Office Antisepsis Know the difference between these three words: Disinfection – inhibition of microorganisms Sterilization – destruction of microorganisms Sanitation – clean enough to be healthy Disinfection involves the destruction and inhibition of microorganisms on any surface. Germicides disinfect non-living surfaces, such as the counter tops in the clinic. Antiseptics disinfect living surfaces, such as you hands. I had a hard time trying to remember the difference between germicides and antiseptics.

Office Antisepsis Know the difference between these three words: Disinfection – inhibition of microorganisms Sterilization – destruction of microorganisms Sanitation – clean enough to be healthy Disinfection involves the destruction and inhibition of microorganisms on any surface. Germicides disinfect non-living surfaces, such as the counter tops in the clinic. Antiseptics disinfect living surfaces, such as you hands. I had a hard time trying to remember the difference between germicides and antiseptics.