseases
producing organisms found on the surface. Methods: wash hands with water & soap, antiseptic and
hand sanitizers.
Sterilization, disinfection and
sanitation
Sterilization - Answer Is the highest level, kills all micro organisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi and bacterial
spores. Methods: steam, autoclave and dry heat.
Disinfection - Answer Is the 2nd level. Kills most micro organisms on hard, nonporous surfaces, DOES
NOT kill bacterial spores. Methods: EPA disinfectants. *Quaternary ammonium compounds: complete
immersion for 10-15 mins, very effective for cleaning tables & countertops. *Phenol: caustic poison,
softened or discolored rubber & plastic materials. Phenols in 5% solution are mostly for metal
implements.
Alcohol - Answer No less than 70% is not an EPA registered disinfectant. This means it is not a legal
disinfectant in most states.
Household bleach - Answer Sodium hypochlorite, effective laundering additive.
sanitation: the lowest level. - Answer Does not kill, reduce the number or pathogens or diseases
producing organisms found on the surface. Methods: wash hands with water & soap, antiseptic and
hand sanitizers.
