All equipment and work surfaces that could become contaminated should _____.

The correct response highlights the critical need for a routine cleaning and decontamination protocol for all equipment and work surfaces that could potentially become contaminated with bloodborne pathogens. This approach is essential to ensure a safe work environment and mitigate the risk of infection. Regular cleaning reduces the likelihood of pathogen survival on surfaces and minimizes the potential for transmission through indirect contact.

In a healthcare or laboratory setting, it is not sufficient to clean equipment and surfaces only when they appear visibly soiled, as pathogens can be present even when surfaces look clean. Additionally, periodic cleaning does not ensure that pathogens are consistently managed, nor does it provide a proactive approach to infection control. While having certified personnel can be important for specific tasks, routine cleaning and decontamination can typically be performed by trained staff, reinforcing the importance of a standardized practice that everyone adheres to. Thus, establishing a routine for cleaning and decontaminating surfaces helps ensure compliance with safety protocols and protects both staff and patients from potential exposure to infectious materials.