California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
A cosmetologist uses a single-use straight razor to shave a client's neckline. After the service, how must the used blade be discarded according to California Title 16 requirements?
- APlaced in a labeled, puncture-resistant sharps container
- BRinsed with water and placed in the regular trash
- CSoaked in disinfectant solution and returned to the tool drawer
- DWiped with disinfectant and reused on the same client only
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Placed in a labeled, puncture-resistant sharps container
Used single-use razor blades are sharps and must be disposed of in a puncture-resistant, labeled sharps container to prevent injury and bloodborne pathogen exposure to staff and waste handlers, per Title 16 and Cal/OSHA bloodborne pathogen guidance.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Regular trash risks puncture injuries and pathogen exposure to others.
- C. Single-use sharps are discarded, never disinfected and reused.
- D. Single-use blades may never be reused, even on the same client.
Sharps Disposal
Used single-use blades and other sharps must be discarded in a labeled, puncture-resistant sharps container, never reused or thrown in regular trash.
- Applies to razor blades, lancets, and other single-use sharp tools.
- Container must be puncture-resistant and clearly labeled.
- Protects employees and waste handlers from bloodborne pathogen exposure.
Memory trick: 'Sharp goes in the box, not the box of tissues' — sharps container only.