What is the lowest level of infection control?

Sanitation is considered the lowest level of infection control because it involves practices that reduce the number of microorganisms on surfaces or objects to safe levels as dictated by public health guidelines. This typically includes cleaning and rinsing surfaces to remove dirt and debris, which can harbor bacteria and viruses.

Unlike disinfection, which aims to destroy a broader range of pathogens but may not eliminate all forms of bacteria and viruses, sanitation focuses primarily on maintaining cleanliness and minimizing the risk of infection. It is a foundational practice essential in all health and beauty environments, but it does not reach the higher levels of infection control achieved through disinfection or sterilization, where the goal is to kill or eliminate pathogens completely. Cleaning, often considered a preliminary step, is about removing visible dirt and organic material but does not necessarily involve the use of chemical agents to achieve a state safe from infection.