In terms of industry regulation, liability, and occupational exposure, the medical industry is by far the most stringent and involved field when it comes to cleaning. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) have both developed standards and practices that one should follow when performing medical cleaning or when exposed to potentially infectious materials (like blood). Although these rules and regulations pertain especially to the medical field (or, technically, to any field with occupational exposure), we would be amiss to assume that they have no place in other facets of cleaning.

One of the primary goals of medical cleaning is to have a very involved approach to disinfecting surfaces, thereby reducing the amount of pathogens present in the environment to the smallest level possible, or at least to an acceptable level. Notions such as touch point disinfection, chemical dwell time, and hazardous chemical training, among others, are a few of the many very helpful concepts one might learn while training to be a medical cleaner.

Even if one never plans on cleaning a medical facility, it is still advisable to complete an OSHA compliant bloodborne pathogen and hazardous chemical standard certification. This is because exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) is possible in practically any field of cleaning. From cleaning schools to replacing liners in a feminine waste disposal bin to deep cleaning a residential bathroom, the presence of viral infections like Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), among many others, is possible. The IJCSA is a great source for finding OSHA compliant training.

To summarize, one doesn't have to be a medical cleaner to use medical cleaning practices in their usual course of business. While there are many procedures that are unnecessary when working in other industries, the medical field is a unique lens that allows one to employ a more cerebral approach to disinfecting and sanitizing, giving their clients greater peace of mind and protecting them from hazardous and potentially life threatening pathogens. If you're a building owner or manager looking to hire a residential or commercial cleaner in your area, try using the IJCSA Business Directory.

Preventing the spread of infectious diseases is vital in the workplace to any employee that would be exposed.  It is important for anyone who would encounter bloodborne pathogens to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.  Hepatitis B and HIV to name a few are serious illnesses that are preventable.  Healthcare professionals are not the only employees that need to have the knowledge of the risks of disease exposure.  It is a must for commercial cleaning professionals to have the proper training and knowledge of the risks of diseases and what they can do to prevent the spread.  

The customers are reliant upon the professional cleaners to contain their workplace and or home to be sanitized and healthy clean.  With the expectations of the employees, there is also an expectation of the employer to maintain the proper training materials to keep the employees well informed to prevent the risks of exposure and to remain safe.  Cleaning professionals protecting themselves and others should be one of the important values to have working in the cleaning industry.  These practices generally take place annually.     

Precautions must be taken with every step in the cleaning industry by simple steps of handwashing and utilizing proper hand washing techniques.  When every individual involved follows the proper protocols in the elimination process of spreading diseases, there would be less reports of potential spread of potential diseases and etc.     

proper cleaning and employee awareness regrading bloodborne pathogens are crucial for work place safety.preventing the spread of infectious diseases,and complying with OSHA regulations.Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans.why is employee safety important because Bloodborne pathogen like HIV,Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C can cause serious and potentially life threatening illnesses if the proper cleaning and knowledge of chemicals are not used in the right way.bloodborne pathogens training matters exposure to Bloodborne pathogens can lead to serious health consequences including the transmission of diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.providing proper training helps employers recognize and mitigate these risks creating a safer work environment for everyone

It's so easy to complain to a faceless, nameless generic email address..  On the other hand if a customer knows you, feels valued, understood and appreciated a small issue can stay just that... a small issue.  No bloated, the sky is falling emails with all the big words and every bigger threats.  Our goal is to make customers feel truly heard, and work together to create a long term solution, not just a band-aid.  Let's be honest, we all fail at times.  The goal isn't perfection, it's partnership.  I'm working just as hard for you as you do for yourself.  My success if yours!  Certainly all customers aren't the same, so it's also important to clarify expectations and follow thru with consistent results. 

Cleaning staff are the first line of defense against the spread of Blood-borne pathogens like HIV and Hepatitis B.  Cleaners working in healthcare or settings where these pathogens may be present have a significant risk of exposure if not trained properly.  It is our responsibility to understand how these pathogens are spread for the safety of our staff and everyone utilizing the facility.   Proper and ongoing training in identifying these hazards, as well as using the correct PPE and chemicals will give cleaning staff the ability to complete difficult tasks with confidence.   

In healthcare and commercial environments alike, cleaning staff are often the silent line of defense against infection and illness. While much attention is paid to doctors, nurses, or frontline employees, the people handling trash, wiping surfaces, and disinfecting restrooms are equally responsible for maintaining a safe space. That’s why it’s essential for every cleaning employee to understand what bloodborne pathogens are, how they spread, and how to protect themselves and others from exposure.

Bloodborne pathogens such as Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and HIV can be present in even the smallest amounts of blood or bodily fluid. These invisible risks often hide in places that might seem routine to clean  a trash bin in a medical exam room, a restroom floor, or even a desk with a small cut or nosebleed stain left behind. Without proper training, PPE, and protocols, a cleaner could unknowingly expose themselves to serious illness. And once exposed, the impact isn’t just physical  it affects families, livelihoods, and the trust clients place in your company.

Equipping cleaning crews with bloodborne pathogen awareness isn’t just an OSHA requirement  it’s a sign of a company that takes care of its people. When cleaners know how to identify risks, wear protective gear correctly, and respond to incidents with confidence, they not only keep themselves safe, they elevate the entire standard of service. Whether you’re cleaning a medical facility, school, or office, understanding these risks and how to control them should be non-negotiable. It’s about more than compliance  it’s about leadership, protection, and professionalism.

Great customer service in the janitorial and cleaning industry goes beyond simply doing a good job. It is about reliability, communication, and exceeding expectations. Clients trust cleaning professionals to maintain their workspaces, ensuring they are safe, sanitary, and presentable. This trust is built through consistency, showing up on time, and delivering quality results every visit. Clear and open communication is just as important. Customers should feel confident that any special requests, concerns, or issues will be addressed promptly and professionally. Whether it is responding quickly to emails, following up on a service request, or proactively checking in on customer satisfaction, good communication builds strong, long-lasting relationships.

Another major factor in great customer service is attention to detail. Every business has different needs, and understanding what matters most to each client makes a big difference. Some may prioritize restroom cleanliness, while others focus on maintaining spotless floors or disinfecting high-touch areas. Going the extra mile, such as restocking supplies without being asked or offering recommendations for better maintenance, shows commitment to excellence. Ultimately, great customer service in the cleaning industry is about more than just cleaning—it is about being a dependable partner that businesses can count on to keep their environment in top shape.

THE IMPLEMINTATION OF SOME OF THE MEDICAL CLEANING PRACTICES I HAVE LEARNED HERE AT IJCSA IS JUST THE MOST SINCIBLE THING TO DO.

WHY NOT DAMP CLEAN SURFACES IN THE RESTROOM OF THE COMPANIES BATHROOMS.  THE HIGH TOUCH AREAS. ESPECIALLY DURING THE FLU SEASON. LET OUR CLIENTS KNOW THAT WE CARE ABOUT THE HEALTH OF THE COMPANY.

WHEN DOING A MOVE OUT CLEANING OF A RESIDENCE THE SAME COUKD BE DONE TO ALL THE HUGH TOUCH AREAS. AFTER EVERYTHING IN THE BATHROOM HAS BEEN CLEANED THE LAST THING, WE WILL DO IS TO USE A DAMP WRAG WITH DESINFECTANT TO INSURE THAT IT NOT ONLY LOOKS CLEAN BUT WE HAVE DONE OUR BEST TO RID THE HOME OF GERMS.

IMPLEMENTING THESE MEDICAL CLEANING PRACTICES INTO THESE OTHER AREAS I BELIEVE WILL BE AN EASY TRANSITION.

THE IMPLEMINTATION OF SOME OF THE MEDICAL CLEANING PRACTICES I HAVE LEARNED HERE AT IJCSA IS JUST THE MOST SINCIBLE THING TO DO.

WHY NOT DAMP CLEAN SURFACES IN THE RESTROOM OF THE COMPANIES BATHROOMS.  THE HIGH TOUCH AREAS. ESPECIALLY DURING THE FLU SEASON. LET OUR CLIENTS KNOW THAT WE CARE ABOUT THE HEALTH OF THE COMPANY.

WHEN DOING A MOVE OUT CLEANING OF A RESIDENCE THE SAME COUKD BE DONE TO ALL THE HUGH TOUCH AREAS. AFTER EVERYTHING IN THE BATHROOM HAS BEEN CLEANED THE LAST THING, WE WILL DO IS TO USE A DAMP WRAG WITH DESINFECTANT TO INSURE THAT IT NOT ONLY LOOKS CLEAN BUT WE HAVE DONE OUR BEST TO RID THE HOME OF GERMS.

IMPLEMENTING THESE MEDICAL CLEANING PRACTICES INTO THESE OTHER AREAS I BELIEVE WILL BE AN EASY TRANSITION.

Keeping homes and businesses clean is more important now than ever before. Germs, bacteria, and viruses are invisible dangers that can quickly spread and make people sick. Fortunately, we can adopt medical-grade cleaning practices used in hospitals and healthcare facilities to protect our homes and commercial spaces. These practices help us prevent illnesses and maintain healthier environments for our families, employees, and communities.

Medical cleaning involves thorough disinfection of frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, handles, countertops, and electronics. Using disinfectants approved by health authorities, and focusing extra attention on bathrooms and kitchens, helps eliminate germs effectively. Additionally, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks during cleaning, which healthcare cleaning professionals always do, ensures cleaners' safety and helps reduce the spread of infection.

Another key practice is regularly changing cleaning cloths, mops, and cleaning solutions to prevent spreading germs from one area to another. Simple habits like frequent hand washing and proper waste disposal further support medical-level hygiene. By integrating these straightforward methods into everyday cleaning routines, we can significantly lower the risk of harmful germs and viruses in homes, offices, schools, and other public spaces.

Professional cleaning companies listed in resources such as the IJCSA Janitorial Services Directory understand and implement these advanced cleaning methods. Choosing professional cleaners trained in medical cleaning techniques ensures the highest standard of hygiene and protection. Adopting medical-grade cleaning practices benefits not only your personal or business environment but also contributes positively to global efforts in protecting people from harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses.

At Ai Cleaning Solutions, LLC of Buffalo, NY, we're proud to have gained essential certifications through the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA). The knowledge and credentials we've acquired from IJCSA have significantly expanded our opportunities, enabling us to access businesses and markets that would otherwise have been beyond our reach. Our membership in this respected organization positions us to better serve our community and grow our presence within industries that value certified cleaning expertise.

Roy Schukraft - Ai Cleaning Solutions, LLC of Buffalo, NY.