Frequently Asked Questions
What is trauma and crime scene cleanup?
Trauma and crime scene cleanup is a specialized service focused on the safe and thorough removal of biohazardous materials from locations where traumatic events have occurred, such as homicides, suicides, unattended deaths, or accidents. This type of cleanup involves the handling of blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials, requiring strict adherence to health and safety regulations set by organizations like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). Our biohazard cleanup technicians are trained to disinfect and restore the area to a safe, livable condition while maintaining sensitivity and discretion, as these situations often involve emotional distress for those affected. The goal is not only to clean but also to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and eliminate any lingering physical reminders of the event.
Is it okay to perform crime scene cleanup on your own?
While it may be legally possible in some cases to perform crime scene cleanup on your own, it is strongly discouraged due to the serious health and safety risks involved. Crime scenes often contain biohazardous materials such as blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious substances that require specialized knowledge, equipment, and protective gear to handle safely. Without proper training and certification, individuals risk exposure to bloodborne pathogens and improper disposal of hazardous waste, which can lead to legal and environmental consequences. Our IICRC-certified technicians are specially trained to follow strict protocols set by OSHA and other regulatory agencies, ensuring that the area is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and restored to a safe condition. For the safety of everyone involved, it’s best to leave this type of work to experienced professionals, such as Midwest Trauma Cleanup.
How is biohazard remediation performed?
Biohazard remediation is a detailed and regulated process that involves the safe cleaning, disinfection, and restoration of areas contaminated by biological hazards such as blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious materials. The process begins with an assessment of the scene to determine the extent of contamination. Midwest Trauma Cleanup’s technicians use specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) and professional-grade cleaning agents to remove all visible biohazards. After the initial cleanup, the area is thoroughly disinfected using EPA-approved solutions to eliminate harmful pathogens. In some cases, affected materials like carpeting, flooring, or drywall may need to be removed and properly disposed of as medical waste. Finally, the area is tested to ensure it meets health and safety standards, and deodorization techniques are used to eliminate any lingering odors. The goal is to restore the space to a safe, livable condition while ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
Who cleans up the aftermath of a traumatic event?
The aftermath of a traumatic event, such as a violent crime, suicide, or unattended death, should be thoroughly cleaned up by professional trauma and crime scene cleanup specialists. Midwest Trauma Cleanup is an IICRC-certified trauma and crime scene cleanup company. All of our technicians are trained in biohazard remediation and follow strict safety protocols to handle and dispose of blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. Unlike what some may assume, this responsibility does not fall on law enforcement or emergency responders. Instead, private companies with certified technicians, such as Midwest Trauma Cleanup, are called in to ensure the scene is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and restored to a safe condition. We approach our work with compassion and discretion, recognizing the emotional toll such events can take on those affected.
How quickly can you respond after the initial call?
Midwest Trauma Cleanup responds quickly after the initial call, often within a few hours, depending on the urgency and the location. We offer 24/7 emergency services to address situations that require immediate attention, such as homicides, suicides, or unattended deaths. Upon receiving the call, our team will quickly assess the situation, gather necessary equipment, and arrive at the scene to begin the cleanup process. The speed of response ensures that the area is cleaned, disinfected, and restored as soon as possible, minimizing health risks and the emotional impact on those affected. However, the exact response time can vary based on the specifics of the incident and the company’s location.
What kind of certifications do your trauma and crime scene cleanup technicians have?
Crime scene cleanup technicians are required to have specialized training and certifications to safely and legally handle biohazardous materials. Midwest Trauma Cleanup’s technicians are certified in Bloodborne Pathogens and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) compliance, ensuring they understand how to properly handle, transport, and dispose of potentially infectious materials. They also complete training in hazardous waste operations and emergency response (HAZWOPER), which is regulated by OSHA. In addition, our technicians receive certifications in trauma and crime scene cleanup through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). These credentials ensure that cleanup is performed safely, thoroughly, and in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
How long does the trauma scene cleanup process take?
The length of the crime scene cleanup process can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the area, the type and extent of contamination, and the specific circumstances of the incident. In general, smaller cleanup jobs, such as those involving a single room with limited biohazard exposure, may take only a few hours to complete. However, more complex situations, such as unattended deaths, large crime scenes, or multiple affected areas, can take a full day or even several days to properly clean and restore. Our professional cleanup team works efficiently while following strict safety protocols and legal regulations to ensure the site is thoroughly disinfected and safe for occupancy. Our initial assessment can usually provide a more accurate estimate of the time required.
What happens to contaminated items after the cleanup?
Items contaminated at a crime scene, especially those soaked with blood or bodily fluids, are carefully assessed and handled according to strict biohazard protocols. If an item is deemed porous and cannot be thoroughly disinfected, such as mattresses, carpeting, or upholstered furniture, it is typically removed and disposed of as regulated medical waste. Non-porous items, like metal or plastic surfaces, may be cleaned and disinfected using EPA-approved solutions. All contaminated materials that are removed from the scene are placed in approved biohazard containers and transported to licensed disposal facilities. Midwest Trauma Cleanup follows all local, state, and federal regulations to ensure safe and legal handling, minimizing the risk of spreading infection or environmental harm. In some cases, salvageable personal items may be cleaned and returned, depending on the level of contamination.
Do I have to be present during the cleanup?
No, you do not have to be present during cleanup. In fact, it’s often recommended that you are not at the scene to allow our technicians to work efficiently and safely. Crime scene cleanup involves handling biohazardous materials, disinfecting, and restoring the space, which requires specialized training and equipment. Being present during the process may also be emotionally difficult for you, especially if the scene involves trauma or loss. Most cleanup companies will work with you to arrange a time for the job to be done while ensuring that all legal and safety protocols are followed. You can leave the scene in the hands of the professionals and return once it has been properly cleaned and restored.
Does insurance cover biohazard cleanup?
In many cases, homeowners or property insurance policies do cover biohazard cleanup, including trauma and crime scene remediation, but coverage can vary depending on the policy and the circumstances of the event. Most standard policies will cover the cost of cleaning and restoration after events such as unattended deaths, suicides, or crimes if the property was affected. However, it’s important for property owners to review their insurance details or speak directly with their provider to understand what’s included. Midwest Trauma Cleanup will work directly with your insurance company to help streamline the claims process and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for the property owner. If your insurance does not cover biohazard remediation, we will work with you on a payment plan and offer financing as well.
Is crime scene cleaning emotionally challenging for the technicians?
Yes, crime scene cleaning can be emotionally challenging for technicians due to the nature of the situations they encounter. They are often exposed to scenes involving death, violence, or severe trauma, which can be distressing even for experienced professionals. In addition to the physical demands of the job, technicians must also navigate the emotional weight of working in environments where families may be grieving or in shock. Maintaining a balance between compassion for those affected and the need to perform their duties thoroughly and professionally requires emotional resilience. Midwest Trauma Cleanup provides support and training to help our technicians manage the psychological impact of the work, emphasizing mental health and self-care as essential parts of the job.
Contact Us for Immediate Biohazard Cleanup
If you’re facing a traumatic event, crime scene, or hazardous contamination, you don’t have to handle it alone. Midwest Trauma Cleanup and Restoration is here to provide fast, compassionate, and professional biohazard cleanup services.
If you think you need assistance with trauma scene or crime scene cleanup in the Midwest, please reach out to us and call us 24/7 at 1-888-629-1222. Our IICRC-Certified Staff will help you understand how we can help. We’ve helped hundreds of people, let us help you!