Final answer:
The process of reducing disease-causing germs on cleaned surfaces to a safe level is called disinfection, which involves using antimicrobial chemicals or heat to sanitize surfaces. While highly effective, it does not guarantee complete sterilization because some resilient microbes may remain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical Process for Reducing Disease-Causing Germs
The chemical process used for reducing the number of disease-causing germs on cleaned surfaces to a safe level is known as disinfection. This process involves the application of antimicrobial chemicals or heat to fomites, which are nonliving objects that may carry infectious organisms.
Disinfection is aimed at reducing the microbial load to levels considered safe for public health but does not necessarily achieve full sterilization as some microbes, like endospores, may survive the process. Commonly used chemical disinfectants include chlorine bleach and products with chlorine; these agents must be effective, easy to use, and have a good safety profile. In healthcare settings, particular attention is given to disinfecting items based on their use, with higher levels of cleanliness required for items contacting sterile tissues or mucous membranes.