Final answer:
Electrical tools should be disinfected by wiping them with a disinfectant wipe to remove microbes without causing damage to the tool. Sterilization methods such as autoclaving are not suitable for electrical equipment due to the risk of damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
After removing all visible debris, electrical tools should be disinfected by wiping them with a disinfectant wipe. Soaking electrical tools in a disinfectant solution or placing them in an autoclave for sterilization is not recommended as these methods can damage the electrical components. Disinfectant sprays are also an option, but the spray must be used carefully to avoid moisture entering any electrical parts. It's essential to ensure that the disinfectant wipe is not overly wet and that the electrical tool is unplugged before cleaning. Additionally, the wiping should be gentle to prevent damage to the equipment.
The process of disinfection typically inactivates most microbes on the surface, although it does not lead to sterilization, which would require more extreme measures that could harm electrical tools. The use of a disinfectant wipe allows for the safe removal of microbial contaminants without introducing excessive moisture or heat that may impair the functionality of the electrical tool.