In the cleaning industry, employees and staff often work in environments where exposure to potentially infectious materials is possible. Bloodborne pathogens—such as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV)—are microorganisms found in human blood and certain body fluids that can cause serious illness or death. Cleaning professionals may encounter blood, vomit, urine, or other biohazards in restrooms, healthcare facilities, or even public spaces. Without proper training and precautions, these exposures can occur during routine tasks, placing both the employee and others at risk. Understanding what bloodborne pathogens are, how they are transmitted, and the proper safety measures to take is not only an OSHA requirement but a crucial part of protecting workers’ health and maintaining a safe workplace.

Training in bloodborne pathogen safety empowers cleaning staff to recognize potentially hazardous situations and respond appropriately. This includes learning to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, as well as mastering safe work practices like proper disposal of sharps, cleaning bodily fluid spills with approved disinfectants, and following strict handwashing protocols. In addition, employees must be familiar with the company’s Exposure Control Plan and know what steps to take if an exposure incident occurs, including reporting it immediately and seeking medical evaluation. This knowledge ensures that risks are minimized and that employees are confident and prepared when faced with biohazard cleanup tasks.

Beyond compliance, fostering a culture of awareness about bloodborne pathogens demonstrates a company’s commitment to the well-being of its staff and clients. Cleaning companies that prioritize safety through comprehensive training and ongoing refresher courses build trust with their employees, customers, and the community. Clients feel more secure knowing the cleaning staff entering their facilities are equipped to handle biohazard situations professionally and safely. Ultimately, understanding and preventing bloodborne pathogen exposure is not just a regulatory obligation—it’s a moral responsibility that protects lives, promotes health, and elevates the professionalism of the cleaning industry.

Looking for a trustworthy, professional home cleaning service that delivers consistent results? IJCSA members offer top tier residential cleaning services with a reputation built on excellence, reliability and customer satisfaction. Whether you need weekly housekeeping, deep cleaning, or move-in/move-out services, IJCSA members are trained, certified and insured to keep your home looking it's best- so you can relax and have peace of mind. 

  Every home is different and so are your cleaning needs. IJCSA cleaning professionals use industry approved techniques and eco friendly products to provide spotless kitchens, shining bathrooms and dust free living spaces. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer service ensure that your home is not just clean, but truly cared for. From one time house cleaning to recurring maid services, IJCSA members tailor every service to your lifestyle and expectations. 

  Ready to find the right cleaning company for your home? Visit the IJCSA Residential Cleaning Directory to browse qualified home cleaning and maid service providers in your area. With IJCSA, you can trust that your house is in the hands of certified professionals who prioritize quality, safety, and your satisfaction. Clean homes start here! 

Maintaining a clean and sanitary residential environment is essential for health and safety, especially when dealing with the potential presence of bloodborne pathogens. These pathogens—such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C—can be transmitted through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids. Even small amounts left behind on surfaces can pose significant risks if not properly disinfected. That’s why thorough and cautious cleaning practices are not just important—they are critical to protecting residents, visitors, and anyone who enters the home.

Proper residential cleaning in situations where blood or bodily fluids are involved requires specialized knowledge, tools, and procedures. Standard household cleaning supplies and methods may not be sufficient to fully eliminate harmful pathogens. Instead, professional-grade disinfectants, protective equipment, and an understanding of containment protocols are necessary to safely restore the area. Ignoring these standards can lead to long-term contamination or even legal consequences in certain cases, especially in rental or managed properties.

Erica at 51NshoreRd LLC is highly experienced in handling these sensitive cleaning situations with care, discretion, and expertise. She understands the importance of using OSHA-compliant procedures and maintaining the highest standards of sanitation to ensure that all spaces are thoroughly decontaminated and safe. With a deep commitment to health, safety, and client trust, Erica provides peace of mind for residents who need more than just surface-level cleaning—they need a professional who truly knows how to handle biohazard risks with precision and respect.

If you’re looking for a trusted carpet cleaning service, choosing an IJCSA-certified professional is the smartest choice you can make. Our members are trained in the proper techniques for carpet and rug cleaning, using safe and effective methods that remove dirt, stains, and allergens without damaging your flooring. Whether it’s for your home, office, or rental property, IJCSA members provide high-quality service with care and professionalism. Find a certified carpet cleaning expert near you by visiting the IJCSA Carpet Cleaning Directory today and experience the difference a certified cleaner can make!

As I continue building my cleaning company, one of the next services I’m planning to add is carpet and rug cleaning. I’ve noticed that a lot of my clients—especially in residential homes and Airbnb rentals—ask about this regularly. It just makes sense to offer it all in one place. My goal is to get trained and certified through the IJCSA so I can offer carpet cleaning that’s not only effective, but also safe for families, pets, and the environment. I want my clients to feel confident knowing their carpets are being cleaned by someone who actually understands the products, the process, and the potential risks of doing it wrong.

The benefit of hiring an IJCSA-certified cleaner goes beyond just getting a surface-level clean. Certified professionals are trained to treat different types of carpet fibers, know which chemicals are safe to use, and how to remove deep-set dirt and allergens without damaging the material. Especially for clients with kids, pets, or allergies, this kind of care can make a huge difference. Having a professional who’s knowledgeable, insured, and trained also means peace of mind—you’re not just paying for a service, you’re investing in quality and safety. That’s exactly the standard I want to bring to my clients as I grow my business.

PLS OneCleaning Solution has established a comprehensive and fully integrated green cleaning program that is implemented on a daily basis across all operations. This program is not a specialty or premium service, but a core value embedded into the company’s identity and every cleaning routine. The following report details, step by step, how this green cleaning program is executed daily, based on the company's alignment with the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) Green Cleaning Certification standards and adherence to international management systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 31000.

1. Exclusive Use of Certified Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Each day, cleaning personnel begin their tasks using only non-toxic, biodegradable, and eco-friendly cleaning agents 5. These products are rigorously vetted to ensure compliance with recognized environmental safety benchmarks, including standards akin to the U.S. EPA’s Safer Choice Program and Green Seal certifications 16.

The company has fully phased out cleaning products containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are known to contribute to indoor air pollution and health risks 5. Instead, only approved formulations such as concentrated, plant-based, or low-impact chemical alternatives, are used. Although specific product brands are not disclosed in the available documentation, industry-standard alternatives such as Simple Green, ECOS, or other EPA-recognized products may serve as practical examples of the types of solutions used. 

All cleaning supplies are pre-approved under IJCSA protocols that mandate environmentally responsible chemical selection, ensuring that every product introduced into a client’s space meets stringent sustainability criteria. 

2. Daily Application of Advanced Cleaning Tools and Techniques

PLS OneCleaning Solution integrates eco-conscious tools into daily operations to maximize cleaning efficacy while minimizing environmental impact.

2.1 Microfiber Cleaning Technology

Microfiber cloths and mops are used universally across all sites. These materials are highly effective at trapping dust, bacteria, and particulates using only water or minimal cleaning solution, reducing chemical consumption by up to 90% compared to traditional methods. Employees are trained to use color-coded microfiber systems to prevent cross-contamination between areas such as restrooms, kitchens, and offices.

2.2 High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filter Vacuums

Daily vacuuming operations employ vacuums equipped with HEPA filters, which capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This is critical for maintaining indoor air quality, particularly in environments with sensitive occupants such as schools, healthcare facilities, or allergy-prone individuals. The use of HEPA vacuuming is not optional but a standard requirement in all cleaning routines.

Additionally, equipment is maintained daily according to manufacturer and IJCSA guidelines to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.

3. Mandatory Use of IJCSA-Approved Green Cleaning Methods by Trained Staff

3.1 Daily Execution of Trained Protocols

Every employee at PLS OneCleaning Solution is required to undergo 5–6 hours of initial training in IJCSA-approved green cleaning methods, with annual recertification to ensure continual compliance with updated environmental and safety standards 1. These methods cover proper dilution ratios, application techniques, dwell times, and safe disposal procedures all of which are enforced daily.

Training includes specific instruction on minimizing water waste, chemical overuse, and cross-contamination risks. Employees are expected to follow these procedures as part of their daily route sheets and checklists.

3.2 Certified Green Cleaning Professionals

The company employs IJCSA Certified Green Cleaning Professionals who have completed rigorous training in sustainable practices, non-toxic product selection, and environmentally responsible waste handling. These professionals serve as team leads and mentors, ensuring that all staff apply green principles correctly during every shift.

4. Integration into Daily Workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

4.1 Embedded Sustainable Protocols

Green cleaning is not a supplemental task but fully integrated into standard operating procedures for all cleaning activities. including restroom sanitation, floor maintenance, dusting, and trash removal. Each SOP includes environmental compliance checkpoints, ensuring that best practices are followed consistently.

Daily cleaning checklists include specific prompts such as:

• Verify use of green-certified product.
• Confirm microfiber cloth was used and properly laundered.
• HEPA vacuum used in all carpeted areas.
  These tools ensure accountability and consistency across shifts and locations.

4.2 Supervisory Verification

Team supervisors conduct daily walkthroughs at client sites to verify compliance with green protocols. They use digital auditing tools to log findings in real time, flag deviations, and provide immediate feedback to cleaning staff. This ensures that green standards are upheld every day, not just during periodic audits.

5. Ongoing Performance Reviews and Regular Audits

5.1 Daily Performance Monitoring

While comprehensive site audits are conducted regularly, daily performance is reviewed through supervisor checks and automated reporting systems. These reviews assess both quality of service and adherence to green protocols.

Data from these reviews are analyzed weekly and integrated into quality improvement cycles aligned with ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) standards. This allows PLS OneCleaning Solution to continuously refine its green cleaning practices.

5.2 Full Compliance Audits

In addition to daily checks, formal audits are conducted monthly or quarterly, depending on client contracts and service level agreements. These audits evaluate compliance with IJCSA certification requirements and may include third-party validation. Audit results are used to update training materials, replace underperforming products, and optimize workflows.

Clients are provided with green cleaning certification documentation upon request, reinforcing transparency and trust.

6. Universal and Equitable Service Delivery

PLS OneCleaning Solution applies its green cleaning standards uniformly to every client. Whether a small office or a large commercial facility, all locations receive the same level of environmentally responsible service. This universal application reflects the company's core commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

There is no “standard tier” that uses conventional chemicals and a “premium tier” that uses green products. Instead, the green cleaning program is the baseline standard for all work.

Conclusion

PLS OneCleaning Solution ensures the daily implementation of its green cleaning program through a holistic, standards-driven approach. By combining certified eco-friendly products, advanced microfiber and HEPA technologies, mandatory IJCSA-trained personnel, embedded standard operating procedures, and continuous monitoring via daily and formal audits, the company delivers consistent, sustainable, and high-quality cleaning services.

This program is fully aligned with internationally recognized standards including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 31000, and is verified through IJCSA certification, ensuring that green principles are not just claimed, but practiced each and every day. The green cleaning program is not an added feature—it is the foundation of how the company operates.

Green cleaning isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it’s about protecting the health of our families, pets, wildlife, and the planet as a whole. A lot of the traditional cleaning products we’re used to contain harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good. They might get rid of dirt and germs, but they also release toxins into the air we breathe and the water we use. These substances can irritate our skin, trigger allergies, harm animals, and pollute the environment. Green cleaning, on the other hand, focuses on using safe, non-toxic, and biodegradable products that get the job done without causing damage along the way.

Every living creature on Earth, from the fish in our oceans to the birds in our skies to the people in our homes, is affected by what we put into the environment. Choosing eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable practices means we’re helping keep our air and water clean, reducing plastic waste, and avoiding harmful residues that stick around long after the cleaning is done. Whether you’re cleaning your home or running a business, making the switch to green cleaning is a small but powerful way to support the well-being of all life.

If you're looking to hire a cleaning service that shares these values, check out the Green Cleaning Service Directory through the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA). It’s a great resource for finding certified professionals who use environmentally friendly cleaning methods and products. Going green with your cleaning isn’t just a trend—it’s a meaningful choice that makes a difference for everyone, everywhere.

Dear IJCSA Members,

As part of the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA), you are not only a leader in professional cleaning but also a steward of environmental responsibility. Today’s clients, both residential and commercial, are increasingly seeking eco-friendly cleaning solutions that prioritize health, sustainability, and safety. To meet this growing demand, we encourage you to highlight your commitment to sustainable cleaning practices and promote your services through the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory. This powerful platform connects environmentally conscious consumers with cleaning providers like you who use non-toxic cleaning products, biodegradable cleaning products, and other environmentally responsible cleaning methods. By joining the directory, you position your business as a trusted provider in the expanding green service economy.

How the Green Cleaning Service Directory Supports Your Growth

Finding the right green cleaning partner has never been easier, thanks to the IJCSA Green Cleaning Services Directory. This dedicated resource showcases cleaning companies that adhere to high standards of green cleaning, including the use of safe, plant-based solutions and sustainable tools like reusable microfiber cloths and low-impact equipment. The directory is frequently referenced by consumers looking for green cleaning services that align with their values of health and environmental protection. Whether you're a residential maid service or a large commercial janitorial contractor, listing your business in this directory increases your visibility and credibility. It signals to clients that you are not only professional but also committed to creating safer indoor air quality and reducing ecological footprints.

Elevate Your Brand with Green Certification and Industry Recognition

To further strengthen your market position, consider obtaining the IJCSA Green Cleaning Certification or Green Cleaning Master Certification. These credentials validate your expertise in green cleaning products and sustainable methodologies, giving you a competitive edge. As seen in posts like "Unlocking the benefits of Green Cleaning", certified professionals enjoy increased client trust, better business opportunities, and a stronger reputation in the marketplace . By combining certification with active participation in the Green Cleaning Directory, you amplify your impact. Join your peers, such as Reflections Cleaning & Maintenance, LLC, who proudly display their Master Green Cleaning Certification and connect with clients daily through our network.

Take Action Today for a Greener Tomorrow

The shift toward eco-friendly cleaning is not a trend; it’s the future of the industry. Consumers are actively searching for companies that share their values, and the IJCSA Green Cleaning Services Directory puts your business right in their path. Don’t miss the opportunity to grow, serve, and lead in this green revolution. Visit https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services today, get listed, get certified, and make your commitment to sustainable cleaning visible to the world. Together, let’s clean smarter, safer, and greener—for our clients, our communities, and our planet.

A good tell today of how a business operates is through Customer Service. Janitorial is a service based business where we are focused on providing quality to our partners through trust that they have in us. Open communication is key in this as we cannot fix a problem without knowing about it which comes to us keeping good communication with our partners. If they feel they aren't being heard and a problem is not being fixed then we are not providing them with the quality we promised them. By having great Customer service we will be able to understand these issues, be able to support our partners by listening to them and resolving any feedback they give us, and be able to stay true to our promise of quality and trust as we service their locations. 

As members of the IJSCA we represent this industry. If we cannot provide good services to our partners and do not have good customer service, then we do not deserve their trust. Members of the IJSCA can be accessed here at IJCSA Business Directory.

Customer service is crucial to any business in today's time, but especially in the janitorial sector, because you have to be able to sell and advocate for you cleaning company and actually show up and deliver what was promised or expected. Customer service provides open lines of communication, a sense of trust, transparency, a way to effectively communicate any concerns or issues, and the security of knowing that you can maintain communication when needed. Great customer service further provides support and assistance, increased customer satisfaction, a competitive advantage, and a positive perception of your business. All members of IJCSA understand the aim of great customer service and use this with all business practices. IJCSA offers great customer service that goes beyond the needs of the client by hearing the customer, understanding the customer's needs, and caring for the customer. This is accomplished by treating all clients equally and making sure they are completely cared for and satisfied.

IJCSA members take pride in providing great customer service, and are authentic in our approach to servicing clients. Our clients come first as they are the ones who help make our business successful. We treat each client with dignity and respect. Our members can be accessed using the IJCSA Business Directory. where you can rest assured that we treat customer service as a priority.