California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
During a pedicure, a technician cleans and disinfects the foot spa basin between clients. What additional step must she perform regarding the basin's removable screen or filter?
- ARemove the screen, clean out trapped debris, and disinfect it separately before reinstalling
- BSoak the screen in plain water only, without any disinfectant
- CLeave the screen in place since it only requires cleaning once a week
- DReplace the screen with a brand-new one for every client
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Remove the screen, clean out trapped debris, and disinfect it separately before reinstalling
Foot spa screens and filters trap hair, skin, and debris that can harbor pathogens even in disinfected water; California regulations require the screen to be removed, cleaned of debris, and disinfected separately between each client, not just left in place or rinsed with water alone.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Water alone does not disinfect; an EPA-registered disinfectant must be used.
- C. Weekly cleaning is insufficient; debris builds up quickly and must be removed after each client.
- D. Screens are reusable equipment, not single-use disposable items.
Foot Spa Screen/Filter Cleaning
The removable screen or filter in a foot spa basin traps debris and biofilm and must be cleaned and disinfected separately between each client.
- Removed and cleaned after every client
- Disinfected with EPA-registered hospital disinfectant
- Prevents biofilm buildup that basin cleaning alone may miss
Memory trick: No screen left unscrubbed — pull it out, scrub it out.