Knowing about bloodborne pathogens can prevent serious illness or death. Bloodborne pathogens are viruses or bacteria present in human blood and body fluids, which can cause disease in humans. The most common illness caused by bloodborne pathogens are Hepatitis B virus(HBV) and the human Immundeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes aids. Any contact with infected blood or body fluids carries the risk of infection.

It is important for cleaning officials to know how to take proper precaution while performing cleaning duties in order to prevent exposure. Personal protective equipment should be worn by officials during activities which may result in exposure to bloodborne pathogens. It is very important to treat all blood and body fluid spills as if infectious. 

Without proper training cleaning officials are at risk of contracting life threatening diseases. Taking the right training and using all the preventative measures can save lives. All Cleaning officials should read and understand the Oregon occupational safety and health division (OSHA) on bloodborne pathogens to ensure the safety of them selves and others.