What term is defined as the physical removal of all visible dust, soil, and foreign material from an object in New York State regulations?

The term that is defined as the physical removal of all visible dust, soil, and foreign material from an object is "cleaning." This process is essential in ensuring that surfaces and instruments are free from contaminants before any further sanitation or disinfection processes can take place. Cleaning typically involves the use of soap, water, and scrubbing to physically remove debris and dirt.

Sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization are often confused with cleaning but serve different purposes. Sanitation refers to reducing the number of bacteria to safe levels, which does not necessarily eliminate all debris or contaminants. Disinfection goes a step further by applying chemical agents to kill pathogens on surfaces but does not ensure the removal of all visible dirt. Sterilization is the complete elimination of all microorganisms, including spores, often through high heat or chemical agents, which is a more intensive process than cleaning.

Therefore, understanding the distinction between these terms is critical in the context of health and safety regulations in esthetic practices, as proper cleaning lays the groundwork for effective sanitation and disinfection.