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