I am proud to be IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified. Throughout this course I learned many things that will make me a much safer and effective cleaner. My cleaning practices will go on to benefit the health and safety of people and the environment.

I learned the ways in which cleaning chemicals with harsh, dangerous ingredients negatively impact people, animals, plants, and the overall environment. I learned that there are many VOCs that exist, and that there are VOCs dangerous to humans like formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, 2-butoxyethanol, tetrachloroethylene, and acetone that are commonly found in cleaning products. I also learned about dangerous non-volatile organic compound chemicals like sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, chlorine bleach, phosphates, and quaternary ammonium compounds, all of which negatively affect the environment. And I learned that I can avoid these dangerous VOCs and dangerous non- VOC chemicals by purchasing cleaning products that have ingredients that are not dangerous to people, and that can easily break down in the environment without negatively affecting it or the life in it.

I thought the amount of information given about all the different types of dangerous VOCs and dangerous non-VOC chemicals was very interesting, informative, and useful to know. I also found it interesting that the EPA has approved natural disinfectants, like botanical and mineral based disinfectants, as I did not think they did before taking this course. I also thought it was interesting and helpful that the course utilized different ways of learning like the use of the videos, the reading material, as well as the multiple-choice questions and written requirements I had to fulfill, making it a lot easier for me to solidify my understanding of the information I was given.

Thank you IJCSA for giving me the knowledge I need to be a great green cleaning company.

Being a green cleaning company is better than being a cleaning company that uses hazardous chemicals because cleaning professional and customer safety is prioritized, the environment benefits from the company’s practices, and the surfaces being cleaned by the safer cleaning products also benefit.

Lower numbers of volatile organic compounds are released, if any in some instances, when green cleaning products are used. “Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoors. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products numbering in the thousands” (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2024). Symptoms of exposure to VOCs include headaches, nausea, and fatigue, among many others. When green cleaning products are used, cleaning professionals and your customers will not be subjected to dangerous amounts of VOCs day after day, thus protecting the health and safety of everyone the cleaning business affects.

The environment will also benefit from a company that implements green cleaning practices as opposed to a company that does not. Toxic cleaning products pollute water systems which kills aquatic life, they reduce the quality of soil which stunts plant growth, and they release toxic substances into the ozone like smog. Smog disrupts ecosystems and causes asthma and heart attacks in humans. Animals can also suffer from asthma and heart attacks due to smog. Using biodegradable, toxic free cleaning products that break down naturally will keep the environment and those that are in it safe.

A green cleaning company is better than a cleaning company that does not implement green cleaning because the products they use are not harsh on the surfaces they clean, if used correctly, extending the life of the objects being cleaned. “Plant-based ingredients are gentler on surfaces and fabrics, potentially extending the life of your clothing and furnishings” (Gall, 2024).

Green cleaning companies are more beneficial to people, the environment, and the surfaces they clean compared to cleaning companies that do not implement green cleaning. To find a cleaning company that is green cleaning certified, please visit IJCSA’s Green Cleaning Service Directory.

References

Gall, G. (2024, December 5). Eco-conscious cleaning vs. conventional cleaning: Why choose the eco-conscious option? - ECOS®. ECOS®. https://www.ecos.com/live-cleaner/eco-conscious-cleaning-vs-conventional-cleaning-why-choose-the-eco-conscious-option/

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, August 13). Volatile organic compounds” impact on indoor air quality | US EPA. US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality

Properly cleaning healthcare facilities is one of the most critical components of modern patient safety and disease prevention. Medical environments host a dense concentration of vulnerable individuals with compromised immune systems, making them highly susceptible to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). When environmental services teams utilize strict sanitizing and cross-contamination prevention protocols, they directly interrupt the transmission chain of dangerous microorganisms. Protecting patients from harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses requires a meticulous understanding of chemical contact times, high-touch surface disinfection, and specialized healthcare cleaning techniques. 

Furthermore, a clean medical facility is foundational to maintaining public trust and compliance with strict occupational health regulations. If a clinic or hospital neglects its sanitizing duties, the physical space quickly becomes a reservoir for pathogens that threaten not only patients but also doctors, nurses, and visiting family members. Implementing professional healthcare cleaning programs ensures that terminal cleaning procedures in surgical suites and general patient rooms meet the rigorous criteria necessary to keep mortality and infection rates as low as possible. 

For facilities looking to verify or upgrade their current sanitary standards, sourcing verified experts is essential. Organizations can utilize the Janitorial Service Directory (https://www.ijcsa.org/Janitorial-Service-Directory) to connect with certified teams who possess specific training in medical sanitation. Investing in properly educated cleaning staff remains the ultimate line of defense in the ongoing global fight against infectious diseases within our care spaces.

There are many reasons why people should only perform natural green cleaning, including improving air quality and the environment. “Green cleaning products are naturally derived, non-toxic, and biodegradable, meaning they have less impact on the environment. Other chemical cleaning products may contain ingredients from non-renewable sources and have toxic impacts that can hurt the world’s eco-system” (The Cleaning Authority: Benefits of Green Cleaning, n.d.). To find a cleaning company that is green cleaning certified visit the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory.

Using green cleaning products substantially cuts down and even eliminates VOCs or carbon-based chemicals from being released into the air. VOCs can be responsible for many health issues in humans including organ damage, and even links to cancer risks. Green cleaning practices are very important for indoor air quality. EPA's Office of Research and Development's “"Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) Study" (Volumes I through IV, completed in 1985) found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be 2 to 5 times higher inside homes than outside, regardless of whether the homes were located in rural or highly industrial areas”(United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2024). If everybody participates in only using green cleaning products, the reduction of VOCs would be immense and earth’s air quality would receive a major upgrade.

Other aspects of the environment would also greatly improve if everyone were to start utilizing green cleaning practices, which would mean using products that can easily break down and not negatively affect the environment. Toxic runoff from dangerous cleaning chemicals such as petroleum solvents, chlorine bleach, phosphates, and surfactants all play a negative role in diminishing the environment through toxic runoff. Negative effects include the poisoning of aquatic life, causing algal bloom that deplete the oxygen in the environment, and bioaccumulation. Ingredients in these toxic cleaners like polyvinyl alcohol, alkylphenol ethoxylates, and nonylphenol ethoxylates that stay in the environment for very long amounts of time, cause many health problems to everything and everyone.

References

The Cleaning Authority: Benefits of Green Cleaning. (n.d.). The Cleaning Authority. Retrieved September 10, 2026, from https://www.thecleaningauthority.com/blog/green-living/benefits-of-green-cleaning3/

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, August 13). Volatile organic compounds” impact on indoor air quality | US EPA. US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality

Proper cleaning in healthcare facilities is very important because many sick people, employees, and visitors are in the same building every day. Germs and viruses can easily stay on surfaces like door handles, counters, bathrooms, chairs, and patient rooms. Good healthcare cleaning helps remove these germs and helps prevent infections from spreading.

Another important part of medical cleaning is paying attention to high-touch surfaces. Cleaners should use the correct disinfectants, wear proper PPE, wash their hands, and change gloves when needed. It is also important to follow the correct contact time for disinfectants so the product has enough time to work. Proper cleaning and disinfection helps protect patients, employees, visitors, and the cleaning staff.

Healthcare facilities need cleaners who understand infection control and cross-contamination. Cleaning correctly can help reduce healthcare-associated infections and create a safer environment for everyone. Professional healthcare cleaning should always follow proper procedures and safety rules. People looking for professional cleaning services can also visit the IJCSA Janitorial Service Directory.

Great customer service in the janitorial industry means showing reliability, respect, and professionalism in every interaction. IJCSA members understand that clients trust us with their homes and businesses, so we prioritize clear communication, consistent results, and A positive attitude. By putting clients first and delivering  dependable service, we strengthen the reputation of all IJCSA proffesionals.

What sets IJCSA members apart is our commitment to going above expectations. We listen, offer solutions, and treat every job as an opportunity to demonstrate excellence. The IJCSA business directory reflects thousands of members who lead with integrity and customer focused care. When we combine quality work with genuine respect for our clients, we show why IJCSA certified companies stand out in customer service.

Acquiring the IJCSA Green Cleaning Certification and utilizing green cleaning practices and products in my company will greatly increase the health and safety of the people my cleaning services affect, as well as keep my company environmentally responsible, and profitable.

Previously, I had no idea about the negative effects everyday cleaning chemicals like ammonia and quats pose to a person’s health. Quats can irritate and damage the nose, throat, and lungs and ammonia in “low levels in the air can irritate eyes, skin, or airways, and may cause a sore throat and cough” (Ammonia, 2025). I have become aware of the positive health benefits green cleaning provides and the problems standard chemical cleaning products produce. I will protect my employees’ and clients’ health by reducing VOC's which are found in harsh chemical disinfectants by eliminating those harsh chemical disinfectants.

Utilizing green cleaning products and disposing of them correctly are extremely important for the health of people and the environment. Microfiber towels for example, are an excellent way to rid a surface of soil and bacteria. In fact, studies have shown that “microfiber cloths, when used with just water, are 98.9% effective at getting rid of bacteria from smooth surfaces. A cotton cloth or mop paired with Lysol or bleach is documented to be only 92% effective" (The Health Benefits of Microfiber, 2021). However, there is opposing information against microfiber, saying that they can shed “microplastics into waterways through everyday use and washing” (What Is Microfiber and Is It Bad for the Environment, 2024). All in all, research is still ongoing about the effects of microfiber on the environment, and I will be doing additional research to see if microfiber tools are truly worth utilizing. What is known right now however is that the EPA is strongly against the burning of plastic, which is microfiber, in order to “control emissions of particulate matter and other noxious fumes to the atmosphere and ground-level concentrations of particulate matter” (40 CFR 49.131 -- General Rule for Open Burning., 2026) So if I do end up using microfiber for my wiping towels and mops, I will definitely not burn them and dispose of these items appropriately.

Another benefit of green cleaning that did not cross my mind at first, was the fact that it can save a company money. For instance, many cleaning solutions are designed to clean specific surfaces, whereas utilizing green cleaning products allows for cleaning professionals to target a wide range of surfaces while using very few cleaning solutions. An example of this would be utilizing a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and distilled water to clean windows, shower doors, chrome, countertops, and more.

If you are looking for a cleaning company that takes employee and client safety seriously and always looks for ways to impact the environment positively, visit IJCSA’s Green Cleaning Service Directory.

References

Ammonia. (2025, May). Health.Ny.Gov. https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/chemicals/ammonia/

40 CFR 49.131 -- General rule for open burning. (2026). Ecfr.Gov. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-49/subpart-C/subject-group-ECFR31dd40b47455f3c/section-49.131

The Health Benefits of Microfiber. (2021, February 1). Mysmartinspect.Com. https://mysmartinspect.com/the-health-benefits-of-microfiber/

What is Microfiber and Is it Bad for the Environment. (2024, October 23). Blueland.Com. https://www.blueland.com/articles/is-microfiber-bad-for-the-environment

Understanding bloodborne pathogens is essential for every cleaning employee and staff member because it directly impacts health, safety, and professionalism on the job. Bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. In the cleaning industry, workers frequently handle materials and environments where exposure could occur—restrooms, trash receptacles, or post-incident cleanup sites. Without proper training and awareness, employees risk infection, illness, or even the spread of disease to others, including clients and coworkers. Knowledge of how these pathogens spread helps workers act with caution and confidence in every cleaning situation.

Equally important is understanding and following OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, which provides specific procedures to prevent exposure. Employees must know how to use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly, practice proper hand hygiene, and dispose of sharps or contaminated materials safely. Awareness also includes understanding what to do in the event of exposure—such as immediately reporting the incident, washing the affected area, and seeking medical evaluation. When staff members are trained in these procedures, they help create a workplace culture that prioritizes safety, compliance, and responsibility.

Finally, knowledge of bloodborne pathogens empowers cleaning professionals to protect not just themselves but the clients and communities they serve. A well-trained team demonstrates integrity and care, ensuring every site is not only visibly clean but also sanitized to the highest health standards. By staying educated and following OSHA guidelines, cleaning staff reduce risk, prevent cross-contamination, and uphold the reputation of their company as a trusted and safe cleaning partner. Understanding bloodborne pathogens isn’t just a compliance requirement—it’s a commitment to protecting lives every day.

Mold isn't just an eyesore — left untreated, it can damage your property and affect your family's health. If you've spotted dark spots on a wall, a musty smell after a leak, or water damage from a storm, it's time to bring in a certified mold cleaning service, not a DIY fix.

Look for a provider that's IJCSA-certified in mold remediation. Certified members are trained on EPA mold remediation guidelines, proper containment and PPE protocols, and safe cleanup procedures for everything from a small bathroom spot to full HVAC contamination. A qualified mold removal company will assess the moisture source first (mold always comes back if the water problem isn't fixed), then contain, remediate, and verify the area is safe before calling the job done.

If your mold problem is tied to a flood, storm, or water damage event, start with our Flood Damage Directory to find a certified water damage restoration service near you — many mold issues begin with water damage that wasn't dried out fast enough.

Whether you need black mold removal, mold inspection, mold testing, or full mold remediation services, search for an IJCSA-certified mold cleaning specialist in your area to get the job done right — safely, thoroughly, and with documentation you can trust.