Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease in humans. They are found in human blood and other bodily fluids, such as saliva, semen, and vaginal fluids. Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through contact with blood or other bodily fluids, such as through a needlestick injury or a cut on the skin.

Janitors are at an increased risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens because they may come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids while cleaning up accidents or spills. For example, a janitor might clean up a blood spill in a hospital or a school.

It is important for janitorial staff to know about bloodborne pathogens so that they can take steps to protect themselves from exposure. Some of the things that janitorial staff can do to protect themselves from exposure to bloodborne pathogens include:

• Wearing gloves, gowns, and masks when cleaning up blood or other bodily fluids.
• Using proper cleaning procedures, such as using bleach to disinfect surfaces that have been contaminated with blood or other bodily fluids.
• Reporting any exposure to blood or other bodily fluids to their supervisor immediately.

By taking these steps, janitorial staff can help to protect themselves from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and prevent the spread of disease.

In addition to the above, here are some other things that janitorial staff can do to protect themselves from exposure to bloodborne pathogens:

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis B.
• Wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning up blood or other bodily fluids.
• Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or applying cosmetics while cleaning up blood or other bodily fluids.
• Dispose of sharps properly.
• Report any injuries or exposures to their supervisor immediately.