Decontamination is a process or treatment that renders a device, instrument, work surface or environment safe to handle by reducing or removing harmful microorganisms and other contaminants. It encompasses sterilization, disinfection and antiseptic procedures【119730882636440†L110-L116】.
## Explanation
In microbiology and healthcare settings, decontamination prevents the spread of infectious agents and protects personnel and the environment. It involves a sequence of steps: physical removal of organic matter, application of chemical or physical agents to destroy pathogens, and safe disposal. Cleaning removes dirt and organic debris that can shield microbes from disinfectants. Disinfection uses chemicals such as alcohols, chlorine compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds or hydrogen peroxide to eliminate many pathogens on inanimate surfaces. Sterilization achieves complete destruction of all microorganisms, including spores, using methods like autoclaving, dry heat, gas sterilization with ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide vapour, and ionizing radiation. Antisepsis uses milder agents on living tissues to reduce microbial load on skin or mucous membranes. Factors affecting decontamination efficacy include the type and number of organisms, presence of organic material, concentration and exposure time of agents, and environmental conditions like pH and temperature. Biosafety guidelines stress that decontamination procedures must be validated and equipment such as biological safety cabinets and autoclaves should be maintained properly. Waste containing infectious agents is usually autoclaved before disposal or packaged and transported to facilities capable of safe treatment【119730882636440†L110-L144】.
## Methods and practices
In laboratories, glassware and media are sterilized in autoclaves at 121 °C and 15 psi for at least 15 minutes. Benchtops are wiped down with a 10 % bleach solution or 70 % ethanol before and after experiments. Laminar flow hoods use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove airborne contaminants, while UV lamps can inactivate residual microbes on surfaces. Hospitals disinfect stethoscopes, thermometers and bedrails with appropriate products between patients. Contaminated protective clothing is either disposed of as biohazard waste or laundered under controlled conditions. Field workers handling spills of infectious material apply absorbent materials and disinfectants, then collect and dispose of waste in sealed containers. These practices reduce the risk of infection and environmental contamination.
Effective decontamination protects workers, patients and the public by breaking the chain of infection and ensuring that materials and equipment are safe for reuse or disposal.
**Related Terms:** Sterilization, Disinfection, Antiseptic, Biohazard, Autoclave