Bloodborne pathogens are a great risk to sanitation employees across America. HIV, Hepatitis, HPV and numerous other diseases pose a hazard in facilities, especially in the healthcare industry. In the environmental services sector you run a risk of being exposed to blood or other bodily fluids.  It is very important to recognize the risks and have proper knowledge of the cleaning standards to mitigate the risks in the workplace. 

OSHA has developed guidelines on how to minimize the risks so employees reduce their risk of developing illnesses from exposure.   The proper knowledge of cleaning these pathogens could be the difference between life and death.   That is why the best defense is having a thorough offense and you must assume that all bodily fluids are contaminated with bloodborne pathogens.  It is important to follow proper procedures when handling laundry or throwing away trash and use properly color coded bags to separate contaminated items.

In the event of an exposure to a bloodborne pathogen, you need to contact your supervisor and follow proper procedures. It is also important to recognize the symptoms of diseases that you can be potentially exposed to so you can take get proper care.  Make sure to follow your company's protocol and don't eat or drink when you are at risk of exposure. Be sure also not to manually compress trash and avoid splashing or splattering when using sponges. Following these procedures will stop the spread of diseased and keep you safe in the work place.