Customer Service is Vital to any Successful Business

Customers are the heartbeat of every business and if not taken seriously, can be detrimental to the success of any business. You would think everyone would know the importance of customer service. I mean after all, we're all customers ourselves and have had our fair share of good and bad customer service experiences. If you're looking to start a business or already have one but need to master the skills of customer services, here is how we at IJCSA have mastered the skills by practicing and focusing on these essential tactics. 

Every customer is greeted with a combination of a smile and eye contact to be sure they know we are here to help and ready to engage. We listen to our customers. We know that every customer wants to be heard, and they want to know you care. This doesn't mean agreeing with them but if you listen, ask questions to better understand, and show concern this could be enough to stay, or get back on their good side. We like to acknowledge what they're saying, repeat it back to them to be sure we understand then empathize with their experience. This alone can be enough for them to stop pursuing their argument. If this isn't enough that's okay, this just means we have to be a little more creative make up for what could be a stain on our reputation if we don't right the ship. Sometimes you have to think outside the box and come to an agreement. After we've found the solution, we like to reiterate our plans to make things right with the customer to be sure this will be enough to satisfy them. Lastly, we follow up! This can be a phone call, via text, or via email. Checking in with your customers after a service or transaction can leave an impression like no other, it shows that we care... and we do! 

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   Training on bloodborne pathogens helps cleaning staff with the knowledge necessary to handle hazardous materials in a safe manner. This includes wearing gloves and other PPE, safe disposal of sharps or contaminated waste, and cleaning and disinfecting contaminated areas. Handling all blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious. A trained employee protects themselves and others.

     Having clear organization and color coding help employees handle and discard potentially hazardous waste. Providing proper disinfectant to sanitize contaminated areas.

     Bloodborne pathogens are very dangerous diseases that cleaners need to be well informed about. Carelessness and ignorance can lead to significant problems. Teams need to regularly refresh their learning about contaminants and diseases.

Looking for a cleaning service that’s effective, trustworthy, and eco-conscious? You’re in the right place. IJCSA Members who are Green Cleaning Certified are trained to deliver sparkling clean spaces using safe, non-toxic, and environmentally responsible methods. Whether you need residential or commercial cleaning, our members understand the importance of reducing harsh chemical exposure while still getting the job done right. When you choose green cleaning, you’re not just investing in a clean home or office—you’re also helping protect your health, your loved ones, and the planet.

Many traditional cleaning products contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, trigger allergies, or pollute the air inside your home or workplace. Our IJCSA Green Cleaning professionals use biodegradable products and sustainable practices that meet industry standards without compromising on quality. From schools and offices to medical buildings and homes, our members are committed to greener, safer solutions. It's cleaning you can feel good about—inside and out.

Ready to take the next step toward a healthier environment? Visit the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory to find a certified provider near you. Experience the difference of working with professionals who care about your space and the world we share. Make the green choice today—you’ll be glad you did.

In the cleaning and janitorial industry, employees are often on the front lines of maintaining safe and sanitary environments. One of the most critical areas of knowledge for cleaning staff is understanding bloodborne pathogens (BBPs). These are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause serious diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. Cleaning employees may encounter blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) while performing tasks like cleaning restrooms, handling trash, or responding to accidents involving bodily fluids. Without proper training and awareness, workers may inadvertently expose themselves or others to dangerous infections.

Educating cleaning staff about bloodborne pathogens is not only a safety measure—it's a regulatory requirement. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates BBP training for employees who could reasonably anticipate contact with blood or OPIM as part of their job duties. Proper training ensures that employees know how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), identify potential hazards, and follow protocols for safely cleaning and disposing of biohazardous materials. It also teaches the importance of proper hand hygiene, the use of disinfectants, and the procedures for reporting exposures or injuries.

Beyond regulatory compliance, BBP education fosters a culture of safety and professionalism within the workplace. When cleaning staff are confident and informed, they are more likely to handle hazardous situations correctly, reducing liability for employers and contributing to public health. Providing this training demonstrates an organization’s commitment to employee well-being and reinforces the importance of their role in maintaining clean and safe environments. Ultimately, ensuring that cleaning employees understand and respect the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens is a crucial step in protecting everyone who enters a facility.

When it comes to janitorial and cleaning services, exceptional customer service isn’t just a bonus, it’s a necessity. Members of the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) understand this principle deeply. We are committed to providing reliable, personalized service that meets the unique needs of each client. Whether it’s a routine office cleaning, a specialized medical facility sanitation, or a post-construction cleanup, IJCSA members approach every job with professionalism and care. Our dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in their attention to detail, punctuality, and consistent communication.

What sets IJCSA members apart is their proactive approach to customer service. We don’t just wait for issues to arise; we anticipate client needs and address them promptly. This commitment is backed by comprehensive training and certification programs, ensuring that every team member is equipped with the skills and knowledge to deliver top-notch service. By choosing an IJCSA-certified cleaning company, you’re partnering with professionals who prioritize your satisfaction and work tirelessly to maintain a clean and healthy environment for you. To find a trusted cleaning service near you, explore the IJCSA Business Directory.

Why Is Properly Cleaning Healthcare Facilities So Important?

Proper cleaning in healthcare facilities is not just about appearances — it is a critical part of infection prevention and patient safety. Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other care environments are unique because they house people who are already sick or have weakened immune systems. These patients are much more vulnerable to infections, which means germs that might be harmless in the community can become deadly in a healthcare setting. By ensuring that surfaces, equipment, and patient areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected, facilities can significantly reduce the spread of harmful pathogens such as MRSA, C. difficile, influenza, and other healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Another key reason cleaning is so important is that it removes both visible dirt and invisible threats. Germs often hide in organic matter such as blood, body fluids, or dust. If these contaminants remain on surfaces, disinfectants may not work effectively. Thorough cleaning ensures that disinfectants can do their job, providing an extra layer of protection. High-touch surfaces like bed rails, doorknobs, call buttons, and light switches are especially important to target, since these are touched frequently by patients, staff, and visitors, making them hotspots for germ transmission.

Proper cleaning also protects healthcare workers and visitors. Doctors, nurses, cleaning staff, and family members are all at risk of exposure when an environment is not maintained properly. OSHA and CDC guidelines highlight the importance of cleaning and disinfection not only for compliance, but also to create a safe, reassuring environment where patients feel confident in their care. A clean facility also reflects professionalism and builds trust with the public. In short, proper cleaning is essential for breaking the chain of infection, ensuring regulatory compliance, and safeguarding the health of everyone who enters a healthcare environment.

Cleaning employees are the first line of defense in protecting staff and the general team in their company or organization. Theire knowledge of bloodborne pathogens transmission and protection methods help to protect themselves and everyone around them.

Especially, in Healthcare environment staffs have very important roles in protection of themselves by following universal precaution standards and by following protective practices according to OSHA standards.

In general, cleaning employees and staff who have direct exposure can take this simple assumption; in all times assume all blood and fluids are contaminated.

At Second Nature Cleaning, using non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products is our top priority. We know that avoiding chemical cleaners will benefit our company, clients, and environment in many ways. 

Benefits to our company and employees:

Green cleaning makes a cleaning business unique because it goes against the traditional norm of using chemical cleaners. While chemical cleaners can be effective at first, they greatly impact the health of those that clean with them. Using green cleaners protects our employees because they always know what ingredients they are being exposed to. It boosts employee morale because they trust that their health is a top priority, and will not be sacrificed for an effective clean. 

Green cleaning will benefit Second Nature Cleaning because it shows our dedication to protecting our environment. As a cleaning company in Montana, we take great pride in our green spaces and riverways. In order to protect the future of our climate, we must turn to eco-friendly practices in the service industry. Rather than being a company that emits chemicals and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, we are setting ourselves up for success to function sustainably. 

Benefits to our clients:

Green cleaning is healthy in nature because it reduces our client’s exposure to toxic chemicals and VOCs. We pride ourselves in using ingredients that our clients can pronounce and understand- none of the funky chemicals with long names and known health implications. 

Likewise, using non-toxic cleaners benefits clients that may have allergies, sensitivities to artificial fragrances, or are concerned about the ingredients used around their pets and children. Our cleaning services are transparent, and our clients know they are receiving intentional care in their homes that values their health and safety. 

Benefits to our planet:

Green cleaning benefits our employees, company, and clients, and also protects the future of our planet. In a world where pollution is at an all-time high, and where climate fluctuations are impacting communities globally, it is now more important than ever that we use eco-friendly cleaning solutions that preserve our environment. 

Chemical cleaners are energy-intensive, requiring petroleum-based ingredients that are toxic to human and environmental health. Similarly, when toxic cleaners are used, they enter our water ways and pollute green spaces. Toxic chemicals can linger in our natural environments, hurting flora and fauna. By using non-toxic cleaning methods at Second Nature Cleaning, we are showing our care for the environment and future generations.

In a world where human and environmental health is being threatened- using safe and non-toxic cleaners has never been more important. Not only are non-toxic cleaners better for your health, they are kind to our green spaces. Green cleaning is increasing in popularity, and the IJCSA Certified Green Cleaning program ensures that your cleaners are giving your home the eco-friendly refresh that it deserves.

You can rest assured that green cleaning will improve the atmosphere of your home without the harmful toxins that come with chemical cleaners, commonly released in the form of VOCs (volatile organic chemicals). VOCs contribute to throat and lung irritation, causing pollution of the breathing air in your home. Likewise, chemical cleaners are often petroleum-based, meaning they contain fossil fuels in their ingredients which are energy-intensive. Traditional cleaners are filled with countless chemicals that will inevitably end up in our waterways after usage–it is best to use eco-friendly ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils to clean your home. 

Looking for a safe and environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical cleaners? All IJCSA Green Cleaning Certified members are trained to use the most effective cleaning methods in your home. They are dedicated to using biodegradable, plant-based cleaners that are safe for everyone including kids and pets! Visit the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory to find green cleaners near you. You will be pleased to find trusted professionals that care about your health, as well as the planet’s health.

In our fast-paced society, the work of janitors and janitorial staff often goes unnoticed—yet it is absolutely essential to the smooth functioning of our daily lives. Whether it’s in schools, offices, hospitals, or commercial establishments, janitorial staff are the backbone of hygiene and sanitation. They ensure that the spaces we occupy remain clean, safe, and healthy, reducing the spread of germs and contributing to our overall well-being. Without their consistent efforts, workplaces and public environments would quickly become unhygienic and unsafe, affecting productivity, health, and morale.

Janitorial services encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including commercial cleaning, waste management, sanitization, floor care, and restocking essential supplies. In today’s world, where public health awareness has risen sharply due to global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of skilled janitorial staff has become more evident than ever. Businesses rely on professional janitorial companies not just for aesthetics, but for creating a safe and welcoming environment for employees and customers. High-traffic areas such as restrooms, breakrooms, and lobbies require frequent attention to maintain standards of cleanliness and reduce the risk of illness.

For those looking to connect with reliable janitorial services, the Janitorial Directory serves as a valuable resource. It offers an extensive listing of commercial cleaning providers across various industries, making it easy to find trusted professionals who specialize in maintaining clean and sanitary environments. Whether you're a business owner, property manager, or facility director, utilizing this directory ensures that you’re partnering with qualified experts committed to cleanliness and safety. Janitors are more than just maintenance staff—they are vital custodians of public health and deserve recognition for their often-overlooked contributions to society.