Biohazard cleanup, also known as forensic cleanup or crime scene cleanup, is a process of removing potentially infectious material from a site. However, this task is not limited to crime scenes. It also includes situations where a contaminated site has caused a health risk to people and the environment. In order to avoid cross contamination, biohazard cleanup is performed in stages to ensure the safety of those involved.
Stages of biohazard cleanup
Biohazard cleanup is a process that requires thorough sanitation and disinfection of the affected area. This is essential because there are many pathogens lurking beneath the surface of the biohazard materials. This contamination can lead to life-threatening illnesses for people who come in contact with these materials. Using hospital-grade disinfectants is an excellent way to safely address biohazard contamination.
The CDC defines biohazard as “any biological material that is hazardous to human or animal health or the environment.” These materials can be contaminated by human pathogens, animal pathogens, or laboratory created DNA.
Equipment required for biohazard cleanup
Biohazard cleanup is a difficult task that requires the right equipment and trained personnel. Since biohazards may contain pathogens, it is essential to properly dispose of the biohazard materials and ensure that the contaminated areas are completely sterile. Biohazard cleanup requires the use of disinfecting chemicals, testing kits, and specially designed tools.
The equipment required for biohazard cleanup varies according to the type of biohazard. It may include heavy-duty hazmat bags or solid plastic containers. Professional crime scene cleaners use filtered respirators and gloves. They also use ozone machines and foggers to combat odors. In addition, crime scene cleaners use hospital-grade disinfectants.
Safety measures to prevent cross-contamination
Biohazards are biological substances that can cause illness or even death if they are not handled properly. They include bloodborne pathogens (bacteria and viruses), as well as other potentially infectious materials. If left untreated, biohazards can set off epidemics. For example, some strains of E. coli can survive up to 15 weeks on wet surfaces and up to four days on hard surfaces. These bacteria are found in almost everyone and can cause serious illness. In fact, each year, approximately 405 Americans die of E. coli.
The first step in biohazard cleanup is to isolate the area. The affected area should be cleaned and disinfected. If glass containers are involved, they should be placed in sharps containers or biohazard bags. All other surfaces should be disinfected.
Cost of biohazard cleanup
Biohazard cleanup can be expensive and time-consuming. There are many factors that affect the cost of biohazard remediation. For example, blood and other blood-borne pathogens are more costly than other biohazards, and the type of surface that needs to be cleaned also affects the cost. Some surfaces are porous, which adds an extra challenge to biohazard cleanup.
Thankfully, most homeowners insurance policies cover biohazard cleanup. These policies consider the cost of biohazard cleanup an emergency repair and may cover the whole cost of the work.
If you need biohazard clean up, crime scene clean up or any other hazardous waste removed in Phoenix, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale or the surrounding area call us.
