OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

What is the appropriate concentration range of hypochlorite to decontaminate bench tops?

1. 0.5 - 1 %

2. 5 - 6 %

3. 1 - 2 %

4. 5 - 10 %

The correct answer is: 0.5 - 1 %

The appropriate concentration range of hypochlorite for decontaminating bench tops is indeed within the range of 0.5% to 1%. This concentration is effective for killing a wide range of pathogens while minimizing potential damage to surfaces and ensuring safety for personnel. Using a concentration within this range strikes a balance between efficacy in disinfection and safety for use on various laboratory surfaces. Higher concentrations can be more harmful to surfaces and can produce potentially hazardous fumes, making them less desirable for routine cleaning and disinfection tasks. Lower concentrations may not be sufficient to adequately kill pathogens, which is why the 0.5% to 1% range is recommended. While choices that are higher in concentration may be effective in certain contexts, they typically are not recommended for routine disinfection of bench tops where safety and surface integrity are also important considerations.