The following definitions pertain to WAC 246-817-601 through 246-817-660 which supersede WAC 246-816-701 through 246-816-740 which became effective May 15, 1992.

"Communicable diseases" means an illness caused by an infectious agent which can be transmitted from one person, animal, or object to another person by direct or indirect means including transmission via an intermediate host or vector, food, water or air.

"Decontamination" means the use of physical or chemical means to remove, inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point where they are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.

"Direct care staff" are the dental staff who directly provide dental care to patients.

"Sterilize" means the use of a physical or chemical procedure to destroy all microbial life including highly resistant bacterial endospores.