If You’re Cleaning Blood Stains, Ask Yourself These 4 Questions



Cleaning blood stains on your own? Blood can be one of the hardest stains to get out. You may have tried everything – vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, soap and water – and yet those pesky blood stains still manage to elude you. Before you jump right into cleaning up a blood stain, however, answer these 4 questions:

Four Questions to Ask Before Cleaning a Blood Stain

cleaning blood stains aftermath cleaning blood from carpet with sponge and glove

  1. On what type of surface is the blood stain? The way you approach a fabric stain will differ greatly from the way you approach a stain on a hardwood floor.
  2. Has the blood stain already settled? Fresh blood is much easier to clean than dried blood.
  3. To whom does the blood belong? Because blood is potentially pathogenic and is considered a biohazard, handling any amount of blood can be dangerous.
  4. How much blood is there? Large amounts of blood, such as the result of a violent crime, major accident, or suicide, require much more than a simple mop and bucket and should be handled by trained professionals.

How to Clean Up Blood Yourself

If the amount of blood is smaller than a dinner plate and you feel you can handle it on your own, there are specific precautions you should take to protect yourself and others:

  1. To prevent spreading blood to unaffected areas, block off the area and do not allow anyone near it until it is completely clean.
  2. Wear latex gloves.
  3. Purchase a registered disinfectant product that has a broad spectrum kill claim. These are easily found from a janitorial company. Do not use bleach.
  4. Follow the manufacturer’s directions. Allow the recommended cure time.
  5. After cleaning the area, disinfect all mops and brushes and let them air dry. It is best to dispose of any rags used in the cleanup process.
  6. Throw away gloves and other disposable products in the trash, being sure to double bag it and securely tie it shut.

Hiring the Professionals at Aftermath

Oftentimes, cleaning up blood and other biohazardous waste is just too much for an untrained individual to handle. Not only does the risk of potential biohazards and bloodborne pathogens threaten you and your family’s health, but the blood may have seeped into areas you can’t see — which can create even further damage to your home and increase the risk of potential pathogens to grow.

By hiring a professional bioremediation company, you are not only protecting yourself but are also ensuring that the area is properly cleaned, the waste is properly disposed of, and that you are in compliance with all EPA and OSHA regulations.

Aftermath is the nation’s leading biohazard company and is dedicated to easing emotional trauma for those dealing with a suicide, homicide, or unattended death in their home or business. Check out our FAQ page to learn more.

———-

Source:

Culture of Safety: http://www.cultureofsafety.com/safety-tips/proper-blood-clean-up/