What is the Purpose of Forensic Cleaning?



The purpose of forensic cleaning is to remove any biological material from a crime or trauma scene and restore it to a livable condition. Doing so safely often requires specialized equipment and knowledge that the average population does not possess. This article will explore forensic cleaning further and help you choose a forensic cleaning company that you can trust.

Forensic Cleaning FAQ

When families are faced with a tragedy at home, they often have questions regarding the impending cleanup. Below are some answers to some of these questions.

When would someone request the services of a forensic cleaning company?

If your home, business, or property has been contaminated with potentially biohazardous material, it is recommended that you reach out to a forensic cleaning company for assistance. Forensic cleaning companies are trained in local and federal rules and regulations which impact  returning your property to a livable condition. They can safely handle the cleanup of:

  • Suicides
  • Unattended deaths
  • Hoarding situations
  • Communicable disease contamination
  • Homicides
  • Tear gas incidents
  • Other traumas

Why shouldn’t I attempt to clean a site myself?

Exposure to potentially infectious materials (PIM) can cause serious illness or disease if the blood or body fluids that you are exposed to are infected with bloodborne pathogens.

Some bloodborne pathogens of concern include:

  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
  • Hepatitis B and C (HBV, HCV)
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

What precautions do forensic cleaners take to protect themselves and others from potential infection?

  1. Contamination control. Before forensic cleanup begins, the technicians establish three zones: The control zone (where the cleanup takes place), the buffer zone (where technicians put on personal protective equipment), and the clean zone (where technicians store their equipment). The purpose of forensic cleaners establishing these three zones is to prevent cross contamination of the worksite and help prevent the transmission of potential bloodborne pathogens.
  2. Personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE includes goggles, shoe coverings, biohazard suits, respirators, and double layer gloves.
  3. Vaccinations. Before beginning work, most forensic cleaners are required to get HBV and HCV vaccinations.

Where can I find a trustworthy and reliable forensic cleaning company?

Aftermath is a forensic cleaning company with almost 20 years of experience; they employ a systematic approach to cleaning that ensures every trauma scene meets or exceeds hospital-grade sanitation standards.

The purpose of a forensic cleaning team is not only to restore a site after a violent crime or accident, but to also help relieve some of the burden placed on the families left behind. Aftermath believes no one should have to suffer the process of cleaning after a traumatic event.. If you would like more information about Aftermath and the services we provide, our representatives are available 24/7 to assist you. Contact today.

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Sources:

http://www.siue.edu/orp/compliance/biosafety/definition.shtml
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/clostridium-difficile-colitis
http://www.aftermath.com/contact-24-7-365/