Health, Safety, and Infection Control
What this domain tests
Health, Safety and Infection Control tests the chain of infection, cleaning, disinfection, sterilisation, PPE, chemical safety, waste disposal and first aid. Expect questions on which method is correct for each item.
Core rules and concepts
- Cleaning removes visible soil; disinfection kills most pathogens on surfaces; sterilisation destroys all microorganisms including spores.
- Use the right level: work surfaces and floors need cleaning and disinfection; reusable metal implements that penetrate or contact broken skin need sterilisation.
- Single-use items such as files, blades and cotton must not be reused.
- PPE includes gloves, apron and eye protection where splashes are possible. Change gloves between clients.
- Store chemicals in labelled containers, never in drinks bottles, and keep them away from clients and children.
- Dispose of sharps in a sharps container and contaminated waste according to local rules.
- Know emergency steps: stop the service, ensure safety, give first aid, report and record.
Worked example
A nail clipper has been used on a client. Reason it out: it is reusable metal and has contacted skin and nail. Clean it mechanically, then disinfect or sterilise it according to the salon protocol; do not simply wipe it and put it away. A single-use file from the same service goes into the waste bin, not back in the drawer.
Traps that cost marks
Do not confuse disinfection with sterilisation. Do not store tools wet. Do not reuse single-use items. Do not wear the same gloves for two clients. Do not decant chemicals into unlabelled bottles.