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International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association

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  • 23 Mar 2024 5:47 PM | William Boston

    Selecting a cleaning service with a green cleaning program can benefit you and your family tremendously. Green cleaning products limit the amount of harmful toxins in their ingredients to include fragrances, chlorines, and often reduces the amount of waste in the packaging. Green cleaning is a way to ensure that your home is clean and sanitized, while also limiting the detrimental effects that harsher chemicals can have on the environment. 

    Finding a cleaner who is green clean certified means finding a provider who has taken the time to expand their knowledge and find better alternatives. These businesses have done the work to offer a wide variety of solutions for you and your family that take into account not only your home, but also your community. Green cleaning provides a safer environment for you as well as your cleaner and can have less lasting impacts on air quality. 

    Locating a cleaner who has been properly trained in green cleaning can be simpler than you may think. The IJCSA is an industry backed exclusive set of training programs for cleaning businesses. These are businesses that care about their customers, even the ones that they are not directly performing services for. To locate a certified green cleaner, simply use the IJCSA's Green Cleaning Service Directory. Here you can put in our location and be immediately connected with a list of providers in your area to provide top notch services while also protecting your family from harmful chemicals and pollutants. 

  • 23 Mar 2024 5:32 PM | William Boston

    Green cleaning is a specific type of cleaning process that minimizes any negative impact on the environment. This type of cleaning utilizes products that favor all natural derivatives and the natural disinfection properties of everyday chemicals. While this process can often look different, they are designed to keep your space healthy and safe while also protecting the environment. The products used in these methods are safe and reduce harmful chemicals introduced to the air. 

    There are many benefits to implementing a green cleaning program into your cleaning business. One of the main benefits is that you can keep clients with allergies or sensitive skin safe from irritants. Using products that are less harsh can minimize the side effects on these clients and ensure that their home is clean and safe. With a green cleaning program you will have extensive knowledge of the ingredients of the products that you are using and your understanding of how they can be used will grow. You will have a better connection with the tools needed for your work as well as a firm understanding of how to best implement these products in a home. 


  • 23 Mar 2024 3:10 PM | Yennifer Avalos

    Maintaining a clean workplace and educating staff about Bloodborne pathogens are essential for ensuring a safe working environment. Bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV a hepatitis B, pose serious health risks and can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. By implementing proper cleaning protocols and educating employees about these risks, companies can minimize the likelihood of transmission and protect the health and well-being of their staff.

    Educating employees about Bloodborne pathogens fosters a culture if responsibility and care within the workplace. When employees understand the nature of these pathogens, how they are transmitted, and the importance of through cleaning procedures, they are better equipped to protect themselves and their colleagues. 

    In addition of promoting employee health and safety rigorous cleaning protocols, also contribute to the overall reputation and credibility of an organization. This not only helps to build trust with stakeholders but also sets a positive example for others in the industry to follow.

    Stefanny Avalos,

    So Shiny Janitorial Owner

  • 23 Mar 2024 1:50 PM | Charles Baird

    A young physician had just come in from assisting a laboring mother. His hands were covered by the evidence of the operation. The controversial Austrian physician who witnessed this firmly rebuked his younger colleague and told him to go get cleaned up before proceeding to the next birthing mother. At this time in Europe, the knowledge of pathogens was minimal but the mortality rates were not-especially in the birthing wards. But one man would strive to take the cleanliness practiced by the midwives into the hospitals of his beloved homeland. History lessons from the past show us why we must practice a system of contamination control and knowledge in the workplace.

    On the farm/ranch we grew up taking pride in the grease, oil, or dirt that gave proof to the demands of our daily chores or projects. It was much the same in Europe at the hospitals in a trade exclusively dominated by men. Pride often gets us into trouble in more ways than we realize. We can be gratified by the results as long as no one else is detrimental affected. Wearing personal protection such as a uniform designated with this in mind, glasses and gloves, are the most important things to remember.

    Thinking about the consequences to others around us should play major part in our attitude toward pathogens of any kind. That OSHA and fines should happen to catch up could indeed be a key motivator- but principles of society go beyond a governing entity. Principles are based on what we believe and why and if we believe what others tell us without thought we become a cheap fragment. These ignorant doctors in 18th century Europe were going from birthing woman to woman without cleaning up or wearing protective equipment because they were just doing what everyone else was doing. Sounds similar to our society now in other facets of life.

    To sum this up let's not just consider the facts and figures spouted out with textbook lingo and because OSHA tells us to, let's make sure we know the life and death is in the blood...

  • 22 Mar 2024 9:23 PM | Sierrah Voll

    The widespread use of cleaning chemicals in our daily lives has undoubtedly made sanitizing surfaces and keeping our homes and businesses clean much more convenient. However, a hidden cost to this convenience often goes unnoticed – the harmful effects these chemicals can have on the planet and our health.

    Firstly, many cleaning chemicals contain toxic ingredients that can negatively impact the environment. When these chemicals are flushed down drains or disposed of improperly, they can contaminate waterways and soil, leading to pollution and damage to ecosystems. Additionally, the production and transportation of these chemicals contribute to carbon emissions and other pollutants, further exacerbating environmental degradation.

    Moreover, using cleaning chemicals can also pose significant risks to human health. Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates, which have been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even more severe health conditions with long-term exposure. Children, pets, and individuals with respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of these chemicals, highlighting the importance of choosing safer, eco-friendly alternatives. Overall, it's essential to be mindful of the impact of cleaning chemicals on the planet and our well-being and opt for greener, more sustainable cleaning solutions whenever possible. 

  • 22 Mar 2024 1:16 PM | Blake Gordon

    In healthcare facilities, research labs, and various workplace environments, the knowledge and awareness of bloodborne pathogens among cleaning employees and staff members play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of both the workers and the public. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms that can be present in blood and other bodily fluids, posing significant health risks when not handled properly. Understanding the importance of cleaning employees and staff knowing about bloodborne pathogens is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

    First and foremost, educating cleaning employees and staff about bloodborne pathogens is crucial for their own safety. These pathogens can transmit life-threatening diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Cleaning personnel often come into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces and materials, making them susceptible to exposure. With proper training and awareness, they can take precautions such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and using disinfection protocols to minimize their risk of infection. This not only safeguards their well-being but also ensures that they can continue to provide essential services without fear.

    Moreover, the knowledge of bloodborne pathogens among employees and staff extends beyond personal safety. It is essential for preventing the potential spread of infections to others. In healthcare settings, for instance, the thorough cleaning of medical equipment and surfaces is paramount to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Cleaning personnel must understand the correct protocols for decontaminating surfaces and disposing of contaminated materials safely. In non-healthcare workplaces, such as educational institutions or research labs, the proper handling and disposal of materials containing bloodborne pathogens are essential to prevent accidental exposures and potential outbreaks.

    In conclusion, the significance of cleaning employees and staff being well-informed about bloodborne pathogens cannot be overstated. Their awareness not only protects their own health but also contributes to the overall safety of the workplace and the community. Proper training and education on handling bloodborne pathogens empower these essential workers to carry out their duties safely and effectively, reducing the risk of infection and ensuring a healthier environment for everyone involved.


  • 22 Mar 2024 7:34 AM | Paulo Filho

    Finding a carpet cleaning service is easy but finding a certified carpet cleaning professional is even more important. When it comes time to finding certified carpet cleaning pros, check out IJCSA directory. It takes time, dedication, proper training, and proper tools to properly clean a carpet and rug. Next time you think about renting a machine at home depot, make sure to consider the possible outcomes, such as carpet damage, mold, mildew and other scenarios when attempting to clean your own carpets. Don't waste time and money and hire a professional today.

  • 22 Mar 2024 1:46 AM | Nadine Mackey

    Blood-borne viruses are a major risk to human health because they can lead to life-threatening illnesses and long-term health issues. It is crucial to comprehend these hazards and put into practice efficient preventative measures, particularly for healthcare workers and those employed in high-risk workplaces. We will examine common blood-borne infections, their mechanisms of transmission, precautions to take, and safety procedures in and outside of healthcare facilities in this extensive handbook. Let's investigate the realm of blood-borne infections and the essential measures to protect health.

    Training on bloodborne pathogens is essential for providing people with the information and abilities they need to stop the spread of these illnesses, protecting everyone's health and safety.  Being on the front lines of patient care puts healthcare workers at danger of coming into contact with bloodborne infections. By giving them the tools to defend themselves while giving care, training lowers the risk of occupational infections that might result in long-term health problems.

    Employers are shielded from exposure by PPE, which acts as a barrier against bloodborne infections. PPE does not completely remove the risk; contaminated equipment and PPE should be disposed of safely by placing it in bags or containers with the proper labels. One of the best ways to reduce infections and stop the spread of disease is to practice good hand hygiene in addition to wearing personal protective equipment. Hand hygiene is a requirement for all personnel who work with patients.



  • 22 Mar 2024 12:02 AM | William Boston

    It is obvious that cleaning medical facilities poses different threats on the surface than cleaning commercial or residential properties. While there are things that you must keep in mind in a medical facility to prevent the spread of germs, there are concepts in this training that you could and should take with you to any property that you are tasked with cleaning. Sanitation is the name of the game in medical facilities, but keeping yourself safe includes this step no matter where you are cleaning. 

    Knowing the proper ways to maintain your health and safety are of the highest importance and understanding proper procedures to ensure this safety is helpful. While residential and commercial jobs may look clean visually, there are millions of germs hiding on high touch surfaces. While you must remove the dust and grime, there should be some level of sanitation in your cleaning process to kill germs and prevent the spread of illness. 

    As a cleaner it is our job and duty to protect our clients as well as ourselves from sickness and germs. Clients expect to have not only a visually clean area, but also an area that is free of germs. The area when completed should be safe for inhabitants. Protecting the population of your community is not something that will generally be overly stated in your contract, but should be implied. Small changes to your routine to include utilizing cleaners with sanitation properties, handwashing, or use of hand sanitizer can drastically reduce the risk of spreading illness in an area. Focusing these efforts on high touch areas of a home or workplace can mean that you or your clients can stay safe from communicable illnesses to include influenza, Covid-19, and even human pathogenic bacteria. 

    Utilizing the IJCSA’s Janitorial Directory of professionals can assist you in locating a cleaning crew that has been specially trained in these areas. Cleaners listed on this directory have been properly trained on the importance of handwashing as well as disinfection and understand that skipping over these steps can put the public at risk. While all cleaners want happy customers, utilizing this directory can ensure that you will find a cleaning company that also cares about your health and safety.


  • 21 Mar 2024 9:46 PM | Jaqua Lawson

    Knowledge of bloodborne pathogens is crucial for those working in the healthcare field. Proper education will help you from getting sick. For example, you should always treat any bodily fluids as contaminated. This means that wearing protective gear is a must.

    It is also important to know how to clean up after potentially infectious substances in the correct way. While wearing PPE, you should disinfect with proper chemicals and dispose of items in proper containers. Mishandling of hazardous materials is a great way to get sick and/or fired.

    Knowing what to do if you get exposed is just as vital as prevention. Thoroughly clean the exposed area and contact your supervisor right away! Follow the guidelines given to you. Finally, learn from this accident to ensure it does not happen again.


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