Cleaning employees and staff should have sufficient knowledge about bloodborne pathogens to ensure that they do not put themselves and others at risk when handling. Bloodborne pathogens are pathogenic micro-organisms present in human blood that can cause disease to others if they come in contact. Having an understanding of how to handle items that may have been pre-exposed to blood or other body fluids can be a life or death situation, as such, care should be taken when handling these items to minimize or prevent infection.

Cleaning employees and staff should know how to clean up after a spill, change bed linens or dispose of items in a bin in a way that minimize their exposure to the risk. The Center for Disease Prevention and Control established “Universal Precaution” which states that blood and certain body fluids from patient be treated as potentially infectious and that the infection control precaution be taken to minimize the risk of exposure. This approach has been taken by OSHA in its Bloodborne Standard.

The best defence is an offense. Hence, having knowledge of how to do what needs to be done is critical. Always follow Universal Precaution; follow proper protection and cleanup plan. In addition, bags or containers should be properly labelled and colour-coded red or orange. Wear the appropriate protective gear or PPE. Cleanup well by disinfecting the exposed areas. Being trained in knowing what to do is essential in performing the task safely and effectively.