Experiencing a traumatic event in your home or business can be extremely distressing. Whether it’s a crime scene, suicide, unattended death, or hoarding situation, you need compassionate professionals to handle the aftermath properly. As the homeowner or business owner, this guide will provide you with information on who to call for help and what steps to take during this difficult time.
Who to Call for Trauma Cleanup
Professional Crime Scene Cleanup Companies
- Specialized companies like Aftermath Services LLC have extensive training and tools for biohazard remediation, including bloodborne pathogen cleanup and odor elimination.
- They follow OSHA regulations for proper disposal of contaminated materials.
- Many companies are available 24/7 and can deploy rapidly to start remediation.
- Request liability insurance and licensing documentation upfront.
- Average cost ranges from $500 to $5000 depending on the extent of contamination.
Why Avoid Do-It-Yourself Cleaning
- Improper cleanup can expose you and others to health hazards from bodily fluids.
- Contaminated areas may still contain biohazards even after the body is removed.
- The psychological impact can be traumatic without professional support.
Other Recommended Services
- For hoarding cleanup, professional organizers can assist in sorting, recycling and waste disposal.
- For smoke and water damage, experienced restoration contractors can properly dry affected areas and remedy odor issues.
- Mold remediation companies can contain and eliminate mold growth and prevent further spreading.
Initial Response: First 24 Hours After Discovering a Trauma Scene
Contact Law Enforcement
- Alert police immediately upon discovering a suspicious death or violent crime scene.
- Do not disturb or contaminate the scene prior to police investigation.
- Cooperate fully with any inquiry and avoid altering or cleaning any areas.
Address Safety Hazards
- Check for dangers like exposed wires, leaks, broken glass, etc.
- Rope off unsafe areas, display caution signs, or have occupants evacuate if needed.
- Contact emergency services like the fire department to evaluate and mitigate risks.
Limit Access
- Keep family, staff, and public away from potentially contaminated areas.
- Secure entrances to restrict access until cleanup crews arrive.
- Avoid spreading contamination further throughout the premises.
Cleaning Process: What Certified Companies Will Do
1. Document and Photograph Scene
- Take images of all affected areas before and during remediation.
- Create a record of what contaminants are present.
- Use this documentation to guide proper waste disposal.
2. Remove Contaminated Materials
- Remove and properly dispose of flooring, drywall, or other absorbent surfaces containing bodily fluids or hazardous chemicals.
- Contaminated furniture or belongings may also need disposal if they cannot be thoroughly cleaned.
3. Clean and Disinfect All Surfaces
- Use EPA-registered disinfectants effective against bloodborne pathogens.
- Clean from top to bottom, moving inward from least to most affected areas.
- Pay meticulous attention to small crevices that may retain contamination.
4. Odor Control and Ventilation
- Open windows when possible to ventilate the area during cleaning.
- Apply odor neutralizers and air scrubbers if odors persist after disinfection.
- Negative air machines may be required for extensive odor issues.
5. Documentation and Waste Disposal
- Obtain a certificate of sanitation once the area is fully remediated.
- Medical waste must be incinerated by an approved, licensed facility.
Trauma Scene Cleaning FAQs
How long does the cleanup process take?
- For a small contained area, cleanup may take 2 to 3 hours. More extensive scenes with porous materials or odor issues can take 24 hours or longer spanning multiple visits.
What are the costs involved?
- Between travel fees, equipment, personnel hours, and waste disposal, trauma scene cleaning can cost $500 to $5000 depending on size and severity. Get a written estimate upfront.
When can I re-enter the scene?
- Avoid the area until cleanup crews give the all-clear. Re-entering too soon exposes you to potential health hazards.
Does insurance cover these services?
- Cleanup costs may be reimbursable depending on your policy coverage. Keep all receipts and documentation to submit your claim.
Dealing with the aftermath of a trauma event can be deeply distressing. By calling on compassionate, experienced professionals for crime scene and trauma cleaning services, you can ensure proper remediation so you can move forward in the grieving and healing process. With the right help, the physical environment can be restored so you have one less burden to bear during a painful time.
