Disinfectants should never be used as which of the following?

Disinfectants should never be used as which of the following?

• A. Surface cleaners
• B. Hand cleaners
• C. Deodorizers
• D. Polishes

Answer: (B)

Disinfectants are designed for nonporous surfaces and equipment, not for skin. They contain stronger chemicals that can irritate or burn the skin, and repeated contact can strip the skin’s protective barrier or cause dermatitis. Because of these risks, they should never be used as hand cleaners. For hands, use soap and water or a product specifically formulated for dermal use, following the label directions. Surface cleaners, deodorizers, and polishes are intended for surfaces as well; their safety and effectiveness on skin aren’t established, which is why the hand-cleaning context clearly points to avoiding disinfectants on the hands.

Disinfectants are designed for nonporous surfaces and equipment, not for skin. They contain stronger chemicals that can irritate or burn the skin, and repeated contact can strip the skin’s protective barrier or cause dermatitis. Because of these risks, they should never be used as hand cleaners. For hands, use soap and water or a product specifically formulated for dermal use, following the label directions. Surface cleaners, deodorizers, and polishes are intended for surfaces as well; their safety and effectiveness on skin aren’t established, which is why the hand-cleaning context clearly points to avoiding disinfectants on the hands.