Final answer:
Synthetic phenol compounds, categorized as intermediate-level hospital disinfectants by the EPA, can be used on stainless steel instruments but not on food surfaces, contact lenses, or skin due to their toxic nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the EPA, synthetic phenol compounds are categorized as intermediate-level hospital disinfectants. Phenols can be used on stainless steel instruments, which are inanimate objects commonly found in hospital settings. It is important to note that phenols are not suitable for use on food preparation surfaces, contact lenses, or skin and mucous membranes due to their toxic nature to humans and potential to cause severe burns and systemic poisoning, as they are carried to and affect all parts of the body.
Phenolics are stable, long-acting disinfectants that denature proteins and disrupt membranes, and are used in products like hospital disinfectants, mouthwashes, and household cleaners. However, due to the potential side effects of phenols, their use should be strictly limited to appropriate surfaces and not those that come into contact with the human body or food.