PSI Barbering Practice Exam

Which types of products are known to destroy most bacteria, fungi, and viruses on surfaces?

1. Antiseptics

2. Sanitizers

3. Disinfectants

4. Cleansers

The correct answer is: Disinfectants

Disinfectants are specifically formulated to destroy a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, on surfaces. These products contain chemical agents that are effective in reducing or eliminating harmful pathogens, making them essential for maintaining hygiene in environments such as barbershops where tools and surfaces must be sanitized to prevent the spread of infections. Antiseptics are typically used on living tissues to reduce the possibility of infection during surgeries or after cuts; however, they are not usually designed for use on surfaces and do not usually provide the same level of efficacy against all types of pathogens as disinfectants. Sanitizers are meant to reduce the number of bacteria to safe levels but do not necessarily eliminate all pathogens present. Their effectiveness is more limited compared to that of disinfectants, which are designed to provide a higher standard of cleanliness and safety. Cleansers are primarily used to remove dirt and debris from surfaces but do not have the antimicrobial properties necessary to destroy microorganisms. They help to prepare the surface for further disinfection or sanitization but do not provide complete microbial destruction on their own. Thus, disinfectants are the appropriate choice for destroying harmful microorganisms on surfaces effectively.