What is the first step in the sanitation process?

The first step in the sanitation process is cleaning. This step involves the removal of dirt, dust, and impurities from surfaces and tools. Cleaning is essential because it prepares surfaces for subsequent sanitation methods such as disinfecting and sterilizing. Without proper cleaning, disinfectants cannot effectively reduce the number of pathogens present, as they require a clean surface to work optimally.

By removing visible debris and organic matter, this step ensures that the sanitization process can be more effective in controlling bacterial and viral contamination. It lays the groundwork for a safe and hygienic environment, making it a fundamental part of any sanitation protocol in cosmetology and other health-related fields. This foundational aspect of sanitation emphasizes the importance of maintaining cleanliness before progressing to more advanced methods of disinfection and sterilization, which are secondary steps in the sanitation process.