Definition
The unintended transfer of substances, materials, microorganisms or other contaminants between products, processes or areas.
Human Explanation
It occurs when material from one activity affects another product, process or area.
Why it Matters
It may impair quality, create safety hazards and cause regulatory nonconformity.
Conceptual Boundary
Cross-Contamination may be chemical, biological or physical and can result from process or organisational weaknesses.
Practical Perspective
Risk reduction can combine process design, segregation, cleaning, controlled flows and monitoring.