Which infection control method eliminates bacteria and viruses on surfaces?

Disinfection is the infection control method specifically designed to eliminate bacteria and viruses on surfaces. It involves the application of chemical agents to non-living objects or surfaces to destroy or inactivate pathogens, making it effective in preventing the spread of infections. This process significantly reduces the number of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, but it does not necessarily eliminate all of them; some may survive in viable forms.

In contrast, sanitation is a broader term that refers to reducing the number of microorganisms to a safe level according to public health standards, which may not be sufficient for surfaces that require a higher degree of cleanliness, such as those in esthetician settings.

Sterilization represents the most intensive level of decontamination, ensuring that all forms of microbial life, including spores, are completely destroyed. While it is highly effective, it is typically reserved for surgical instruments and tools that penetrate tissue, rather than common surfaces.

Decontamination involves both cleaning and disinfection procedures to remove contaminants but does not specifically eliminate all pathogens, and it usually applies to a broader range of contexts.

Thus, disinfection is the correct choice when seeking an effective method for eliminating bacteria and viruses specifically on surfaces.