In laboratory settings, the term “contaminated” generally refers to having an actual or potential presence of a pathogen.
The terms “decontamination” and “disinfection” are similar. Both describe the use of a physical (e.g., thermal) or chemical (e.g., application of disinfectant) process that removes, reduces, inactivates, or destroys most pathogens from objects or surfaces, rendering them safe to handle, use, or discard.
Decontamination typically refers to the application of equipment or tools, whereas disinfection mainly refers to the use on surfaces.
Disinfection is less lethal than sterilization because it eliminates virtually all pathogens on inanimate objects but not necessarily all microbial forms (e.g., bacterial spores).
Sterilization is a physical or chemical process that kills all microorganisms, including spores. It is typically accomplished in clinical labs through autoclaving with heat and steam.
Disinfection and sterilization are both decontamination processes.
EPA-approved disinfectants are regularly used in laboratories to decontaminate work surfaces and equipment. They are used after work with potentially infectious material is completed and after any potential spill, splash, or other contamination occurrence.
