What is the primary focus of the Environmental Protection Agency?

Study for the Dental Hygiene Concepts Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Get exam-ready with our comprehensive guide!

The primary focus of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is indeed on ensuring the safety of disinfectants and regulating medical waste. This agency is specifically tasked with protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations based on environmental laws passed by Congress. An essential part of this role involves evaluating and approving disinfectants and other chemicals to ensure they are safe for public use.

Additionally, the EPA oversees the management of medical waste, which is critical for preventing contamination and protecting both public health and the environment. This regulation is vital, given the potential hazards associated with improperly disposed medical waste, which can lead to infections and environmental pollution.

While the other choices all relate to important areas of public health and safety, they fall outside the primary jurisdiction of the EPA. For instance, regulating food safety typically falls under the purview of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while protecting worker safety is primarily the responsibility of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Public health laws, although significant, are usually developed and enforced by various health departments and agencies rather than the EPA directly.

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