Final answer:
Protocols for cleaning and sterilizing medical equipment are established by government agencies and scientific organizations, and adopted by medical device manufacturers. End-users, such as hospitals, are responsible for following these procedures to avoid negative consequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Protocols for cleaning or sterilizing medical equipment are often developed by government agencies like the FDA, and other groups, like the AOAC, a nonprofit scientific organization that establishes many protocols for standard use globally. These procedures and protocols are then adopted by medical device and equipment manufacturers. Ultimately, the end-users (hospitals and their staff) are responsible for following these procedures and can be held liable if a breach occurs and patients become ill from improperly cleaned equipment.