What should be done if equipment is visibly soiled?

When equipment is visibly soiled, cleaning and disinfecting it before use is essential to ensure safety and hygiene. This process involves removing dirt, debris, and any potential contaminants from the surface of the equipment, and then applying a disinfectant to eliminate pathogens. This step is crucial in preventing the spread of infections or diseases, particularly in environments like nail salons where clients' health and safety are top priorities.

Using equipment without cleaning it first, as suggested by other choices, can pose significant risks. Simply wiping with a dry cloth does not adequately remove bacteria or viruses and does not disinfect. Rinsing with water only is not effective in eliminating contaminants and does not provide the necessary protection against infections. Hence, cleaning and disinfecting visibly soiled equipment ensures compliance with health regulations and maintains a safe environment for both clients and technicians.