Glossary beginning with D

D

Danger Zone

The dangerous range of temperature between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F when most bacteria can grow and reproduce rapidly to infective doses. Those areas most prone to breakdowns in good handwashing and gloving practices.

Deviation

Failure to meet any critical limit.

Diarrhea

Three or more loose stools within a 24-hour period. Bacteria, parasites or viruses can cause diarrhea.

Dilution

The weakening of liquids, usually by adding water. Cleaning agents are diluted from concentrates to useable strengths.

Dirty Dozen

A survey of a facility's most likely harbors of bacteria and viruses that could lead to an illness outbreak; most often found in the kitchen, restrooms and customer service areas.

Disinfection

The reduction (by chemicals or physical methods) of the number of microorganisms in the environment, to a level safe for food preparation and consumption.

Doffing

Or doff, the act of removing gloves from hands.

Donning

Or don, the act of putting gloves on hands.

Dormant

"Asleep." Most bacteria stop growth and activity below 40 degrees F. They return to activity and growth when they warm up.