The knowledge and understanding of bloodborne pathogens by cleaning employees is important for a multitude of reasons. the improper handling of blood, bodily fluids, or items contaminated with said liquids can lead to our employees becoming ill with a HIV, HIB, or other known bloodborne illnesses.

Knowing that these illnesses can be transmitted through a break in the skin, or mucus membranes is very important. A needle stick or a bite from an infected patient can transmit an illness, but so can touching a contaminated surface with your bare hands and then touching your eyes or mouth. That is why strict adherence to PPE protocol  is important. The proper use of gloves, goggles, and hazmat suits when the need is there will go a long way in keeping an employee safe. 

Of course, even the best and most strict usage of PPE is useless unless paired with common sense. This is why we must implement rules to our employees that certain things are never allowed while working near bloodborne pathogen locations. Things such as eating, drinking, applying lip balm are always a no go. 

When we stress the importance of all different aspects of safety around blood and bodily fluids, we can help ensure our employees are healthy, and happily working with us for a long time. After all, the main goal around blood and blood products is saftey.