Which of the following should you assume about fluids encountered during cleanup?

The correct answer is that you should assume fluids encountered during cleanup may be contaminated. This is important for several reasons, primarily concerning health and safety. Fluids can carry various pathogens, chemicals, or biological hazards depending on their source. For example, spills from bathrooms or kitchens might contain bacteria or viruses, while industrial sites may have hazardous chemicals.

By assuming contamination, you are more likely to take necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper cleanup procedures. This proactive approach helps in minimizing the risk of exposure to harmful substances, ensuring a safer environment for both the cleaner and others in the vicinity.

Other options suggest that fluids are clean, should be ignored, or only contain water, which can lead to complacency and increase the risk of accidents or health issues. It’s critical in any cleanup scenario to always err on the side of caution and treat fluids as potentially hazardous.