The recent outbreak of Ebola has put into perspective the importance of having safety procedures in place when dealing with infectious or possibly infectious patients, objects, spills, or waste. The CDC has outlined detailed guidelines regarding personal protective equipment and safe handling procedures for health care professionals treating infected Ebola patients. However, this attention to safety and personal protection should extend beyond just health care workers.

Cleaning professionals can also be occupationally exposed to pathogens, especially when tackling areas like restrooms or locker rooms. Protecting one’s health is important, whether you are potentially being exposed to Ebola or a less pathogenic infectious disease. It’s important to have precautions in place to minimize or restrict contact with any bodily fluids or surfaces that have been contaminated with bodily fluids.

Pathogens that are spread through contact with bodily fluids
Ebola virus
HIV
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
Norovirus

Pathogens that are spread through skin contact
MRSA/CA-MRSA
VRE
VISA
H1N1/Influenza

When cleaning a public restroom, locker room, or other area, use the following steps to minimize exposure to any potentially harmful infectious diseases:
1. Wash hands before beginning with hot water and soap
2. Wear gloves and protective eyewear or goggles
3. Don’t put anything on a counter or floor until after it has been cleaned or disinfected.
4. Clean and disinfect toilets, urinals, fixtures, sinks, and other surfaces before the floor
5. If there is a large spill, such as urine or sweat, soak it when paper towels and immediately dispose of them into the trash. Clean and disinfect the area afterwards
6. Dispose of gloves into the trash when finished and wash hands with hot water and soap

For a complete procedure for restroom sanitation, check out Multi-Clean’s Restroom Care Method Bulletin

For more information about Ebola virus, visit the CDC Website. Multi-Clean’s Infection Control Webpage is a great resource for information about infectious pathogens, disinfectant products and kill claims, and cleaning procedures.