What must be done to surfaces contaminated by blood or other potentially infectious materials?

Surfaces contaminated by blood or other potentially infectious materials require disinfection as a critical step in infection control to ensure the safety of both clients and practitioners. Disinfecting with a high-level solution is necessary because it effectively kills or inactivates harmful pathogens that may be present on these surfaces.

High-level disinfectants are specifically formulated to eliminate a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that can pose health risks when contamination occurs. This level of cleaning is essential in settings such as salons and spas, where both clients and staff must be protected from infectious diseases.

Utilizing only soap, as mentioned in one of the other options, is insufficient when dealing with bloodborne pathogens and does not provide the necessary level of disinfection. Additionally, simply wiping down surfaces or leaving them untreated lacks any substantial effectiveness in mitigating the risk of infection. Comprehensive cleaning and disinfection procedures are mandated by health regulations to maintain a safe environment.