According to New York State regulations, which term refers to the process of cleaning or removing dirt and contaminants?

The concept of sanitation is fundamental in the context of maintaining a safe and hygienic environment within esthetics practices, as it focuses on the process of cleaning and removing dirt and contaminants. Sanitation specifically refers to practices and processes aimed at reducing the number of microorganisms and visible dirt on surfaces, thereby helping to protect the health of clients and practitioners alike.

When adhering to hygiene protocols, sanitation plays a vital role in ensuring that all tools and surfaces are properly cleaned to meet health standards, which is crucial in preventing the spread of infections within a spa or salon environment. This process often includes washing with soap and water and using appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain cleanliness.

In this scenario, the other terms, while related to health and safety practices, serve different purposes within the broader realm of infection control. Decontamination involves cleansing to both clean and disinfect surfaces or items, while disinfection refers specifically to eliminating or inactivating pathogens on surfaces. Pest control, on the other hand, deals with managing and eliminating pests rather than cleaning or sanitizing surfaces. Thus, sanitation is the most fitting term for the direct process of cleaning or removing dirt and contaminants.