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.  

Any workplace involving regular exposure to blood and other potentially contaminated bodily fluids need to understand workplace safety and have precautions and procedures set. These work places have a greater risk of bloodborne pathogens so these safety measures are even more important. These risks include exposure to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). These cane pose life threatening risks to cleaning employees and yourself. IJCSA offers certifications for employers and employees and OSHA has information about workplace procedures and protocols.

Everyone has to do their part in mitigating these hazards. IJCSA offers many certifications which also come with educational videos for employees to learn about these threats. OSHA also has workplace guidelines and protocols that companies have a legal obligation to follow to protect their employees. Some prevention methods including making sure your employees are certified. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be worn. Hazardous and contaminated materials will be handled and disposed of properly. A company protocol will also be available to all employees free of charge in case of an exposure. 

Not only are we ethically obligated to protect ourselves and our employees. We are legally obligated as well. That's why OSHA has regulations that companies must legally abide by or pay fines. Other than the legal consequences ethical consequences could lead to you or an employee being exposed to bloodborne pathogens which can come with life altering and even life threatening risks. That why its important to take the proactive measures to protect yourself, your business, and your employees.   

The medical cleaning process is essential for healthcare facilities to prevent the spread of germs, bacteria, pathogens, and viruses. Proper cleaning in these environments is crucial, as it directly impacts patient safety by reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and fostering a clean environment that supports patient recovery.

Additionally, maintaining cleanliness is vital for compliance with strict regulations and for ensuring the health of staff. Contaminated surfaces can harbor harmful pathogens that can easily transmit infections between patients and healthcare workers, making effective cleaning critical for infection control. Regular cleaning of workspaces and common areas protects healthcare staff from exposure to infectious agents, thereby promoting their health and well-being.

A clean environment helps reduce the risk of patients contracting infections during their stay, significantly contributing to overall patient safety. Healthcare facilities must also follow stringent cleaning and disinfection standards set by regulatory bodies to maintain accreditation and legal compliance. Finally, a clean and well-maintained healthcare facility reflects professionalism and can enhance patients' perception of the quality of care provided.

Topps Cleaning Service, along with other members of the International Janitorial Cleaning Service Association, has developed a specialized cleaning method tailored to meet the rigorous hygiene and sanitation standards required for hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. This method involves thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting all areas within a medical facility, including waiting rooms, patient rooms, bathrooms, as well as examination and operating rooms. To find a certified medical cleaning company in your area, please click on the link below.

www.ijcsa.org

William Armstead

Managing Partner

Topps Cleaning Service

www.toppscleaningservice.com

Janitors and janitorial staff play one of the most essential but often overlooked roles in maintaining the health, safety, and functionality of our everyday environments. From the buildings where we work and shop, to the schools where children learn, and the medical facilities where we receive care, janitorial professionals ensure each space remains clean, sanitized, and usable. Without their daily efforts, the places we rely on would quickly become unsafe, disorganized, and unsanitary. Their work forms the backbone of healthy communities, preventing the spread of illness and maintaining environments where people can thrive.

Beyond cleaning, janitorial professionals support public health in ways many people don't even realize. Tasks such as disinfecting high-touch surfaces, managing waste properly, using HEPA-filtered equipment, and maintaining restroom sanitation all significantly reduce exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, and allergens. In workplaces and schools, this leads directly to fewer sick days and greater productivity. In hospitals, clinics, and senior-care facilities, janitorial staff are a frontline defense against dangerous pathogens. Their training in bloodborne pathogens, green cleaning, and proper chemical handling ensures that buildings are not only visually clean but also truly safe for every occupant.

Janitors also contribute to the overall quality of life in meaningful, human-centered ways. They create environments that feel welcoming, well-maintained, and professional. A clean office lobby influences first impressions, just as a spotless classroom supports student focus and morale. Their presence provides comfort, knowing that someone is continuously working behind the scenes to protect the well-being of all who enter. In many ways, janitors are the quiet heroes of people’s daily lives and individuals whose dedication keeps society running smoothly, safely, and with dignity. Recognizing their importance elevates not only the profession but also the respect they deserve for the essential service they provide every single day.

It is important for cleaning employees to be aware of bloodborne pathogens and the risks that come from them. But first we need to understand what they are. Bloodborne pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms in human blood which include HBV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

It's essential for employers to have knowledge on the procedures that are used to be cautious to help prevent the spread of bloodborne pathogens. One way could be by taking special training classes to increase their knowledge on precautions they can take. Without these training classes the employees could be at risk of getting infected if the proper measures aren't taken.

In conclusion lmk following the right steps when dealing with body fluids/ blood could prevent life threatening diseases in the workplace. 

Finding the right home cleaning service can feel like a challenge, but with an IJCSA Member, you can feel confident you’re choosing the very best for your home and family. Each IJCSA-certified company is trained to deliver high-quality residential cleaning with a focus on safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. Whether you need help maintaining a busy household, preparing for guests, or simply keeping your home fresh and organized, IJCSA Members provide reliable, consistent service you can count on week after week.

IJCSA residential cleaning professionals are equipped with industry-approved training, updated certifications, and proven cleaning methods designed to protect your home and everyone in it. From routine housekeeping to deep/detail cleaning, move-in/move-out cleanings, allergen reduction, and full eco-friendly “green cleaning” options, members follow strict standards that ensure your living space is cleaned thoroughly and responsibly. With a focus on quality products, proper sanitation practices, and attention to detail, IJCSA Members create healthier, more comfortable homes for every lifestyle.

Choosing an IJCSA Member means choosing peace of mind. Homeowners receive transparent communication, flexible scheduling, and trustworthy professionals who respect their time, privacy, and property. Every IJCSA Member is committed to building long-term relationships rooted in honesty and dependable service. When you’re ready to simplify your routine, protect your home, and enjoy a cleaner, brighter living environment, let an IJCSA-certified residential cleaning provider guide you to the perfect solution. A cleaner home is just a phone call away, and experience the difference an IJCSA Member can make today.

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

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the silent efforts of janitors and janitorial staff often go unnoticed. Yet, these dedicated professionals play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness, hygiene, and overall functionality of the environments we rely on — from schools and hospitals to office buildings and public transit systems. Without their tireless work, workplaces would be unsanitary, classrooms would be chaotic, and healthcare facilities would become breeding grounds for illness. Janitorial services are not simply about sweeping floors or emptying trash; they are vital components of public health and safety.

The commercial cleaning industry has become even more essential in the post-pandemic world. The need for disinfecting high-touch surfaces, deep cleaning restrooms, and sanitizing communal spaces has placed janitorial staff on the front lines of health defense. Their responsibilities extend far beyond basic cleaning — they help prevent the spread of viruses, allergens, and harmful bacteria, making our everyday environments safer for all. From carpet cleaning to window washing and restroom sanitization, janitorial professionals perform specialized tasks that enhance comfort, prolong facility lifespan, and promote productivity in workspaces.

For businesses and organizations seeking reputable janitorial services, resources like the Janitorial Directory are invaluable. This platform connects users with trusted commercial cleaning companies across the country, ensuring high-quality service and reliable partnerships. Whether you’re a facility manager, a business owner, or simply someone who appreciates clean spaces, recognizing the value of janitors and janitorial staff is crucial. Their contributions may often be behind the scenes, but their impact is front and center in every clean surface we touch and every safe space we enter.

Commercial cleaners need to know about bloodborne pathogens because they can be dangerous. These are germs found in blood and body fluids that can cause serious sickness like HIV or hepatitis. Even if you’re not in a hospital, but you clean dental offices, or day surgery centers, or Walk-in clinics, you might clean up after accidents, sick people, or dirty bathrooms where these germs could be present.

Training helps workers learn how to stay safe. It teaches when to wear gloves, masks, and other protective gear, how to clean up spills the right way, and what to do if you get exposed. Knowing these steps helps prevent getting sick and keeps everyone safer on the job.

Employers must give this training for free and during work hours. But more importantly, it helps cleaning staff feel confident and protected. When you understand the risks and how to handle them, you’re better prepared to do your job safely and protect yourself and others.

Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood and bodily fluids that can lead to dangerous diseases in those who come into contact with them. Types of bloodborne pathogens include: HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. 

Those in the cleaning field are especially at risk for coming into contact with bloodborne pathogens since they may be tasked with cleaning up and sanitizing areas where bodily fluids were present. 

OSHA (The Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has created industry standards which help employers and employees create a plan to remain safe on the job. By understanding the dangers of bloodborne pathogens and adhering to OSHA guidelines, employees can decrease their risk of exposure and do their jobs safely and effectively.

Clean Freaks is excited to announce that we are now officially IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified, proving our commitment to providing safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible cleaning services. Through the IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certification Program, we gained in-depth knowledge about the harmful effects of toxic cleaning chemicals and how they impact human health, indoor air quality, and the planet. The course taught us about proper green cleaning techniques, the benefits of using eco-friendly products, and how to reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. We also learned how small changes—such as switching to microfiber cloths, biodegradable cleaners, and energy-efficient equipment—can make a big difference for both our clients and the environment.

One of the most interesting aspects of the course was learning how green cleaning not only protects the environment but also improves health and productivity. Many traditional cleaning chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to respiratory problems, allergies, and long-term health risks. By using certified green products and sustainable cleaning methods, Clean Freaks can now ensure safer air quality and healthier indoor spaces for our customers. The IJCSA also provided valuable resources on waste reduction, recycling, and the importance of using concentrated cleaning solutions to minimize plastic waste—helping us do our part to fight global issues like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

By implementing everything we learned from the IJCSA Master Green Cleaning course, Clean Freaks is not only protecting our planet but also saving money and operating more efficiently. Green cleaning methods reduce the need for harsh chemicals, lower equipment maintenance costs, and minimize waste disposal fees. Energy-efficient practices and water conservation techniques have further reduced our operating expenses while boosting sustainability. When you hire Clean Freaks, you’re supporting a company that genuinely cares about the environment, your health, and the future of our planet. Visit the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory to learn more about certified green cleaning professionals like us—because together, we can make a cleaner, greener world!