Which infection control method is defined as the lowest level of infection control?

Sanitation is recognized as the lowest level of infection control because it involves reducing the number of microorganisms to a safe level as determined by public health standards. This method typically includes cleaning surfaces and equipment to remove dirt, debris, and some pathogens, thus making environments safe for use. In the context of esthetics, sanitation practices ensure that tools and work areas are maintained in a way that minimizes health risks, though they do not eliminate all forms of bacteria, viruses, or spores.

Disinfection and sterilization are two methods that provide higher levels of infection control. Disinfection actively kills a significant number of pathogens but may not eliminate all spores, making it more effective than sanitation. Sterilization represents the highest level of infection prevention, completely eliminating all forms of microbial life, including spores, making it essential for critical items that enter sterile tissue.

Passive immunity, while it plays a role in the body's defense against infections, is not a method of infection control in the same way as the other options. Thus, sanitation stands out as the foundational level in infection control practices.