I am so happy to be here since I have found a IJCSA my company has grown tremendously. The chemical hazard certification has become beneficial in many ways to my company. It is a staple in our business. It teaches us about MSD’s and SDS sheets we have learned so much on Chemical hazards. It’s one of those things like Once. You know you cannot unknown. Your eyes are truly open, knowing how to read a SDS sheet is very important. It is life changing knowledge because your life can literally depend on it. 

Knowing chemical hazard safety is crucial to prevent severe harm to people, who can suffer acute injuries like burns and poisoning, and chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and reproductive problems from exposure.

It also protects the environment from the potentially catastrophic consequences of uncontrolled chemical reactions, like toxic fumes, fires, and explosions.

Understanding chemical hazards allows for proper handling, use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and implementation of safe practices to prevent incidents and protect worker well-being. 

I could not be more happier of the knowledge I've obtained here :) 

If you’re thinking about hiring a cleaning service, choosing a green cleaning company is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Green cleaning means using products and methods that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment. Unlike traditional cleaning that can use harsh chemicals, green cleaners focus on non-toxic, biodegradable solutions that don’t leave behind harmful residues. This not only helps improve the air quality in your home or office but also protects the planet by reducing pollution and waste.

Many people wonder if green cleaning really works—and the answer is yes! With modern technology and careful attention to detail, green cleaning services can tackle tough dirt and grime just as well as conventional methods, but without the risks. Plus, they often use microfiber cloths and HEPA-filter vacuums that trap dust and allergens more effectively. If you want to find a trustworthy green cleaning service, the Green Cleaning Service Directory is a great place to start. It’s filled with companies that are committed to eco-friendly practices and are ready to make your space healthier and fresher.

Supporting green cleaning isn’t just good for the environment—it’s good for your peace of mind. When you book a green cleaning service, you’re choosing to protect your loved ones and contribute to a cleaner world. To see a list of certified green cleaning professionals near you, check out the Green Cleaning Service Directory here: https://green-cleaning-directory.com. It’s a simple way to make a positive change, one clean at a time.

Having an understanding of the importance of preventing the spread of infectious disease is crucial. It is up to us to educate our teams through available resources that are OSHA compliant. Safety should be a major focus for all employers, no matter how big or small the business is.

Bloodborne pathogens has the potential to cause HBV & HIV. When working in any field that may have exposure it is crucial to have the knowledge & take universal precautions. This means more than just wearing ppe. Yes, of course, that is extremely important but so is knowing what diseases bbp can cause. Having good hand hygiene & not putting anything around your mouth such as Chapstick, smoking or food. Just keep your hands away from your face until the job is complete. 

We all go into work expecting to be home by 5 to make sure dinner is on the table or help kids with their homework. If we aren't educated, if we don't take all the necessary precautions and work safe, then that won't happen for everyone. Help stop the spread of infectious disease & do your part.

OSHA certification, PPE, Hand hygiene, universal precautions & of course spread your knowledge. It doesn't help anyone to keep it to themselves.

 Blood-borne pathogens are germs that live in blood and can cause serious diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. If cleaning employees don’t know how to handle these situations properly, they could get sick or spread germs to others without even knowing.

That’s why it’s important for all cleaning staff to get basic training on bloodborne pathogens. This training teaches them how to protect themselves by wearing gloves and other safety gear, how to clean up spills safely, and how to throw away contaminated materials the right way. They also learn what to do if they ever get exposed to blood by accident. With the right knowledge and tools, workers can stay safe and help prevent the spread of dangerous diseases.

Keeping everyone safe is a team effort. When cleaning staff know what to do, they help create a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone whether it’s in a school, office, hospital, or any other place. Training on blood-borne pathogens is not just about following rule it’s about protecting people and showing respect for the important work that cleaners do every day.

This website is a great way to get GREEN CERTIFICATION and Finding A Green Cleaning Service. They have a user-friendly and intuitive website. The costs are very affordable. Not to mention, this certification will add more credibility your firm. 

Why is GREEN CERTIFICATION important? It is important to utilize cleaning methods, supplies, and equipment that are environmentally friendly and have minimal to no harmful impact on human health. Following these green procedures you will learn will give your firm increased productivity, improved health, community and industry recognition, and reduced liabilities from worker safety issues. 

The benefits to your firm includes health benefits, improved productivity, reduced liability, cost savings, and improved community relations. This will make your firm stand out from the rest. Come and try this website and get your GREEN CERTIFICATION. The benefits to you, your firm, and the community is well worth it. 

If you want to find certified firms, use this link. https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services

Great customer service in a janitorial or cleaning service is all about delivering on promises and exceeding client expectations. It's about showing up on time, being thorough in your work, and ensuring the space is spotless and organized. But it's not just about the cleaning itself - it's also about being responsive to client needs, listening to their concerns, and being proactive in addressing any issues that may arise. When a client feels heard and valued, they're more likely to become a loyal customer and refer your business to others.

A key aspect of great customer service in this industry is also about being flexible and adaptable. This might mean accommodating last-minute schedule changes, providing customized cleaning solutions, or simply being willing to go the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction. By prioritizing communication, reliability, and attention to detail, a janitorial or cleaning service can build trust with its clients and establish a reputation for excellence. This, in turn, can lead to long-term contracts, positive word-of-mouth, and a steady stream of referrals - all essential for driving growth and success in the business.

Having completed the customer service certification through IJCSA gave me confidence and equipped me with ideas as to how to build a lasting customer relationships. The course is very helpful and will surely apply this knowledge as I operate my cleaning business. 

The importance of cleaning is for promoting physical and mental well being by reducing illness, and improves indoor air quality .

Regular cleaning can reduce allergens and the risk of illness, while leading to a more productive safe work environment.

Knowing about BBPs improves workplace and personal safety by equipping individuals with the knowledge to prevent infections from diseases like HIV and Hepatitis.

I am proud to announce that I am now an IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified professional! Completing this certification has given me a deeper understanding of how to provide safe, effective, and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions for homes and businesses. Throughout the program, I learned how to identify harmful chemicals often found in common cleaning products and replace them with natural, non-toxic alternatives that protect both human health and the environment. This training reinforces my commitment to delivering cleaning services that not only shine but also support long-term sustainability.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the course was learning the science behind natural cleaning ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils. These everyday products are powerful enough to disinfect, deodorize, and clean just as effectively as harsh chemicals, without the dangerous side effects. I also found it eye-opening to understand the environmental impact of plastics, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and petroleum-based cleaners. This knowledge allows me to educate my clients about healthier choices while ensuring their homes and workplaces are safe from unnecessary toxic exposure.

As an IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified cleaner, I now bring proven green cleaning methods into every job. Whether it’s using microfiber cloths to reduce waste, steam cleaning to disinfect naturally, or choosing biodegradable products, I can confidently assure clients that their spaces are being cleaned with their health and safety in mind. This certification not only strengthens my expertise but also demonstrates my dedication to professional excellence and environmental responsibility. Choosing my services means choosing a cleaner, greener, and healthier way of life.

Why Every Person Should Only Perform Natural Green Cleaning

Introduction to Green Cleaning

In recent years, the importance of adopting natural green cleaning practices has become increasingly evident. The use of conventional cleaning products, which often contain harsh chemicals, has been linked to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even long-term conditions like asthma [19][21]. A comprehensive study published by researchers in the Indoor Air journal, analyzing data from over 41,000 French adults in the CONSTANCES cohort, found that exposure to irritant and sprayed cleaning products is significantly associated with an increased risk of asthma[4]. For instance, weekly use of irritants yielded an odds ratio (OR) of 1.23, and sprays an OR of 1.18[4]. Furthermore, these chemicals can harm the environment by contaminating waterways, soil, and contributing to indoor air pollution through volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with studies identifying hundreds of hazardous VOCs emitted by cleaning supplies [22][23]. By switching to natural green cleaning methods, using non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients such as baking soda, white vinegar, and essential oils, individuals can drastically reduce their environmental footprint and protect both personal and planetary health.

The Benefits of Natural Green Cleaning

Natural green cleaning offers a multitude of benefits, from improved indoor air quality to enhanced environmental sustainability. Unlike conventional cleaners that emit hazardous VOCs, green and homemade alternatives have been shown to generate fewer airborne pollutants, contributing to a healthier home environment [24]. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), many conventional cleaning supplies contain chemicals associated with eye, skin, and respiratory irritation[18]. In contrast, natural green cleaning relies on eco-friendly, biodegradable solutions that are gentler on surfaces and safer for families, pets, and cleaning personnel. These methods are not only effective but also promote long-term sustainability. The International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) supports this shift through its Green Cleaning Certification program, which trains professionals in safe, sustainable cleaning practices and adheres to international environmental management standards like ISO 14001[3]. This demonstrates a growing institutional recognition of the significant health and environmental advantages of opting for natural cleaning solutions.

Protecting the Population and the World

The widespread adoption of natural green cleaning is essential for protecting public health and the global ecosystem. The CONSTANCES study's practical implications state that "our results suggest that using green and home‐made products may induce fewer risk for respiratory health than using conventional ones," highlighting a clear public health benefit[4]. With government agencies and major corporations increasingly requiring green cleaning certification for janitorial services, the trend toward safer cleaning is becoming institutionalized[3]. The IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory (https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services) serves as a vital resource, connecting consumers with certified green cleaning professionals who uphold rigorous environmental and health standards[1]. By choosing natural cleaning methods or certified services, individuals contribute to reducing the collective exposure to toxic substances, safeguarding vulnerable populations such as children and those with respiratory conditions. Moreover, green cleaning aligns with broader sustainability goals, minimizing pollution and conserving resources. As emphasized by IJCSA, promoting green cleaning is not just a personal choice but a societal responsibility to ensure a cleaner, safer future.

Conclusion and Call to Action

In conclusion, every person should exclusively perform or support natural green cleaning practices due to their proven benefits for health, safety, and environmental sustainability. Scientific evidence confirms that conventional cleaning products pose significant respiratory and environmental risks, while green alternatives offer safer, effective solutions[4][17]. The IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory provides a trusted platform for identifying certified green cleaning services, reinforcing industry standards and public confidence[1][14]. As stated by health researchers, "using green and home-made products may induce fewer risk for respiratory health than using conventional ones"[4]. It is imperative that individuals, households, and organizations make the switch to sustainable, non-toxic cleaning methods. By doing so, we not only protect our immediate environments but also contribute to a global movement toward a healthier, more sustainable world. Green cleaning is not just a trend, it’s a critical necessity for the well-being of our population and our planet.

References:
[1]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services
[2]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Mission
[3]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Certification
[4]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9545541/
[5]: https://www.ijcsa.org
[6]: https://www.ijcsa.org/
[7]: https://www.ijcsa.org/cleaning-certifications
[8]: https://ijcsa.com/
[9]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Contact
[10]: https://ijcsa.com/about-us
[11]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Certification-Courses-Sign-Up
[12]: https://www.ijcsa.org/enroll
[13]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Janitorial-Certification-Program
[14]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Find-A-Cleaning-Service-Janitorial-Service
[15]: https://www.ijcsa.org/IJCSA-Residential-Cleaning-Specialist-Certification
[16]: https://esntllvg.com/blogs/esntl-blog/green-cleaning-vs-conventional-cleaning-what-s-the-difference?srsltid=AfmBOopAXOXI8pgiSuqtqzC3YzZe-aw-f6bll5LCecTtlsb8g16Spz9p
[17]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9545541/
[18]: https://www.epa.gov/greenerproducts/identifying-greener-cleaning-products
[19]: https://ecochem.ind.in/switching-to-eco-friendly-cleaning-products/
[20]: https://masterclean.biz/green-cleaning-services-vs-traditional-understanding-the-differences/
[21]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045653523018374
[22]: https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/2023/09/cleaning-products-emit-hundreds-hazardous-chemicals-new-study
[23]: https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/cleaning-supplies-household-chem
[24]: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250327-is-it-healthier-to-use-household-cleaning-products-or-not
[25]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4976595/

Health and Environmental Hazards of Conventional Cleaning Products

Traditional household and commercial cleaning products often contain hazardous chemicals that pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Numerous studies have demonstrated that exposure to such products can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and long-term health conditions. For instance, a 2024 meta-analysis reviewing 77 scientific studies found strong evidence linking regular use of cleaning sprays to an increased risk of developing asthma in adults and wheezing in children[9]. These adverse effects are largely attributed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released into indoor air during cleaning and can cause irritation to the ears, nose, and throat[9].

Professional cleaners face even greater health risks due to prolonged and frequent exposure. A comprehensive 2020 study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine concluded that professional cleaners have up to a 50% higher risk of developing asthma and a 43% increased likelihood of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) compared to non-exposed individuals[16]. This study evaluated respiratory health across diverse populations and confirmed a robust association between occupational cleaning and long-term pulmonary decline[16]. Additionally, research has consistently shown that traditional cleaning products are more frequently linked to dermal, respiratory, and musculoskeletal symptoms than their environmentally preferable alternatives[6].

Conventional cleaning agents often include corrosive and irritant substances such as chlorine, ammonia, and hydrochloric acid. These chemicals are known to damage skin and the respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned that many standard cleaning products contain ingredients associated with eye and skin irritation, respiratory distress, and endocrine disruption, for example, alkylphenol ethoxylates, which can interfere with hormonal systems in both humans and aquatic organisms[1]. Furthermore, scientific assessments have detected hundreds of hazardous VOCs in commonly used cleaning products, including compounds with potential carcinogenic, reproductive, and developmental toxicity[9]. These emissions significantly contribute to indoor air pollution, paradoxically undermining the goal of cleaning: to create a healthier living environment.

Benefits of Green Cleaning Solutions

In stark contrast, green cleaning solutions emphasize the use of biodegradable, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly ingredients designed to minimize harm to people and ecosystems. Sustainable cleaning methods have been shown to reduce indoor air pollution, enhance occupant health, and lower environmental contamination. The EPA actively promotes greener cleaning through its Safer Choice program, which certifies products that contain ingredients safer for human health and the environment[1]. Products bearing the Safer Choice label are evaluated based on strict criteria ensuring safety across toxicity, environmental persistence, and bio accumulation potential[1].

Moreover, green cleaning products are specifically formulated to break down more readily in the environment, reducing water pollution and toxicity to aquatic life. Institutional adoption of green cleaning practices has been linked not only to health benefits but also to operational cost savings through reduced water and chemical usage, improved worker safety, and greater efficiency[23]. Environmental benefits are further reinforced by the elimination of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and reduction in VOC emissions, making these products especially suitable for sensitive environments like schools and healthcare facilities[10].

Improved Indoor Air Quality and Public Health

One of the most significant advantages of green cleaning is its positive impact on indoor air quality. By avoiding synthetic fragrances and harmful VOCs, green cleaning products help reduce the incidence of respiratory conditions such as asthma, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women[9]. Exposure to cleaning products in early life has been associated with an increased risk of childhood asthma and chronic wheezing, reinforcing the need for safer alternatives in homes and daycare centers[11].

Biodegradable and plant-based ingredients used in eco-friendly cleaning products are less likely to trigger allergic reactions or long-term health complications, making them ideal for use in schools, hospitals, and homes[5]. In schools, New York State has implemented guidelines for the use of green cleaning products in elementary and secondary institutions under Education Law §409-i, ensuring safer environments for both students and staff[29]. Furthermore, certified green cleaning practices often include comprehensive staff training and occupational safety protocols, which help protect custodial workers from hazardous exposures and reduce work-related illness rates[15].

Accessing Professional Green Cleaning Services

To support the transition to healthier and more sustainable cleaning practices, consumers and institutions can access directories of professional services committed to eco-friendly methods. The International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) provides a verified directory of commercial cleaning services that meet rigorous standards for sustainability, performance, and safety[2]. These providers are certified under the IJCSA Green Cleaning Certification standard, which requires the use of non-toxic and biodegradable products, waste reduction practices, and thorough employee training in green protocols[2].

By selecting services from such certified directories, individuals and organizations actively contribute to healthier indoor environments and a more sustainable future. Furthermore, governmental bodies offer tools and policies to assist institutions in implementing green cleaning programs. The New York Office of General Services (OGS), for example, has developed comprehensive guides outlining a five-step framework for building and launching a successful Green Cleaning Program[23]. These include official guidelines for schools, training manuals, and a list of approved green cleaning products under state regulations[22][30]. Additional state-level policies support procurement standards and ensure compliance with environmental benchmarks[31].

Conclusion

The shift toward green cleaning is not merely a trend but a necessary evolution in public health and environmental stewardship. Supported by robust scientific evidence, green cleaning practices reduce the incidence of respiratory illness, minimize ecological damage, and promote sustainable business operations. From the EPA’s Safer Choice certification[1] to institutional programs like those led by New York’s OGS[23], there are clear pathways for adoption. By prioritizing certified non-toxic, biodegradable, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions, and choosing service providers who adhere to rigorous green standards households, schools, and businesses can maintain hygiene without compromising human health or planetary integrity. Green cleaning represents a holistic approach to cleanliness, one that aligns sanitation with long-term sustainability and wellness for all living creatures.

References:
[1]: https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
[2]: https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services
[3]: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250327-is-it-healthier-to-use-household-cleaning-products-or-not
[4]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2020829/
[5]: https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/using-cleaning-products-may-raise-womens-risk-of-asthma-respiratory-conditions/
[6]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9059197/
[7]: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389850874_Effects_of_household_cleaning_products_on_the_lungs_an_update
[8]: https://www.jwatch.org/na57440/2024/05/21/asthma-can-be-exacerbated-household-cleaning-products
[9]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024004227
[10]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724081737
[11]: https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/study-frequent-use-cleaning-products-may-increase-risk-childhood-asthma
[12]: https://www.pharmacist.com/Blogs/CEO-Blog/household-cleaning-products-may-significantly-increase-uncontrolled-asthma
[13]: https://oem.bmj.com/content/oemed/78/8/604.full.pdf
[14]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9321745/
[15]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9250289/
[16]: https://oem.bmj.com/content/78/8/604
[17]: https://www.thoracic.org/professionals/career-development/residents-medical-students/ats-reading-list/adult/occupational-and-environmental-medicine.php
[18]: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022000964
[19]: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/21650799241284085?int.sj-abstract.similar-articles.1
[20]: https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1164/rccm.201706-1311OC
[21]: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ajim.23456
[22]: https://ogs.ny.gov/green-cleaning/green-cleaning-policies-and-guidelines
[23]: https://ogs.ny.gov/green-cleaning
[24]: https://ogs.ny.gov/greenny/introduction-green-cleaning
[25]: https://advantagecleaningllc.net/green-cleaning/nyc-green-cleaning-regulation/
[26]: https://ogs.ny.gov/green-cleaning/green-cleaning-other-state-and-federal-policies-and-guidelines
[27]: https://www.nyu.edu/life/sustainability/operations/purchasing/green-cleaning-policy-and-program-plan.html
[28]: https://www.eli.org/buildings/green-cleaning-schools-6
[29]: https://www.p12.nysed.gov/facplan/GreenCleaning/greenclean.htm
[30]: https://ogs.ny.gov/green-cleaning-training-manuals
[31]: https://advantagecleaningllc.net/green-cleaning/nyc-green-cleaning-compliance/