In a cosmetology or lab setting, which sanitation rule should be followed before starting a service?

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The main thing this question tests is infection control through proper pre-service sanitation. Before you touch a client, you should wash your hands, sanitize tools, and disinfect surfaces, then follow the established infection control procedures. Hand washing removes most germs and reduces the chance of cross-contamination, while sanitizing tools and disinfecting work surfaces prevents any remaining microbes from transferring to the client or their materials. Following the formal infection control protocol ensures you’re applying the right sequence with approved products and practices, including when and how gloves are used and how to maintain a clean workflow.

Wearing gloves at all times isn’t a universal rule and doesn’t replace washing hands or sanitizing instruments and surfaces. Cleaning the room after service is valuable, but it doesn’t address contamination risks during the service itself. Using any sanitizer available can be unsafe or ineffective if the product isn’t appropriate or used correctly.