California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
After disinfecting a set of shears for the full required contact time, a cosmetologist removes them from the solution and rinses them. Per California regulations, where must these implements be kept until their next use?
- AIn an open drawer with other supplies
- BWrapped loosely in a cloth on the station
- CLeft wet inside the disinfectant jar
- DIn a clean, dry, covered container
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. In a clean, dry, covered container
California Title 16 requires that disinfected implements be stored in a clean, dry, closed or covered container to prevent recontamination before their next use. Leaving tools wet, exposed, or in open storage violates sanitation storage rules.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. An open drawer exposes implements to dust and cross-contamination.
- B. An open cloth wrap does not protect implements from contamination.
- C. Storing wet in the disinfectant jar promotes corrosion and doesn't meet dry-storage rules.
Storage of Disinfected Implements
California regulations require disinfected tools to be kept dry and enclosed in a covered, sanitary container until used again.
- Storage container must be clean and labeled 'disinfected'
- Implements must be completely dry before storage
- Open or wet storage risks recontamination
- Separate containers used for 'used' vs 'disinfected' tools
Memory trick: 'Cover it like a treasure' — keep tools sealed and dry.