Final answer:
Chlorine sanitizer must remain in contact with a utensil or surface for at least 30 seconds to be effective. This contact time ensures a 90% reduction in microbial population, similar to the standard of phenol. Factors like organic matter and concentration of the sanitizer can affect its efficacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
To effectively sanitize utensils or surfaces using chlorine, the contact time between the sanitizer and the surface is crucial. According to guidelines for proper sanitation, chlorine sanitizer solutions typically require a contact time of at least 30 seconds to be effective at killing the majority of harmful microorganisms. This timeframe ensures that a significant reduction of the microbial load is achieved, leading to proper sanitation.
Referring to the decimal reduction time, it is defined as the time required to reduce a microbial population by 90% (Option C). When comparing the effectiveness of chemical disinfectants historically, they are typically measured against the standard of phenol (Option A). Furthermore, when assessing the efficiency of chlorine treatments, figures and studies show that an increase in contact time results in greater microbial control effectiveness.
Various factors can compromise the effectiveness of a disinfectant, including inadequate contact time, the presence of organic matter, and the concentration or temperature of the disinfectant solution. For chlorine sanitizers, ensuring the correct contact time, absence of organic debris, and proper concentration is paramount for achieving desired sanitation levels.