Knowledge of proper handling procedures is a vital tool for working around Blood borne Pathogens. The use of Universal precautions is not only very important but actually life saving. Blood Borne Pathogens can easily spread infections such as Hep C or HIV. Being aware of how to safely work within the standards set forth by OSHA is something all workers should be trained on.

I found this training course to be more than adequate in providing me with the general knowledge needed to not only work with but to train my workers in the proper handling of infectious materials. Knowing to handle laundry as lest as possible and knowing that sharps containers and proper disposal of hazardous materials are but a few things needed to know for all employees made getting this training worth every penny.

I feel more comfortable with not only the handling of but the proper removal of Blood Bourne Pathogens after reviewing materials from this course training.

Pungent cleaning chemicals were introduced in the 1940s for removing tough stains both on white textiles and in ovens. The experience of spring cleaning was harsh on noses, eyes and throats.

VOCs and other chemicals released when using cleaning supplies contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergic reactions and headaches. 

Now, more organic and environmentally-friendly cleaning solutions are emerging. For dust stains on cotton curtains and drapes, use white vinegar and water to remove discoloration. Shine chrome furniture with cider vinegar, which is also great at removing pet odors.

Household chemicals can affect more than just the person using them. According to the EPA, household chemicals and other factors can make the air within a home more seriously polluted than the air in even the largest and most industrialized cities.(1)

Many common household cleaners can contain ammonia, phosphates, chlorine and other known offenders. Ecosense contains no ammonia, no phosphates, no chlorine and is made from all natural, biodegradable products.

Hello everyone, my name is Mavis Buzugbe  owner of Royal Choice Cleaning services LLC. Clifton Park New York.  We are into commercial and residential cleaning services. I feel so blessed to be a member of this association. Thanks. 

Many household cleaners contain chemicals, some of which are toxic and can cause short term health problems such as skin and eye irritations when you use them.

Some chemicals in cleaning products have been linked to asthma, and have been identified as asthma triggers.

Some cleaning products contain chemicals that are linked to reproductive harm, this includes decreases in fertility, menstrual changes, changes in the onset of puberty, cancers of reproductive organs, miscarriage, premature birth and other effects. Scientists believe that chemical exposure can adversely affect the reproductive system.

Instead, try the following green cleaning recipes:

All purpose cleaner can be made with 2 cups white vinegar and 2 cups water. Add 20 drops of essential oil if desired. Use on counter-tops, kitchen floors, windows and mirrors.

Toilet bowl cleaner – Sprinkle toilet bowl with baking soda, drizzle with vinegar and let soak at least 30 minutes before scrubbing with toilet bowl brush. Soak longer on stubborn stains

Find a green cleaning certified provider at the IJCSA provider directory.

Find Professional Certified Green Cleaning Companies Here >>

Being green certified is very important to us at Diamon-Jan LLC. We're dedicated to providing a safe work environment for our team and clients. 

• We will put our plan in written.
• Update and purchase any equipment that's not eco-friendly
• Purchase only Certified Green Products
  
• Train our team using IJCSA Green Cleaning Certification

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Just last week, my Property Manager friend relayed the nightmarish incident of having hired a ‘professional’ carpet cleaner to come and remove a massive pink stain that her most recent tenant had left.  She sat and watched as the ‘professional cleaner’ saturated the stain with an unknown cleaning agent and then rubbed the solution vigorously into the stain, essentially spreading the pink color and deepening its hue.  When he was finished, he declared that there was nothing more that could be done for the stain, and that it had simply been set too far into the fibers.  What’s more, he told her that she was still responsible for the bill!

Don’t be stuck in her position!  There are many individuals out on the market who claim to be professional carpet cleaners - who we naturally assume have the knowledge and training necessary to effectively care for our carpets.  Had my friend hired an IJCSA certified carpet cleaner, she would have experienced a much different result.  An IJCSA certified carpet cleaner would have utilized the proper amount of cleaning solution and would have employed proper cleaning methods to effectively remove the stain.  Hiring an IJCSA certified carpet cleaner removes all risk that you will be stuck with an untrained ‘professional’ who will charge you to further damage your carpet.  There are industry standards which should always be followed, and without the IJCSA seal of certification, there are simply no guarantees.  Make the smart choice, and check out the IJCSA carpet cleaning directory today!

Learn how to become a safe green cleaning company and all the advantages it will provide you. 

Did you know that cleaning products, unlike food, cosmetics, and other personal care products, are not legally required to list their ingredients?  That’s right, cleaning products are NOT regulated by the FDA!  Furthermore, the average household has approximately 65 chemicals stored in it, most of which have been linked to asthma, cancer, hormone disruptions, and birth defects.  How are we to determine, then, what is harmful or not, of all the products on the market?  The only way to be fully protect ourselves is to reduce our exposure to these chemicals and to stick with natural green products.  Natural green products are designated as safe and free of any harmful or abrasive toxic chemicals.

We will start with standard all purpose cleaners, which typically contain a whole host of dangerous toxins.  The common ingredient, 2-butoxyethanol, is known to cause dizziness, headaches, confusion, lightheadedness, and to irritate the nose, eyes, throat, and mouth.  In contrast, why not use a comparable green product - 'Simple Green Pro Herbal Scent Antibacterial Cleaner and Disinfectant'?  This product kills 99.9% of germs, meets the OSHA bloodborne pathogens standards, fully sanitizes and disinfects surfaces, and kills viruses.  There is nothing that a standard all-purpose cleaner can do, that simple green will not do.  Why pose a risk to your health, when it can be avoided? 

Glass cleaners are another culprit.  Many standard glass cleaners on the market contain Isopropyl Alcohol, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and can provoke asthmatic episodes involving coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.  In contrast, the Simple Green Glass Cleaner is just as effective as any standard glass cleaner, restoring a streak-free shine to any window, mirror, or other reflective surface.  It meets the Green Seal GS-37 Standard, which verifies its reduced healthy, safety, and environmental risk as a green product.  When posed with the option, why choose a standard glass cleaner that contains VOCs which adversely impact the air quality and the health of our lungs? 

Those who are drawn to cleaning products with ‘delicious’ fragrances should be made aware that these scents are created through the use of noxious chemicals.  These synthetic fragrances conceal under their sweet scent a slew of toxic agents that have been linked to cancer, birth defects, nervous-system disorders, and severe allergens.  Allergy sufferers often find that their symptoms become much worse with the use of these synthetic scents.  Why not use essential oils instead?  Essential oils have been known to boost the immune system, balance out hormone levels, heal digestive disorders, and dramatically reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.  The choice is clear!

There are a few more toxic ingredients found in common household products that everyone should be aware of.  Chlorine bleach, which is probably the most common one, can bring severe irritation to the lungs and eyes.  Ammonia can burn the skin on contact and is poisonous when swallowed.  Sodium hydroxide, which is often found in drain, metal, and oven cleaners, can also burn the skin on contact, and is extremely irritating to the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.  Sodium lauryl sulfate, a common ingredient in many personal care items, has been linked to cancer, neurotoxins, skin irritation, and organ toxicity. 

The list doesn’t stop there,but goes on and on.  The only way to be entirely safe is to reduce your exposure to these dangerous toxins, and to commit fully to using green products.  For a list of IJCSA green-certified professional cleaners, please visit the directory below:

https://ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services

Mold becomes a health hazard when inhaled and can cause numerous health issues such as The growth of mold has the potential to produce mycotoxins. The amount and types of mycotoxins depend heavily on environmental and genetic factors. Though the EPA has no regulatory guidelines on mold or airborne mold spores, over 200 different types of mycotoxins have been identified. Identifying mycotoxin producing mold is not possible to tallergies, hay fever like symptoms, rashes or irritants to the eyes, skin, nose, throat and lungs.

Mold can also potentially produce microbial Volatile Organic Compounds (mVOCs). These compounds produce the moldy smell often found in some buildings. Though the effects of inhaling mVOCs are unknown, they have been linked to headaches, dizziness, vomiting and fatigue.

The use of biocides such as bleach may kill mold, but as dead mold is an allergenic, reactions may occur necessitating in the removal of the mold as well.

Even though mold is part of our environment, the effects of mold can be hazardous. Though there is much to be learned as research in this field is ongoing, IJCSA has numerous members who are well informed of the effects of mold on one’s health and how to remove mold from homes and offices.

IJCSA members are well versed in the tools and processes used to remediate mold. Tools such as a wet vac to remove standing water, a moisture meter to locate potential mold growth, a hepavac or high efficiency particulate air vaccum to remove mold spores from the air, as well as other personal protective equipment designed to keep mold from the skin and lungs which protect remediators in the field.

Flood water damage carries its own hazards such as damage to structural integrity and requires a different skill set. IJCSA has a flood damage directory which will help to guide you to the proper professionals.