Why is it important for employees to know about bloodborne pathogens? The simple answer is that employees are the backbone of a cleaning company. Anyone who runs a cleaning company knows that if you have an employee who is fired up about doing his/her job, and doing it to the best of his/her ability, that is a valuable employee. That said, it makes sense that the company do what it can to help ensure employee safety, which includes making available to employees proper training in all aspects of cleaning, including on bloodborne pathogens. 

The importance of cleaning employees knowing about bloodborne pathogens is so they will recognize potential exposure situations and take proper safety precautions. To recognize potential exposure situations, and to know what precautions to take, employees should be properly trained. Making such training available will send the message to employees that the company cares about their safety, which could directly impact employee morale, company culture, and employee job satisfaction.

Bloodborne pathogen training can include a classroom style study program (DVD, online, etc.), on-the-job style training, or a combination of these. By recognizing potential bloodborne pathogen exposure situations, and taking proper precautions, employees can prevent possible contracting viruses, such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or HBV (Hepatitis B Virus). HIV is associated with AIDS, and HBV can result in complications of the liver, including cancer. The seriousness of these viruses mandates a high level of attention to potential bloodborne pathogen exposure. Employees should also know what steps to take if they believe they have been exposed, which include immediately notifying the supervisor and contacting a physician. Employees should also be aware of symptoms of HIV and HBV infections, which in some cases may not manifest for several years. 

In conclusion, employee training is an investment by the company that will pay off in the form of employee safety, fewer days of absence, employee morale, job efficiency, and a more positive company culture. With employees being the backbone of the company, proper training can lead to a more stable and profitable company.