Regulatory Agencies
What does OSHA stand for?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Define “infection.”
The invasion of body tissues by disease-causing pathogens.
What is a microorganism?
A microorganism is a tiny organism that can be plant or animal-like; some are harmless, some cause disease.
What is the first step in proper infection control?
Cleaning.
What does PPE stand for?
Personal Protective Equipment.
Which federal agency registers all disinfectants used in the U.S.?
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Name one reason why beauty professionals must study infection control.
To protect the health of clients and professionals, follow laws and rules, and prevent the spread of disease.
Name the five main types of harmful organisms.
Bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, biofilms.
Why must tools be cleaned before disinfecting?
Because dirt, oils, and debris block disinfectants from working properly.
When should gloves be changed during a service?
Between clients, and sometimes multiple times during a service if switching tasks.
What is the difference between a law and a rule in the barbering industry?
Laws are written by legislatures and determine the scope of practice; rules are created by regulatory agencies to establish specific standards of conduct.
What is the difference between direct and indirect transmission?
Direct = person-to-person (e.g., touch, sneezing, coughing); Indirect = contact with a contaminated object or surface.
What is MRSA and why is it dangerous?
MRSA is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a dangerous bacteria resistant to many antibiotics.
What is the minimum amount of time an item must stay immersed in disinfectant?
10 minutes (or as directed by the manufacturer).
Why should you avoid using bar soap in the salon?
Bacteria can grow on bar soap; liquid soap in pumps is safer.
Which agency requires Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemical products?
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
Give one example of airborne or respiratory droplet transmission.
Talking, sneezing, or coughing can spread respiratory droplets or airborne pathogens such as influenza
What type of fungus is known as “barber’s itch”?
Tinea barbae.
How should disinfectants be mixed to avoid danger?
Always add disinfectant to water, not water to disinfectant.
Name one safety precaution when working with electrical tools.
Keep cords organized and out of the way; never put tools in your mouth or pocket; only use properly maintained equipment.
What types of actions can state boards take if safety regulations are violated?
Warnings, fines, probation, suspension, or revocation of license.
Why is it important to treat all clients as if they could be infectious?
Because some clients may carry diseases without symptoms (asymptomatic), and all bodily fluids should be treated as potentially infectious.
Which two highly contagious viruses can cause warts and cold sores?
Human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV).
What is the difference between cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing?
Cleaning removes visible dirt and many germs; disinfecting uses chemicals to kill most harmful organisms (not spores); sterilizing destroys all microbial life, including spores.
Why is it important to keep an updated emergency contact list in the barbershop?
To ensure you can respond quickly in emergencies and protect clients and staff.