Which term describes microorganisms that are generally safe to come in contact with?

The term that describes microorganisms that are generally safe to come in contact with is nonpathogenic microorganisms. These are organisms that do not cause disease in healthy individuals and often play beneficial roles in various ecosystems, including human health. For instance, many nonpathogenic bacteria are found in our normal microbiota, aiding in digestion and providing protection against pathogenic organisms.

Nonpathogenic microorganisms can also be involved in processes such as fermentation and bioremediation, contributing positively to environmental and industrial applications. Understanding the distinction between nonpathogenic and pathogenic microorganisms is fundamental in microbiology, as it helps to identify which microbes can be safely handled and which pose a risk to health.