Cleaners play an important role in maintaining safe environments, but their job goes beyond just tidying up. In certain settings, such as healthcare facilities or public buildings, cleaning employees are at risk of encountering bloodborne pathogens—diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV that are found in human blood. OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires that cleaning staff receive proper training to handle these risks and keep themselves and others safe.

Training ensures that cleaning employees understand how to safely handle potentially contaminated materials, like sharps or blood-soaked waste, and dispose of them correctly. They must also be taught how to use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, to reduce exposure risks. Additionally, employees need to know decontamination procedures to disinfect surfaces properly, following the right protocols to prevent infections from spreading.

Without this training, employees are more likely to accidentally come into contact with harmful substances, putting themselves and others at risk. Employers are required by law to provide annual training, and it's an investment that not only keeps employees safe but also ensures compliance with OSHA’s standards. By educating staff on bloodborne pathogens, businesses create a healthier and safer environment for everyone.