Trauma scene cleanup is a specialised field that requires extensive knowledge and training. If you have experienced a traumatic event and need the area cleaned up, it’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare for the crew.
This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to know about trauma scene cleanup. We’ll discuss what services are included, the types of biohazards that can be present, and the health and safety risks associated with this type of cleanup. We’ll also provide tips on how to contact a professional trauma cleanup company in your area.
What is a traumatic event that would require a trauma cleaner?
A traumatic event is any situation that causes physical or emotional harm. This could include a natural disaster, an act of violence, a suicide, or even the death of a loved one. In the context of requiring a trauma cleaning specialist, if you have experienced any type of trauma and need the area cleaned up, it’s important to contact a professional trauma cleanup company due to the health and safety risks associated with it.
Trauma cleaning specialist Graham Hickman from Complete Environmental Services explains “Thankfully the majority of the UK population will never need to contact a trauma cleaning company but this also means people often don’t know where to start looking for help as they don’t know anyone who’s used such services. This is further compounded by people, understandably, tending to not share such traumatic personal experiences. So with no point of reference or very little awareness it can be very difficult to know where to start and unfortunately the person seeking help is likely to be in an emotional state due to the service’s very nature.”
What services do trauma scene cleaners offer?
A trauma scene cleaner typically offers a range of services, which can vary depending on the company. However, most companies will offer the following services:
- Initial assessment and evaluation
- Mitigation and remediation of biohazards
- Decontamination of the area
- Sanitisation and disinfection
How long does a typical clean take?
The length of time it takes to clean a trauma scene will depend on the severity of the event and the size of the area that needs to be cleaned. However, most companies will aim to have the job completed within 24 hours.
What are some tips for contacting a professional trauma scene cleaner?
If you need to contact a professional trauma scene cleaner, here’s 4 helpful tips that you should know:
- Do your research: Not all companies are created equal, so it’s important to do your research and find a reputable company that has experience cleaning up traumatic events. Speaking to any trauma cleaning company for basic advice should be with no obligation to use their services, all reputable cleaners will be happy to offer free no obligation advice.
- Get a referral: If you know someone who has used a trauma scene cleaner in the past, ask for a referral. If you speak with a trauma cleaner, ask them for references.
- Contact your insurance company: Many insurance companies will have a list of trauma scene cleaners that they work with, so it’s worth contacting them for a recommendation.
- Contact your local police station: Local police will often have a list of trauma scene cleaners that they are able to recommend.
What are the health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup?
There are many health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup. Some of the most common risks include:
- Bloodborne pathogens: These are viruses or bacteria that can be present in blood and other bodily fluids, and can cause serious illnesses such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
- Chemical hazards: These are substances that can be found at a trauma scene, such as cleaning products, pesticides, and lead.
- Biological hazards: These are materials that can cause infection, such as saliva, vomit, and urine.
- Physical hazards: These are objects that can cause injury, such as broken glass or sharp metal.
How can I protect myself from the health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup?
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from the health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup:
- Avoid the area: Don’t enter the contaminated area unless you know it is safe to do so.
- Seek advice from your trauma cleaner specialist: Every situation is unique, however the very first thing to do is ensure you do not put yourself or others in harm’s way so please follow the specialist’s advice.
What to do if you have to enter the contaminated area?
- Wear gloves: Always wear gloves when cleaning up a trauma scene, as this will help protect you from bloodborne pathogens.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE): Eye protection, a mask, and overalls should also be worn when cleaning up a trauma scene.
- Clean up any spills: If you do come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids, clean it up immediately using hot water and detergent. Dispose of the materials in a biohazardous waste container.
What are some common symptoms of exposure to health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup?
Some common symptoms of exposure to health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup include:
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Respiratory problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headaches
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
What is trauma scene cleanup and what services does it include?
Trauma scene cleanup is the process of cleaning and decontaminating a location where a traumatic event has occurred. The services typically include blood and bodily fluids cleanup, crime scene cleanup, and death Scene cleanup.
How to prepare for a trauma cleanup crew for a home visit?
If you have experienced a traumatic event and need the area cleaned up, it’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare for the crew. Here are some tips if you experience a traumatic event at home such as discovering the death of a loved one:
- Contact your insurance company to see if trauma scene cleanup is covered under your policy.
- Make sure all children, family members and pets are out of the contaminated area.
- Remove any valuables or personal items from the area.
- Do not use any food or drinking sources from the contaminated area.
- Close all windows and doors.
The types of biohazards that can be present at a trauma scene?
There are many different types of biohazards that can be present at a trauma scene, including blood, bodily fluids, tissue, and vomit. These biohazards can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can pose a serious health risk to those exposed.
The health and safety risks associated with trauma cleanup?
There are many health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup, including exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses, skin irritations, and respiratory problems. It’s important to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when cleaning up a trauma scene.
How to contact a professional trauma cleanup company in your area?
If you need the services of a professional trauma cleanup company, there are several ways to contact one in your area. You can call your local police station and ask for referrals, or you can search online for “trauma scene cleanup” or “crime scene cleanup” in your area.
In conclusion, trauma scene cleanup is a necessary but potentially dangerous service. It’s important to do your research and contact a reputable company, and to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the health and safety risks associated with trauma scene cleanup. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak to your trauma cleaner specialist.
We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your time.
