Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the process of reducing the number of microorganisms on a surface or object called?

1. Disinfection

2. Sanitization

3. Sterilization

4. Decontamination

The correct answer is: Sanitization

The process of reducing the number of microorganisms on a surface or object is known as sanitization. This involves cleaning and reducing the microbial load to a safe level, which is particularly important in laboratory settings to ensure safety and minimize contamination risks. Sanitization can involve both physical cleaning methods, such as scrubbing, and chemical agents designed to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. In different contexts, terms like disinfection, sterilization, and decontamination represent varying levels of microbial control. Disinfection refers to the application of a chemical agent to destroy most microorganisms, but it may not eliminate all pathogens, especially resistant spores. Sterilization is a more stringent process that aims to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, using methods such as autoclaving or radiation. Decontamination is a broad term that may refer to any process that renders an object safe, which can include sanitization, but not solely focused on the reduction of microbes. The emphasis on reducing the number of microorganisms rather than eliminating them entirely is what distinctly characterizes sanitization. Understanding this differentiation is essential for applying correct terminology and procedures in laboratory animal care and research.