We often hear people using the terms “sanitisation” and “disinfection” interchangeably. However, these two terms actually mean slightly different things.
Let’s review the differences between these terms to ensure a more hygienic environment.
Purpose and Scope
The first major difference between disinfection and sanitisation is that they have different purposes and cover a different scope. The important thing to know is that sanitisation is not disinfection, but it can include disinfection as one of its functions. On the other hand, something can be sanitised without being disinfected.
Disinfection is more targeted. It’s a strategy aimed specifically at eliminating harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces and objects. It reduces the risk of infection—its primary purpose—using specialised chemicals to kill off pathogens.
Sanitisation on the other hand, is more of a broad term describing the overall maintenance and cleanliness of a space. It is generally aimed at promoting good hygiene and preventing the spread of disease, but it is not necessarily as clinical as disinfection and may not include disinfection at all.
Methods and Agents
Another major difference between disinfection and sanitisation is how each process is performed. Generally speaking, disinfection involves the use of powerful chemical agents, heat, or radiation to kill microorganisms that can cause infections.
The focus of disinfection is to completely sterilise objects and surfaces to prevent contamination at a microscopic level. Some common disinfectants include things like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or ultraviolet light.
When it comes to sanitisation, there is a much broader variety of methods, with disinfection being just one of them. Sanitisation can include the cleaning of floors, walls, and other items with soap and water to remove visible dirt or using ammonia-based cleaning agents to clean out toilets.
While sanitisation might not be as effective on a microscopic level, it is still relatively effective at ensuring a mostly hygienic environment.
Application and Frequency
In general, disinfection must be used rather frequently because it is most often needed in settings where dangerous microorganisms can present a serious risk, such as in healthcare facilities, food processing plants, or public spaces like doctors’ waiting rooms.
Much the same, sanitisation is frequently implemented through routine maintenance. It is an ongoing and continuous daily process that is practiced regularly throughout spaces to maintain a general sense of cleanliness, minimise the spread of disease, and prevent attracting pests.
It includes routine cleaning of surfaces, equipment, and entire facilities with common soaps and detergents, as well as ensuring that employees or customers have access to soap and water in bathrooms or spaces where food is being prepared.
Here at Enviro-Safe, we offer a range of sanitisation and disinfection services to ensure a healthy home or workplace. Contact us today to find out more.