What is a crucial safety rule when mixing low-to-intermediate-level disinfectants?

When dealing with low-to-intermediate-level disinfectants, a crucial safety rule is that chemicals should not be mixed. Mixing different disinfectants can lead to dangerous chemical reactions, potentially releasing toxic gases or creating hazardous substances. Each disinfectant has a specific formulation that is effective for its intended purpose, and any alteration by mixing can disrupt its efficacy and safety.

Using disinfectants as directed on their labels is essential. Each component of a disinfectant plays a role in its mechanism of action, and mixing different products can neutralize their effectiveness or produce harmful byproducts. Thus, adhering to the guideline of not mixing disinfectants is fundamental for both effectiveness in disinfection processes and the safety of personnel using these chemicals.