Knowra Contamination Contamination Contamination is the presence of an unwanted substance or biological agent in a person, object, or environment. It can compromise safety, integrity, or intended use.
Cross-contamination : The transfer of contaminants from one person, object, or surface to another. Contact between contaminated and clean surfaces can carry unwanted agents into new places.
Environmental monitoring : The systematic measurement of environmental conditions and substances over time. Monitoring identifies contaminants and tracks whether their levels change.
Pollution : The introduction of harmful substances or energy into the environment. Pollution usually concerns environmental harm, while contamination can affect a single object or person.
Foodborne illness : Illness caused by consuming food contaminated with pathogens, toxins, or harmful chemicals. Contaminated food can transmit agents that cause acute or long-term illness.
Airborne transmission : The spread of infectious particles through the air, including aerosols that remain suspended. Air can transport biological contaminants beyond the surface where they originated.
Microbiological testing : Laboratory methods for detecting, identifying, or quantifying microorganisms in samples. Testing can establish whether biological contamination is present in food, water, or surfaces.
Infection : The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in a host organism. Biological contamination may expose a host without establishing infection.
Healthcare-associated infection : An infection acquired during the provision of healthcare that was not present or incubating at admission. Contamination of devices, hands, or environments can contribute to infections acquired in care.
Biofilm : A community of microorganisms attached to a surface and embedded in a self-produced matrix. Biofilms let microbial contaminants persist on surfaces and resist removal.
Water quality : The physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water that determine its suitability for use. Water contamination is assessed by measuring hazards against intended uses and safety standards.
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