So I was walking the other day, and this guy comes to me and says "Hey! You! Yeah you with that stupid hat, I got to tell you something!". And I says to him "What is it?", and he shouts to me: "You seem like the type who doesn't know how to take care of yourself properly, bring me to your house before I smack ya!". Now, I was quite appalled by this man's utter rudeness towards me, but before I could object he hit me upside the head with such a force that I was knocked out cold for a while. I woke up, and found myself and the strange man inside my house, he must have used my license to find my address.

"Wake up you!" he screamed again, directly into my ear this time. I was especially irritated this time, I worked up all the courage I had and shouted "What!". "What is it you want!". "You want my belongings, my money, my life, then take them!". "Take them all you fiend, see if I care!" I stared at the man in defiance, expecting the worst to come: but I was then met with a calm, more sympathetic expression. He had the eyes of a poet, a kind, gentle man who could only want what it best for me. My lip quivered as he bent down to whisper in my ear, "It looks like you got some rather musky carpets there, have you not cleaned them in a while?"

I held back tears, an attempt to hide the shallow soul of the woman I had become, but I abandoned the thought as I embraced his shoulder, letting out all my suppressed emotions. I will never forget the words he said to me as he comforted me. "You know, I am a properly trained IJCSA member, that means I know how to deal with this sort of stuff, you get me?" I nodded my head in understanding, still clutching his shoulder for support. He produced a deep sigh, and said: "If you were to get someone who is not trained in cleaning carpets well to clean yours, they could leave all sorts of unseen problems that could later result in mold, leaving it in a state of disrepair more significant than before." I faced the man, and leant in to compress my lips into his, and kissed the man who you call your father today.

Cleaning employees and staff are often on the frontline of workplace safety and hygiene, encountering situations where exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials is possible. Understanding bloodborne pathogens—such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV—is crucial for their well-being and for preventing the spread of infectious diseases in various environments, including schools, offices, hospitals, and public facilities. Knowledge of bloodborne pathogens equips staff with the ability to recognize hazards, respond appropriately, and minimize risks.

Comprehensive training on bloodborne pathogens helps staff to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), safely handle and dispose of contaminated materials, and follow correct decontamination procedures. Without proper knowledge and training, cleaning personnel may inadvertently expose themselves or others to infectious agents, leading not only to personal health risks but also to potential outbreaks in the wider community. Knowing the correct steps to take in the event of a spill or exposure incident ensures a swift and effective response, minimizing potential harm.

Furthermore, employers are legally required in many regions to provide bloodborne pathogen training under workplace safety laws such as OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. By investing in education and cultivating a culture of safety, organizations demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare and public health. Ultimately, well-informed cleaning staff are essential guardians of sanitation, helping to maintain safe environments and reinforcing the overall effectiveness of workplace safety program.

Maintaining a safe and healthy workplace begins with ensuring that cleaning employees are properly trained in recognizing and handling bloodborne pathogens. These harmful microorganisms—such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C—can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or other potentially infectious materials. Cleaning staff, who often work in environments where accidental exposure is possible, must understand how these pathogens spread and what precautions are necessary to protect themselves and others.

Equally important is the role of management in supporting this knowledge and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Employers are responsible for providing thorough training, proper personal protective equipment (PPE), written exposure-control plans, and easy access to materials like disinfectants and spill kits. When management prioritizes bloodborne pathogen awareness, it helps create a culture of safety that reduces workplace risk and builds employee confidence. This not only protects the workforce but also reduces liability and helps the organization meet OSHA requirements.

By working together, cleaning employees and management can significantly minimize the dangers associated with bloodborne pathogens. Proper training, clear communication, and ongoing reinforcement of safety procedures ensure that everyone understands how to respond to potential exposures. Ultimately, this shared responsibility promotes a safer work environment, enhances public health, and reinforces the professionalism and preparedness of cleaning staff.

We all know that we need to vacuum our carpets to remove dirt and dust, but that only accomplishes so much. Dirt, oils, and germs embed deeply in the carpet fibers, and a more thorough cleaning is required to get this out. Cheap rentals offer an option, but they come with problems like low power, ineffective chemicals, and even dirt and grime from other people's homes.

Members of the IJCSA have the solution to your dirty carpets. With industry-leading training and top-quality standards, these professionals will leave you with carpets clean and looking their best.

As the founder and CEO of AtomClean LLC, I believe understanding bloodborne pathogens is not optional knowledge for cleaning professionals—it is foundational to their safety, their credibility, and the health of every facility they serve. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms found in blood and certain bodily fluids that can cause serious, life-altering illnesses such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. In many environments—schools, healthcare facilities, public buildings, restrooms, and workplaces—custodial professionals are often the first to respond to incidents involving blood or bodily fluids. Without proper training, what appears to be a routine cleanup can quickly become a significant health risk. Awareness empowers staff to recognize hazards, evaluate risk, and take the right precautions before exposure ever occurs.

Effective education also reinforces safe work practices and strengthens compliance with OSHA standards. When custodial staff understand how bloodborne pathogens are transmitted, safety protocols stop feeling like rules and start making sense. Proper use of personal protective equipment, correct cleaning and disinfection methods, and safe handling and disposal of contaminated materials become habits—not afterthoughts. Training replaces uncertainty and fear with confidence and consistency. A well-trained employee is more likely to follow procedures correctly, report incidents promptly, and protect both themselves and the people who occupy the space.

Beyond safety and compliance, bloodborne pathogen training elevates the professionalism of the custodial workforce. It reinforces an essential truth: this work is skilled, technical, and directly tied to public health. Facilities benefit through reduced liability, fewer workplace injuries, and greater trust from staff, students, patients, and the public. For cleaning professionals, this knowledge builds pride, accountability, and career readiness. When employees understand the “why” behind safety protocols, they become active partners in maintaining healthy environments—protecting lives while upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and care.

Understanding bloodborne pathogens is essential for cleaning employees and staff who may come into contact with bodily fluids in the workplace. Bloodborne pathogens, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, can pose serious health risks if proper precautions are not taken. By being educated on how these pathogens are transmitted, cleaning professionals can take the necessary steps to protect themselves and others from potential exposure, ensuring a safer work environment for everyone.

Proper training on bloodborne pathogens equips cleaning staff with the knowledge to handle contaminated materials safely and effectively. This includes understanding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper disposal of sharps and biohazard waste, and the correct procedures for cleaning and disinfecting affected areas. When employees are trained to follow OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, they not only reduce the risk of infection but also demonstrate professionalism and compliance with industry safety regulations.

In addition to protecting individual workers, awareness of bloodborne pathogens promotes a culture of safety and responsibility within the organization. When cleaning staff are confident in their ability to manage potential hazards, it enhances overall workplace hygiene and reduces liability for employers. Investing in bloodborne pathogen training is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a vital component of maintaining a healthy, safe, and trustworthy cleaning operation.

Great customer service in the janitorial and cleaning industry isn’t about flashy slogans or the lowest price—it’s about showing up when you say you will, doing the job right the first time, and treating every client’s facility like it’s your own. It means the crew arrives on time, in uniform, with a smile and the right equipment; they notice the little things (fingerprints on the break-room microwave, scuffs on the baseboards, a trash liner that needs replacing before it overflows) and fix them without being asked. It’s the office manager who can text the owner at 8 p.m. because the carpet got flooded and gets an immediate “On our way” instead of voicemail. It’s transparent billing with no hidden fees, proactive communication when weather delays a window cleaning, and follow-up calls to make sure the new green cleaning products are performing as promised. Above all, it’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing the people who hold the keys to your building are trustworthy, insured, background-checked, and genuinely care about the impression your space makes on your employees and customers.

That level of service is exactly what you’ll find with every member of the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA). Our association members are independently owned cleaning companies that have committed to the highest standards of training, ethics, and performance. From coast to coast, IJCSA contractors deliver consistent, professional results backed by ongoing education, shared best practices, and a culture that puts the client first. Whether you need nightly office cleaning, daycare disinfection, medical facility sanitation, or post-construction cleanup, you can trust an IJCSA member to get it done right. See the difference for yourself—browse our nationwide directory and connect with a vetted, top-tier janitorial provider in your area today:

https://www.ijcsa.org/business-directory

Your building deserves the best. Choose an IJCSA member and experience great customer service, every single day.

How many times has it happened to you? How many times have you received such poor customer service that it left an impression? How long did you wait until you walked out? How many people did you tell about how awful that company was? 

Your customers are your life, and ensuring their satisfied gives your business a long life, but where can you find businesses that know this? Where can you find companies to do business with which embody good customer service, dedication to quality, and empathic complaint resolution?

https://www.ijcsa.org/Find-A-Cleaning-Service-Janitorial-Service

As I continue to grow and enhance the services offered through my cleaning business, implementing a carpet cleaning program is a top priority. Carpets and rugs are not only a major part of many homes and businesses, but they also act as filters that trap dust, allergens, and bacteria over time. Without proper maintenance, these contaminants can build up and negatively affect indoor air quality and overall cleanliness. By offering certified carpet and rug cleaning services, I aim to provide clients with a full-service solution that addresses deep cleaning needs in a safe, effective, and professional way. Through my training and certification with the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA), I’m equipped with the knowledge and best practices to deliver superior results using safe chemicals, proper equipment, and proven cleaning methods.

The value of having carpets cleaned by IJCSA-certified members goes far beyond appearance. Certified professionals understand the science behind different carpet fibers, stains, and cleaning agents, ensuring that the right approach is taken for each job. This reduces the risk of damage and extends the life of carpets—saving clients money in the long run. Additionally, a certified technician ensures that cleaning practices are safe for people, pets, and the environment, which is especially important in homes, schools, and healthcare settings. For businesses, professionally maintained carpets create a cleaner, more welcoming atmosphere for customers and employees alike. When customers choose an IJCSA-certified carpet cleaner, they can feel confident they’re hiring someone who is trained, knowledgeable, and committed to delivering excellent results.

Great customer service is the heartbeat of every successful cleaning program—and no one delivers it better than certified members of the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA). Our members are Highly trained, thoroughly vetted, and genuinely committed to putting customers and their needs first. From clear, friendly communication to reliable and convenient scheduling and consistent results, IJCSA Members take pride in listening to client needs and providing dependable, high-quality service every single time.

At IJCSA, exceptional customer care is not an option—it’s our standard. Whatever your needs, carpet cleaning, janitorial services, or full facility maintenance, our members go above and beyond to ensure complete satisfaction. To find a trusted, customer-focused cleaning professional in your area, visit the IJCSA Business Directory: www.ijcsa.org/Business-Directory.