Three Levels of Decontamination
Every nail technician must know the difference between sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization. These are not interchangeable terms, and confusing them on the exam will cost you points.
| Level | What It Does | Examples | Required For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanitation | Reduces pathogen count; does not kill all organisms | Soap and water, hand sanitizer | Hands, surfaces before disinfection |
| Disinfection | Kills most bacteria, viruses, fungi on nonporous surfaces | EPA-registered quats, hospital-grade phenolics | Reusable nonporous implements between clients |
| Sterilization | Kills all organisms including spores | Autoclave (steam under pressure) | Items that penetrate skin (rarely required in salons) |
Implement Protocols
Nonporous Implements (Metal Tools)
Metal nail clippers, nippers, pushers, and files with metal surfaces are nonporous and can be disinfected. Steps:
- Clean: remove all visible debris with soap and water or a brush.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Immerse in EPA-registered disinfectant for the full contact time stated on the label. Do not shorten the time.
- Remove, rinse (if required by label), and store in a clean, closed container.
Porous Items (Single Use)
Nail files, buffers, pumice stones, and orangewood sticks are porous. They cannot be adequately disinfected. They must be discarded after each client or immediately if they come into contact with broken skin. Never reuse a porous item on a second client.
Pedicure Basin Protocol
Pedicure basins receive heavy contamination and require strict protocol:
- Between clients: Drain, clean all surfaces with soap and water to remove debris, apply EPA-registered disinfectant at proper dilution, allow full contact time per label, rinse, and dry before next client.
- End of day: Full clean and disinfection cycle, then a water flush if the basin has jets.
- Whirlpool basins with jets: Require additional cleaning of the internal pipe system. Some states mandate weekly disinfection cycles with a bleach solution circulated through the jets. Know your state's specific requirements.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Every chemical product used in the salon must have an SDS (formerly called MSDS) available for employees. The SDS provides critical information including proper dilution, contact time, first aid for exposure, storage requirements, and disposal instructions. Employees have the legal right to access SDS documents for all products in the workplace under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.