https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services

Finding a truly green cleaning service shouldn’t feel complicated—and that’s where IJCSA comes in. We connect consumers with cleaning professionals who are committed to safer, eco-friendly practices that protect your home, your health, and the environment. Whether you’re searching for a service that uses non-toxic products, reduces harsh chemical exposure, or prioritizes sustainable methods, IJCSA helps point you in the right direction with confidence.

Today’s families and businesses are more conscious than ever about what goes into their spaces. Traditional cleaning products can leave behind harmful residues that affect indoor air quality, trigger allergies, and impact long-term health. IJCSA recognizes that clean should never come at the cost of well-being. That’s why we emphasize green cleaning solutions that are tough on dirt and germs—but gentle on people, pets, and the planet.

When you choose a green cleaning service through IJCSA, you’re choosing transparency, responsibility, and peace of mind. From residential homes to offices and shared spaces, green cleaning supports a healthier lifestyle while still delivering professional-level results. It’s not just about cleanliness—it’s about creating safer environments where people can live, work, and thrive.

IJCSA is proud to be a trusted resource for those who want cleaner spaces without compromising their values. If you’re ready to make the switch to a more sustainable, health-conscious cleaning approach, let IJCSA help guide you toward a greener, smarter choice—because a clean space should also be a safe one

For cleaning employees and staff, understanding bloodborne pathogens is not just a matter of compliance; it's a fundamental aspect of ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for themselves and others. Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms present in blood and other bodily fluids that can cause diseases in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Knowledge about these pathogens, their transmission routes, and appropriate safety measures is crucial for minimizing the risk of exposure and preventing potential health consequences.

The risks associated with bloodborne pathogens in the workplace are significant. Cleaning staff are often responsible for handling potentially contaminated materials, such as soiled linens, used needles, and bodily fluid spills. Without proper training and awareness, they may unknowingly expose themselves to these pathogens through accidental needle sticks, cuts from contaminated objects, or contact with mucous membranes. Such exposures can lead to serious infections, chronic illnesses, and long-term health complications. Therefore, it is imperative that cleaning staff are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to protect themselves effectively.

To mitigate the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens, here are some important steps to follow:

• Comprehensive Training: Providing regular, in-depth training on bloodborne pathogens, modes of transmission, and appropriate safety precautions.
  

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring access to and proper use of PPE, such as gloves, masks, eye protection, and gowns.
  

• Safe Handling Procedures: Establishing and enforcing safe handling procedures for contaminated materials, including proper disposal methods and sharps container usage.
  

• Spill Cleanup Protocols: Implementing clear protocols for cleaning up spills of blood or other bodily fluids, including the use of appropriate disinfectants.
  

• Post-Exposure Procedures: Outlining steps to take in the event of an exposure incident, including immediate reporting, medical evaluation, and follow-up care.
  

By prioritizing education, adherence to safety protocols, and readily accessible resources, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission and protect the health and well-being of their cleaning staff.

Biohazard cleaning services are a critical, specialized resource that protect public health, restore safety, and support individuals during some of life’s most difficult moments. IJCSA Members are trained to professionally handle trauma scenes, unattended deaths, hoarding environments, infectious waste, rodent contamination, sewage backups, and more. These situations can expose families, businesses, and communities to dangerous pathogens, bloodborne hazards, and structural contamination that require certified skills, proper equipment, and strict OSHA-compliant procedures. Unlike general cleaning, biohazard remediation demands expertise, compassion, and precision to ensure that affected areas are fully decontaminated, sanitized, and safe for occupancy.

Members of IJCSA uphold the highest standards in the biohazard cleaning industry through extensive education, certification programs, and adherence to proven safety protocols. With specialized training in OSHA 1910.120, bloodborne pathogens, personal protective equipment, and hazardous waste handling, IJCSA Members are equipped to manage even the most complex and high-risk environments. From odor removal and structural decontamination to proper waste disposal and documentation, members bring professionalism, reliability, and technical mastery to every situation. Their commitment ensures that clients receive thorough, discreet, and compliant remediation—protecting both the property and the individuals involved.

Choosing an IJCSA Member for biohazard services means choosing trusted professionals who provide more than just cleaning—they deliver safety, reassurance, and peace of mind. Whether assisting grieving families, supporting landlords, or helping businesses maintain a healthy environment, IJCSA Members combine compassion with expertise. They approach every job with respect, confidentiality, and a dedication to restoring order during times of crisis. By promoting the essential value of certified biohazard remediation, IJCSA supports a community of skilled professionals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.

Janitors and janitorial staff play an essential role in our daily lives, often working behind the scenes to keep the spaces we use every day clean, safe, and functional. From offices and schools to hospitals, retail spaces, and public buildings, janitorial and commercial cleaning professionals ensure that environments remain sanitary, organized, and welcoming. Their work directly impacts health and productivity by reducing the spread of germs, maintaining clean surfaces, and supporting overall building hygiene. Without consistent janitorial services, many of the spaces we rely on would quickly become unsafe and unpleasant.

The importance of commercial cleaning and janitorial services extends beyond appearance. Janitorial staff help protect public health by properly cleaning restrooms, disinfecting high-touch areas, managing waste, and addressing spills or hazards before they become serious problems. In healthcare facilities and schools especially, trained janitors are a frontline defense against illness and contamination. Their knowledge of cleaning protocols, proper chemical use, and safety procedures ensures that buildings operate smoothly and comply with health and safety standards.

Beyond health and safety, janitors contribute to the overall experience and functionality of the spaces we occupy. Clean, well-maintained buildings create positive impressions, boost employee morale, and support learning, healing, and productivity. Janitorial and commercial cleaning professionals provide consistency and reliability that many people may not notice until it’s missing. Their dedication, skill, and commitment to service make modern life possible, reminding us that janitors are not just support staff—they are vital contributors to the well-being of our communities and workplaces.

Find one here: Janitorial Service

Medical cleaning is built around one simple idea to stop germs from spreading. In hospitals and clinics, cleaning teams do much more than make spaces look nice—they focus on protecting people. They clean with purpose, paying close attention to high-touch surfaces and following infection prevention practices designed to keep patients safe. What many people do not realize is that these same methods work just as well in everyday places like homes, offices, schools, childcare centers, gyms, churches, salons, and retail spaces. When healthcare-style cleaning is used outside of hospitals, everyday cleaning becomes a form of public health protection.

The first step is changing how we think about cleaning. In healthcare, the focus is on the surfaces people touch the most, because that is where germs spread fastest. The same is true anywhere people gather. Door handles, light switches, keyboards, phones, breakroom appliances, elevator buttons, and restrooms all deserve extra attention. Creating a simple routine that focuses on these high-touch areas—daily or multiple times a day in busy spaces—can dramatically reduce the spread of germs. Cleaning from top to bottom and from cleaner areas to dirtier ones also helps prevent germs from being spread around instead of removed.

Using the right products the right way is just as important. Healthcare cleaning depends on EPA-registered disinfectants, proper dwell time, and following label directions—not quick wipe-downs or guesswork. Disinfectants need time to work, and skipping that step means germs may survive. Simple practices like changing cloths between rooms, using color-coded microfiber, wearing gloves when needed, and washing hands after cleaning go a long way in keeping both cleaners and building occupants safe. For those looking for professional support or trained providers who follow these standards, the IJCSA Janitorial Services Directory is a valuable resource for finding qualified cleaning professionals.

At the end of the day, germs don’t stay in hospitals—they travel with us into our workplaces, homes, and communities. By using healthcare-inspired cleaning practices in everyday spaces, we take a practical, powerful step toward protecting families, employees, and the people we care about—one surface at a time.

References:

https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus-and-disinfectants

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

https://www.cdc.gov/healthcare-associated-infections/hcp/cleaning-global/procedures.html?utm_source

https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/when-and-how-to-clean-and-disinfect-a-facility.html?utm_source

https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/disinfection-sterilization/summary-recommendations.html?utm_source

Properly cleaning healthcare facilities is about far more than making spaces look clean—it’s about protecting people. Hospitals, clinics, and care facilities serve individuals who may already be vulnerable, and without strong healthcare cleaning and infection prevention practices, harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses can spread quickly. This puts patients, staff, and visitors at risk and increases the likelihood of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Healthcare environments are filled with high-touch surfaces that are used all day long, from bed rails and exam tables to door handles and restrooms. Effective environmental services (EVS) teams rely on EPA-registered disinfectants, proper dwell time, and standardized cleaning methods to reduce cross-contamination and create safer spaces. These healthcare-grade practices are what truly support patient safety and public health.

At its core, proper healthcare cleaning builds trust, safety, and accountability. Partnering with AtomClean LLC and other trained professionals' found in the IJCSA directory members of the International Janitorial Cleaning Service Association helps ensure facilities meet high standards while staying focused on what matters most: care, protection, and healing.

Becoming Green Cleaning Certified offers meaningful benefits for both individuals and companies within the cleaning industry. Certification demonstrates a commitment to safer, more responsible cleaning practices that prioritize human health, environmental protection, and professional accountability. Green cleaning certification equips cleaners with the knowledge to properly use eco-friendly products, reduce chemical exposure, and understand the impact cleaning choices have on indoor air quality, water systems, and long-term environmental health. For individuals, certification builds confidence and credibility; for companies, it establishes trust and professionalism in a competitive marketplace.

One of the most significant benefits of green cleaning certification is the ability to protect people from harmful chemicals. Traditional cleaning products often contain toxins that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, long-term health problems, and environmental damage. Green cleaning-certified professionals are trained to recognize safer alternatives, apply products correctly, and avoid unnecessary chemical use. This protects not only cleaning staff, but also clients, families, children, pets, and vulnerable populations who occupy the spaces being cleaned. Certification reinforces the value that a truly clean space should also be a safe one.

Green cleaning certification also provides a strong business advantage. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly cleaning services and want assurance that companies are not engaging in greenwashing. Certification offers verifiable proof that a cleaner or company understands green cleaning principles and follows recognized standards. Being listed in the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory allows certified professionals and businesses to be easily found by consumers who are specifically searching for trusted green cleaning providers. This visibility helps connect environmentally conscious clients with qualified professionals who share their values.

Beyond marketing and compliance, green cleaning certification reflects a deeper commitment to stewardship and responsibility. Certified professionals understand that protecting the environment goes hand-in-hand with protecting public health. By reducing chemical runoff, minimizing waste, and choosing sustainable practices, green cleaning-certified individuals and companies contribute to a healthier planet and a safer future. Certification through IJCSA supports ongoing education, ethical practices, and industry leadership—helping elevate both the profession and the impact cleaners have on the world around them.

Find one here: Green Cleaning Services

Understanding bloodborne pathogens is a critical component of workplace safety for cleaning employees and staff. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood that can cause serious diseases, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Cleaning staff are often on the front lines of exposure because their duties may include handling trash, cleaning restrooms, responding to spills, or dealing with sharp objects like broken glass or needles. Without proper knowledge and awareness, these routine tasks can pose significant health risks. Education empowers employees to recognize potential hazards and take appropriate precautions before exposure occurs.

Proper training on bloodborne pathogens helps cleaning staff learn how infections are transmitted and how to protect themselves effectively. This includes understanding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, as well as safe handling and disposal procedures for contaminated materials. Knowledge of correct cleaning and disinfection methods ensures that contaminated areas are sanitized thoroughly, reducing the risk of spreading infections to coworkers, building occupants, or the public. When employees understand why these procedures matter, they are more likely to follow them consistently and correctly.

Beyond individual safety, awareness of bloodborne pathogens contributes to a healthier and more compliant workplace overall. Employers who provide thorough training demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being and meet regulatory requirements, such as those set by occupational safety authorities. Well-informed cleaning staff can respond calmly and effectively to incidents involving blood or bodily fluids, minimizing disruption and liability. Ultimately, educating cleaning employees about bloodborne pathogens not only protects their health but also fosters a safer, more responsible environment for everyone they serve.

Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood that can cause diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B. Anyone who works in the cleaning industry may come into contact with materials that could be contaminated with bloodborne pathogens. Possessing the right knowledge ensures that individuals are able to perform their duties while protecting their own safety and the safety of those around them. Cleaning staff must understand where bloodborne pathogens may be present, how to properly clean surfaces that come into contact with them, how to safely handle and dispose of contaminated materials or waste, and how to care for themselves or others who may be exposed.

Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted not only through blood, but also through certain body fluids and materials that have come into contact with them. This includes laundry, bedding, fixtures, flooring, and other surfaces. Because it is not always possible to know whether bloodborne pathogens are present, it is best to assume they are and handle all situations accordingly. This includes wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), using appropriate cleaning supplies, properly labeling and handling contaminated materials (such as laundry or bedding), and safely disposing of contaminated waste. The CDC has established guidelines known as Universal Precautions and Protective Practices to provide guidance when performing these activities.

In addition, it is equally important for individuals to know what to do if they accidentally come into contact with contaminated materials or experience a potential exposure. Taking early action can help prevent or reduce the risk of serious, life-altering conditions.

By staying informed and following proper safety practices, we can help ensure the safety of ourselves and those we serve.

Understanding bloodborne pathogens is crucial in the workplace. All accidents that involve anything resembling blood should be treated as such and properly cleaned up.  Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms that are present in human blood and may be found in other bodily fluids, such as vomit, feces, saliva and urine. These pathogens cause diseases such as Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, and HIV which may progress into AIDS.  These pathogens can be spread through ingestion or exposed skin containing a cut or lesion.  To clean and prevent further exposure, certain steps should be taken.

The first step is to secure the area so no one else will be exposed. Second, a bloodborne pathogen kit should be obtained and all instructions read.  The kit is filled with items to help protect the person cleaning.  Common kit items include a mask, shovel and scoop, absorbing powder, booties, a biohazard bag, safety goggles, apron, towelettes and germicidal disposal wipes etc.  Proper cleaning steps should be completed and everything disposed into a biohazard bag. This PPE helps protect the cleaner from exposure. 

Knowing this information protects the cleaner and other employees and staff from potentially getting sick or catching a fatal disease.   The last element is proper documentation.  Every business should have instructions on how to handle bloodborne pathogens on site with proper training for all employees.  Management should always be notified and information forms completed when an exposure occurs.