EXHIBIT 24(a) CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-3 No. 33-73492) of Cantel Industries, Inc. and in the related Prospectus and to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements (Form S-8 Nos. 33-73446 and 33-04495) of Cantel Industries, Inc., of our report dated September 18, 1996, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Cantel Industries, Inc. included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 31, 1996. ERNST & YOUNG LLP Princeton, New Jersey October 24, 1996