It is essential as an employee or as a staff member to be proactive towards safety when dealing with blood clean up. If not, it may cost you your life.

   Blood borne pathogens are microorganisms in the blood. Not all blood is contaminated. This is why as a cleaning professional we assume all blood may be contaminated. The blood may be contaminated with hepatitis or HIV. Either could be life threatening. 

 When dealing with blood clean up it's best to follow OSHA clean up guidelines. First is having the proper protective gear.  Protecting eyes, nose and mouth area and gloves for the hands.  Proper disposal of linens and cleaning utensils, rags or mops is a must.  Last is disinfecting the affected area and disinfecting any mops, buckets or any other cleaning tools.  

Every employer is required by OSHA to have a written exposure plan and to keep records of each incident for a minimum of three years.  For more information contact your local OSHA for more details.

So remember, safety first when it comes to blood clean up and blood borne pathogen exposure.