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Germicides are chemical agents that, as antiseptics, kill microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) on the surface of skin or other living tissues and as disinfectants kill microorganisms on nonliving surfaces.

ROC STATUS:Known to be a human carcinogen since 2011

Disinfectants and sanitizers are antimicrobial agents. A “disinfectant” destroys pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms, such as bacteria) but not spores and not all viruses. A “sanitizer” reduces the number of harmful microorganisms, or germs, so that they are not an infectious hazard. Disinfection and sanitization are effective only if a surface area is clean. “Clean” means that a surface has been cleared of soil, dust, organic matter (such as blood or stool), and microorganisms. Cleaning usually can remove large amounts of harmful microorganisms, but it usually does not kill them and does not disinfect or sanitize surfaces.