There are many situations where cleaning crews may encounter substances continue blood-borne pathogens. These pathogens can cause diseases in humans, and some of these diseases can be fatal. Knowing the risks and proper handling procedures are ways to reduce the spread of infectious diseases while performing cleaning duties.

The OSHA standards were initially created for the healthcare field but were expanded to include any occupation which could reasonably be exposed to infectious materials. Cleaning employees and staff could easily be exposed working in an area where someone had thrown up or could come in contact with bodily fluids, doing laundry, or simply dealing with trash.

Following universal precautions can lessen the risk for the spread of potentially harmful or even fatal diseases. A simple break from a syringe or other infected material or entry via an open wound makes individuals susceptible. Cleaning staff is not only responsible for themselves but also limiting the exposure and spreading of disease to anyone else who would be using the facilities which need to be cleaned properly.