What is the main purpose of low level disinfection?

The primary purpose of low level disinfection is to reduce microbial load on surfaces and non-critical items, effectively decreasing the likelihood of infection transmission. This level of disinfection is particularly useful for items that come into contact with intact skin but not with mucous membranes or broken skin. Low level disinfectants can eliminate most bacteria and some viruses, which is crucial in maintaining hygiene in settings such as salons and spas where the risk of cross-contamination exists.

While killing all pathogens is important in certain contexts, particularly in high-risk health care settings, low level disinfection does not achieve that. Cleaning and decontamination, as well as the removal of visible dirt, are also critical processes but serve different purposes in infection control. Cleaning primarily involves physical removal of dirt and debris, while decontamination is a broader term that can encompass various methods, including disinfection and sterilization. Low level disinfection specifically focuses on reducing the number of microorganisms rather than completely eliminating all possible pathogens.