Environmental services personnel are a vital part of protecting the health and safety of patients, visitors, and staff in healthcare facilities.  It is important that they are highly trained and knowledgeable in prevention of the spread of healthcare-associated infections.  Their process in cleaning and disinfecting equipment, rooms, and other common areas within healthcare facilities is a critical part of maintaining safety.   

By following appropriate guidelines, EVS staff can provide protection from diseases such as those carried by bloodborne pathogens.  Bloodborne pathogens included, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).  Having knowledge of these pathogens and their effects is helpful to the safety measures the EVS department must utilize to protect themselves and others.

EVS workers can prevent the spread of diseases from bloodborne pathogens by knowing how to properly sanitize the environment, dispose of contaminated materials, and record any exposures to bloodborne pathogens.  It is important to train cleaning employees and staff to be aware of the products and supplies they use and how they reduce or eliminate exposure to bloodborne pathogens.  EVS employees play an important role in preventing contact with bloodborne pathogens so their education of these pathogens can help save lives.