Phenolics Phenolics are known as tuberculocidal and are found in common products like Lysol. They have a pH level that can be harmful to eyes and skin so protective equipment is advised. These chemicals may damage rubber and plastic and corrode some metals. Quaternary ammonium Quaternary ammonium products are safe to disinfect tools, such as combs and brushes, when immersed for ten-twenty minutes. They do include anti-rust properties, but items should not be immersed for extended periods. It is important to follow label directions to ensure the effectiveness of the chemicals that may require the tools to be immersed or the product to remain on the surface for 10 minutes. Or longer. Check the label to see if the chemical is approved for use on a specific surface to avoid corrosion of metal tools and damage to acrylic, plastics, or rubber materials. Discard chemicals that are out of date according to label instructions to ensure they cannot be accessed by children or animals. Do not put disinfectants in different, or unmarked containers that do not have the original EPA and manufacturer’s label attached. Do not store them where exposed to heat or light and always secure chemicals in a locked cabinet. Pedicure basins or bowls can pose a triple threat for harboring bacteria, virus, and fungi pathogens that can lead to some serious infection and disease. The EPA provides the following information for disinfecting this equipment and shows the registered EPA label information that is effective against all three pathogens (EPA,2021): Nightly For whirlpool foot spas, air-jet basins, "pipe-less" foot spas, and other circulating spas : 1. Remove the filter screen, inlet jets, and all other removable parts from the basin and clean out any debris trapped behind or in them. Pedicure foot spa chair basin showing the filter screen, inlet jets, and other removable parts that require special attention during the disinfecting process. 2. Using a brush, scrub these parts with soap or disinfectant (following cleaning directions). 3. Rinse the removed parts with clean water and place them back into the basin apparatus. 4. Fill the basin with clean water and add an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant, following label directions. Turn the unit on and circulate the system with the liquid for 10 minutes, or the label-indicated time if different. (The whirlpool mechanism of the tub must be operating for the entire disinfection period so the piping and internal components that contain hidden bacteria are disinfected.) 5. After disinfection, drain, rinse, and air dry. For simple basins (no circulation): 1. Drain the basin and remove any visible debris. 2. Scrub the bowl with a clean brush and soap or disinfectant (following cleaning directions). Rinse and drain. 3. Disinfect basin surfaces with and EPA-registered hospital disinfectant, following manufacturer's instructions. Surfaces must remain wet with the disinfectant for 10 minutes or the contact time stated on the label. 4. Drain the basin and remove any visible debris.
Alcohol Alcohol has been used for many years, so it is not registered with the EPA. There are two types, ethyl and isopropyl, used in cosmetology and both must contain a 70-90% concentration to be effective. Both types are used as antiseptics and disinfectants and differ in molecular composition. Both can be used on the skin and isopropyl, known as rubbing alcohol, is less drying. Ethyl is used as a solvent and more effective in killing virus on surfaces. Safe use of disinfection Directions for use must be carefully followed to protect the staff and clients. Only registered EPA products should be used for approved purpose only. All the lists of EPA registered disinfectants and pesticides that are effective to destroy pathogens can be found on the website, https:// www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/selected-epa-registered- disinfectants#pathogens. Disinfectants are never used on humans and protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and face masks may be required according to specific product directions included on the label. Some of these chemicals have fumes that may irritate the eyes, skin, or nasal passages and are extremely harmful if inhaled. Never combine chemicals, especially those containing bleach with ammonia products, which produces extremely caustic fumes. Use gloves or tongs to remove tools that have been immersed in disinfecting solutions. Always be sure the area is well ventilated when using disinfectants. Customer precautions - Protecting the client Check the condition of the client's feet and legs: If open sores or skin wounds are present (including insect bites, scratches, scabbed-over wounds, or any condition that weakens the skin barrier), explain to the client why they should not use the foot bath. Complete pedicure or wax after the foot bath soak: Any procedure that risks damage to a client's skin should not be done before soaking feet in the foot spa basin. Step-by-step instructions for disinfecting pedicure foot spa equipment After each client This can take place any time after the client's feet are out of the footbath, while feet are massaged, toes are painted, or other opportunities: 1. Drain the water from the foot spa basin or bowl and remove any visible debris. 2. Clean the surfaces of the foot spa with soap or detergent, rinse with clean water, and drain. 3. After cleaning, disinfect the surfaces with an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant (see label description) according to the manufacturer's directions on the label. Surfaces must remain wet with the disinfectant for 10 minutes or the time stated on the label, which may be shorter. For whirlpool foot spas, air-jet basins, "pipe-less" foot spas, and other circulating spas: It is best to disinfect by filling the basin with clean water, adding the appropriate amount of liquid disinfectant, and turning the unit on to circulate the disinfectant for the entire contact time. 4. After disinfection, drain and rinse with clean water.
Book Code: COH0325A
Page 13
EliteLearning.com/Cosmetology
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