Final answer:
According to OSHA, the use of means to inactivate bloodborne pathogens from a surface is called Disinfection. Disinfection does not achieve sterilization as some microbes, especially endospores, may survive. Chemicals used for sterilization are called sterilants, whereas antiseptics are used on living tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to OSHA, the use of physical or chemical means to inactivate bloodborne pathogens from a surface is known as Disinfection (Option B).
Disinfection inactivates most microbes on the surface of a fomite by using antimicrobial chemicals or heat. However, the disinfected item is not considered sterile, as this process does not destroy all forms of life, notably endospores. In healthcare settings and laboratories, there is also the process of sanitization, which involves cleansing to achieve levels safe for public health, and the highest level of cleanliness, sterilization, which is the complete removal or killing of all vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses.
The agent historically used to compare the effectiveness of chemical disinfectants is phenol. Disinfectants and antiseptics are chemical agents used to control microbes on inanimate surfaces and living tissues, respectively. Phenolic compounds were the first endorsed by Joseph Lister for use in aseptic surgery.
In terms of microbial control, sterilant chemicals are employed for sterilization, resulting in the eradication of all forms of microbial life. However, for general use on tissues to prevent infection, antiseptics are suitable as they are safe for application on living tissues.