How Much Do Crime Scene Cleaners Make?

Have you ever wondered what crime scene cleaners make and if the job is right for you? If cleaning up crime scenes seems appealing to you, there are many variables to consider first. Crime scene cleaning is a job that requires a certain kind of person, skill, and demeanor. 

Whether crime scene cleaning is a good job or not is subjective and can depend on individual preferences, skills, and experiences.

What is a Crime Scene Cleaner?

A crime scene cleaner, a biohazard remediation technician, is a trained professional who specializes in cleaning and sanitizing crime scenes, accident scenes, and other locations where hazardous materials may be present. Their job involves removing and disposing of hazardous materials, such as blood, bodily fluids, and other biological materials that may contain harmful pathogens.

Crime scene cleaners must follow strict protocols and safety procedures to ensure that they protect themselves and others from exposure to hazardous materials. They use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected areas, and they may also need to remove and dispose of contaminated materials, such as carpeting or furniture.

In addition to crime scenes, biohazard remediation technicians may also be called upon to clean up after suicides, homicides, unattended deaths, hoarding situations, and other traumatic events. They play an important role in restoring the affected areas to a safe and habitable condition, and helping families and communities recover from these difficult situations.

The skillset of a crime scene cleaner requires both soft and technical skills. Crime scene cleaners are often faced with offering condolences to grief stricken family members while also managing biohazardous waste scenes. The utmost consideration for families on traumatic scenes is important, and if a biohazard remediation technician can’t handle the pressure, it can be a bad situation. We are all human, and these things affect us. The question is if an employee can handle that kind of pressure and not let it bother them on a psychological level. 

Factors to Consider

The following are bullet points to consider when thinking about becoming a crime scene cleaner. It’s important to think hard about these specifics and really consider if this job is right for you. Because the work can be emotionally draining and just plain hard, it can also take a toll on your well-being— or maybe not. Again, it depends on the person.

Pros:

Rewarding Work
Crime scene cleaning involves helping people during difficult times and making spaces safe and habitable again. It is possible to give the people you serve a second chance at living in their spaces again.

Everyday is Different
Crime scene cleaners may work on a wide range of sites, from residential homes to commercial properties, and each job can be different. If you are a person who gets bored easily, this could be a great career fit for you.

Security
Unfortunately, crime happens everywhere, so there is always a need for crime scene cleaning services. Biohazard remediation offers job security and constant cash flow. If consistent pay is of the utmost importance to you, you surely won’t run out of work in this field.

Median Salary
As mentioned earlier, the median annual wage for hazardous materials removal workers, which includes crime scene cleaners, is $43,900. This number has changed with inflation over the years, and of course varies based on where you live and who you work for.

Professional Opportunities
Crime scene cleaners can work their way up to supervisory roles or start their own cleaning business. It is common for business savvy folks to begin their own company after spending some time getting experience working for someone else’s. Crime scene cleaning companies not only gain popularity and repertoire for how well they clean, but also how compassionate and kind they can be to their clients. This kind of compassion and fortitude can only be learned through experience on the job.

Cons

Emotionally Exhausting
As previously mentioned, crime scene cleaners often work in environments where traumatic events have occurred, which can be emotionally challenging. Seeing folks in their hardest times of their entire life can be very hard to witness.

Physically Demanding
Cleaning up crime scenes can be physically demanding, with long hours spent on one’s feet and lifting heavy objects. This job requires a lot of physical activity and a ‘can do’ attitude, as sometimes it takes longer to clean things up than expected.

Dangerous
Crime scenes can be contaminated with biological and chemical materials, which can pose health risks if not handled properly. Although biohazardous remediation techs are trained at length to protect themselves, the consequences can be severe if a mistake is made. There is very little room for error when it comes to protecting yourself against contaminants that can become life-threatening.

Wacky Hours
Crime scene cleaners may need to work irregular hours, including overnight and on weekends, to accommodate the needs of their clients. Since accidents don’t happen on a schedule, a crime scene cleaner has to be available on off hours. Chances are, though, that the company you work for will have specific shifts you can count on.

Salary

The salary of a crime scene cleaner can vary depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and the company they work for. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for hazardous materials removal workers, which includes crime scene cleaners, was $43,900.

The lowest 10 percent of workers in this occupation earned less than $28,350, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $76,080 per year. It’s worth noting that crime scene cleaners may also be paid on an hourly basis, and their hourly rate can range from $15 to $50, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Some people may find crime scene cleaning rewarding and fulfilling, while others may find it emotionally and physically demanding. It is important to carefully consider all factors before deciding if it is the right career path for you.

How To Remove Cat Urine From Carpet

Cleaning up cat urine is a task anyone would avoid if they could. However, if you have been given the chore of cleaning up cat urine— fear not. Experience in animal urine allows us to confidently guide you in effectively removing cat urine from the carpet.

But first, let it be known: cat urine can be very dangerous for your health. You can read more to learn why cat urine threatens your well-being and when to call a professional for help. However, unless you are in a cat or animal hoarding situation, chances are you’ve got this on your own.

Just remember to wear gloves and a mask. And play some music, too, to distract yourself from the nasty task at hand. 

Why Cat Pee Smells

Like most anything made of organic matter, cat urine has a decomposition process. The longer the urine has sat in the carpet, the more foul it may smell. After a while, bacteria in the cat urine begins to decompose. 

That ammonia smell? The smell that feels like acid on your nose? That smell is the bacteria in cat urine. When that smell becomes pungent, that means the cat urine has begun its decomposing process. While the cat pee reaches the second and third stages of its decomposition, it releases mercaptans — the crucial compound in what gives skunks their skunk-y smell. 

Male cats that have not been neutered will emit an extra smelly urine because they have hormones in their pee. The hormones add an extra layer of smell as the urine settles into the carpet and begins to grow stale. 

The longer that cat pee sits, the worse it will smell. So if you think the smell is already terrible, you better get to work before the stench becomes unbearable.

When Cat Pee is Dangerous

Cat urine has a ton of ammonia in it, and ammonia is a toxic gas that can really make things messy in your brain. Ammonia in cat urine is known to be the cause of headaches and bring about asthma attacks.

In some extreme cases of inhalation, feline pee can give people respiratory issues like pneumonia. People with weak immune systems (consider children, elderly people, those with immunity issues) pose a higher risk of infection from ammonia when exposed. 

Unfortunately, it gets worse.

Cat urine is notorious for causing roundworms. Roundworms are nasty little parasites that live inside of cat poop. Why are we mentioning this? Because if you are dealing with cat urine, chances are you might be picking up some cat poop, too. Roundworms like to burrow in cat poop and can move on to burrowing inside of humans, too. Roundworms can lead to diarrhea, weight loss, throwing up, and much more. 

If you are immuno-compromised and are exposed to excess cat urine and animal feces, hire professional help. The risk to your health is not worth it.

Now that we have probably grossed you out further than you already were, let’s get into the removal. 

Step 1

If the cat urine in the carpet is fresh, blot the mess with a towel. Make sure to get as much of the urine out of the carpet as possible by soaking up the urine with said towel. Apply pressure to the towel so that you can soak up urine that has settled on the backing of the carpet. 

Step 2

Rinse the area. Be meticulous with your rinsing. Make sure to use a fresh rag while you are rinsing out the area so that you are not circulating urine from the rag back into the carpet.

Tip: don’t use a steam cleaner, because heat may set the stain.


Step 3

Purchase an enzyme cleaner to douse the area with. If the enzyme cleaner you have selected comes in a spray bottle, open the spray bottle up and pour directly into the urine. You want to make sure you soak the area with enzyme cleaner— not just dust the top of the carpet with spray. 

Don’t be afraid of using too much product. Remember, cat urine is potent and strong. You will need to bring out the big guns for this one!

Step 4

After you have doused the area with enzyme cleaner, let the cleaner sit for a while. Consider about 10-20 minutes. When the cleaner has sat for the appropriate time period, soak the enzyme cleaner up with a fresh cloth. 

If you find that the area still smells after you’ve cleaned up the urine, repeat this process. You may have to repeat this process a few times for older stains that have decomposed for a long time. 

Alternatives

If you would prefer to use an all-natural solution rather than a store bought enzyme cleaner, you can use vinegar and water. Use equal parts vinegar and water in a bucket and use the same steps. 

What To Get a Clean Freak for Christmas

Clean freaks are… particular. Let’s be honest about that. If you or someone you know takes cleanliness to a whole other level, then we are sure you agree with us. Clean freaks like their stuff and space to be germ-free, smell good and be spotless. 

And as The BIOClean Team, ‘germ-free’ and ‘spotless’ is our job.

When on-site, we utilize specific chemicals to disinfect a biohazardous area properly. But when we’re in our personal lives at home, or cleaning other kinds of messes, we might choose to use softer products instead.

Whether in our personal lives or on the job, we’ve used many different cleaning agents. Some of us prefer to use a more natural and gentle approach in our homes, while others are steadfast bleach users. One thing is for sure: The BIOClean Team are definitely the experts when it comes to getting things squeaky clean. 

Now back to the clean freak that you’re shopping for. 

What if he or she won’t settle for Bleach and Comet? What if the cleanest person in your life loves natural cleaners without the harsh chemicals? Or maybe it’s the opposite; they want to kill germs with fire, with the most acidic chemical they can find. 

Whatever their style, rest assured that we have the perfect Christmas gift for the germaphobe in your life — no matter the chemicals they like to use to kill bacteria. 

Air Freshners 

A clean freak loves to keep their home smelling lovely. Air fresheners come in all kinds of modalities, like plug-ins to spray bottles. Depending on their preference, your clean freak friend or loved one might like one over the other.



Natural Oil Diffusers

For some, a commercial plug-in air freshner is terrible. Since most regular plug-ins are made from artificial scents and chemicals, they can be harsh on the nose.

If your clean-freak-friend is one of those people, we highly recommend using an oil diffuser. You can purchase any oil diffuser on Amazon, Target, or wherever else you like to shop for home goods. A great price point for an oil diffuser is about $20-45 dollars. Make sure to pair the oil diffuser with something bright, like a citrus blend for that super-clean-smell. 

Plug Hub Warmer


Ever heard of a Plug Hub Warmer? These awesome plug ins warm up a scent that is evenly distributed throughout a space. It’s eco friendly, cruelty free, and made with zero toxic chemicals. Plug Hub Warmers are excellent for the clean freak in your life who has kids, pets, or is especially cautious about burning candles and the toxins they omit. If you’re looking to wow your all-natural friend, give them a Plug Hub Warmer. 

Grout Cleaner

Everyone has that friend who is unsettled unless their floors are clean. That same person is also the individual who looks forward to spring cleaning, or cleans when they are stressed out. If the cleanest person you know is one of these people, the following is for them.

As clean freaks ourselves, we find few tasks as satisfying as cleaning grout lines. Cleaning grout lines delivers an unmatched instant gratification. And we have a sneaking suspicion that your clean-freak-friend might feel the same way, too.

Drum roll please..

 

Battery-Powered Power Scrubber and Grout Brush Head 

Isn’t she beautiful? As all-things-squeaky-clean obsessed, this power brush is exciting.This power scrubber looks like a tooth brush, is easy to hold, and makes a noticeable difference quickly. The head of the brush can reach in corners, crevices, and weird shaped spaces. You can use the ‘pulse’ setting or the ‘continuous’ setting, depending on what is being cleaned. In short: it gets hard jobs done with ease.

Best part?  You can snag it on Amazon for less than $30. 

Sparkling Countertops 

Have you ever heard of Grove.co? Grove is a sustainable and natural product company that sells chemical free cleaning agents. Although you won’t find harsh chemicals in their products, your friend will notice how well they work and how good they smell.

Grove Countertop Cleaning Set

This bundle of cleaning goodness is bound to spark some holiday joy. The sturdy backing on the sponges are made of tough-as-nails walnut shells. The glass spray bottle is double walled and made to last, with a silicone sleeve to protect dings. The all-purpose cleaner comes in a 2 pack and lasts a long time. Snag this awesome gift set for only $18.95 on Grove.co. 

Shower Power

Cleaning showers can be quite tedious, even for those that love to put in the work to make it their bathroom shine. And although giving cleaning chemicals to a friend might seem weird, your clean freak buddy will thank you for this one.

 

Wet and Forget Shower

Give your friend or family member the gift of convenience with this wet and set shower cleaner. This shower cleaner is going to allow the debris and build up from showering break down while you clean it the next day. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a spotless bathroom space without the hassle of cleaning everyday. Perfect for busy people or those with kids. 

Pick up this little jug of magic online at Home Depot for $21. 

We hope this little list of goodies was helpful in helping you pick out the perfect gift for the clean freak in your life. Happy holidays! 

Why Animal Feces Removal Is Dangerous

Cleaning up after our pets each day poses very little threat to our health. But when conducting animal feces removal from a hoarder’s home or where animals may have been abandoned, the situation can become dangerous. Read below to learn how animal feces removal and urine removal can impose a risk to your health and the health of others.

Animal Feces Removal

Having canines comes with the job of cleaning up poop from time to time—it’s just a fact of life. Some might even say that it’s a small price to pay in comparison to the joy dogs bring to our lives. But when canine owners leave dog feces sitting for an extended period of time to accumulate, the situation can become a health risk to pets and the people who take care of them.

Diseases People Can Contract From Dog Feces

1. Campylobacteriosis

Ever heard of Campylobacteriosis? Campylobacteriosis is a bacterial disease humans can contract from dog poop, and it’s anything but pretty. This nasty disease includes symptoms like diarrhea, fever, extreme cramps, and pain in the abdominals. 

Campylobacteriosis generally lasts for a week, but for those with weaker immune systems, campylobacteriosis can last for much longer. Immunocompromised individuals can experience life-threatening infections if this bacterial disease makes its way to their bloodstream

2. E. coli

Much like campylobacteriosis, E. coli is a very real and potentially life-threatening bacteria that can cause mayhem in the body. Symptoms are synonymous with what one would experience with campylobacteriosis: nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever. However, E. coli poses an even more serious infection for weakened immune systems and can end in death.

3. Salmonellosis

Did you know you can contract Salmonellosis from dog poop? Salmonella is not just a bacterial disease humans can contract from undercooked food. This nasty infection can be transmitted through animal feces as well, specifically dog poop.

4. Yersiniosis

Yersiniosis is another bacterial infection that is usually detected in the water. Never swim in water where animal feces may have contaminated the space. 

Unfortunately, it gets worse.

Tapeworm

Parasites

Among an array of especially disturbing parasites, tapeworms and roundworms are the most common cause for concern when it comes to dog poop. Roundworm makes its way into the human body where larvae can travel to the brain, heart, eyes, lungs, and kidneys. Roundworm larvae can also cause a person to lose their vision. 

While tapeworms won’t bring about blindness or infect your heart, they can still do an insurmountable amount of damage. Tapeworms like to seep into the human body through the skin, infecting their victims through the pores. Tapeworms like to attach to a person’s intestines and suck the nutrients from the tissues.

Cat Urine

If you have a cat, know a cat, or have ever spent time with a cat, you probably know that their urine smells foul. That foul-smelling odor is ammonia, which is a toxic gas that can make someone sick pretty quickly. When cat urine is not cleaned up, it solidifies, making the concentration of ammonia higher. That’s why cleaning up cat urine, especially urine that has sat for a long time is considered dangerous to your health. 

Cats are able to transmit a bacterial disease called Toxoplasma Gondii, which can cause severe to life-threatening health risks—especially for pregnant women. 

People who are not pregnant and do not have compromised immune systems usually experience Toxoplasma Gondii like they would the flu. Sore muscles, a headache, and swollen lymph nodes can last for weeks to months. Those with weaker immune systems, like pregnant women, endure much more serious and life-threatening symptoms. Pregnant women may experience miscarriages. Babies exposed to Toxoplasma can be born stillborn or with abnormally large or small heads.

When To Call Us

It’s important to know when you need the help of a professional and when you can take on the issue by yourself. If you consider cleaning up a hoarder’s home, or a place where animals have been left inside for long periods of time, don’t risk your health doing so. 

Without proper protection, removing animal feces and urine can cause life-threatening illnesses that don’t go away overnight. These bacterial diseases can diminish a person’s quality of life for a long time, or even potentially take a person’s life, depending on the exposure.

If you’re unsure of the right way to handle your animal waste problem, we invite you to give us a call. The BIOClean Team happily serves Southern California and Las Vegas.

 

 

When To Hire a Biohazard Cleanup Company

First Off, What Is a Biohazard Cleanup Company?

A biohazard cleanup company is an organization that removes biohazardous waste from commercial, industrial, and residential spaces. Biohazardous waste includes human body fluids, microbiological waste, sharps, pathological waste, and animal waste.

These types of waste are dangerous to people, animals, and the environment, which is why it’s important to know when you can clean up a situation on your own or when you need to hire a professional cleanup company. 

Biohazard Cleanup companies are trained and licensed professionals who understand different types of waste and what exactly to do with each kind of waste. The cleanup crew will enter the site of the space in protective gear, armed with the tools necessary to disinfect and clean the area affected. These individuals follow state rules and regulations in order to keep people safe and healthy.

Can You Clean up Animal Waste By Yourself?

We’ve all cleaned up after our pets at home, but when does animal waste become dangerous? In most instances, animal waste becomes dangerous in hoarder/animal hoarder situations and with poorly managed livestock.

When urine and feces accumulate in a hoarder’s home, they emit ammonia, bacteria, and viruses that can become airborne—making them unsafe to handle without the help of a biohazard cleanup crew.

In some extreme hoarding situations, dead animals can get lost in the home and those carcasses attract insects and rodents that carry diseases. Cleaning a hoarder’s home poses health risks on its own, and shouldn’t be done without the help of a professional cleanup team. However, if you’re cleaning a hoarder’s home and notice animal waste or animal body parts, you should call a licensed cleanup company immediately to handle the situation instead. 

Cat urine is especially dangerous.

Chances are that you’ve smelt the strong odor of cat pee before. This smell is a chemical called ammonia, and when cat urine sits for a long time, this chemical becomes concentrated. All feces and urine can transmit bacterial infections to humans, but cat urine is the culprit of Toxoplasma Gondii; a nasty disease that can cause pregnant women to experience miscarriages or give birth to stillborn babies. 

In short: if there are animal body parts, carcasses, an excessive accumulation of feces and urine, or contaminated animal bedding, you should call a cleanup company to do the dirty work for you!

Cleaning Up Blood And Bodily Fluids

It’s important to know when it’s safe to clean up blood and bodily fluids and when it’s not. If you’ve scratched your knee or cut your finger, you’re probably just fine to clean up the blood on your own. But things change when there is a traumatic accident to clean up. Traumatic accidents happen anywhere and everywhere humans are, which can make cleanup especially tricky. 

Blood is a biohazard because it may contain pathogens that can spread disease if not disinfected immediately, and correctly. When serious accidents take place, including anything from a crime scene to suicide, the blood left behind becomes a threat to public safety. 

Do not clean up traumatic events that include blood, human tissue, or body fluids by yourself. There is a life-threatening difference between cleaning up a scraped arm and cleaning up human remains and blood. Biohazard cleanup teams are trained and licensed through the state to do this kind of work for you.

This ensures others are safe from pathogen exposure, disease, and airborne illnesses.

When Mold Becomes Dangerous

Depending on where you live, mold can be common. But how do you know when it’s time to bring an expert in? Generally, if the moldy spot is 3 square feet or smaller, you can potentially take care of it yourself. If the mold is growing past those dimensions, though, it’s time to call in a biohazardous clean-up company.

Mold happens for a myriad of reasons, but one of those reasons can be a leak in your waterline somewhere. A water restoration company might be able to remedy the issue for you, but if not taken care of right away, the situation can grow into a very serious threat to your health. 

Symptoms from exposure to mold can take time to develop. Common symptoms range anywhere from asthma attacks to headaches, to difficulty breathing. Some side effects can last for a long time and can greatly affect your quality of life. 

If you see mold in your home, call a professional immediately to figure out what actions need to be taken. An expert will help you to decide what to do next, but in most cases, do not try to clean up mold on your own. It’s simply not worth the risk.

We’re the Biohazard Cleanup Team You Need

We pride ourselves on being the team you can call to handle the worst days of your life — and the most challenging tasks you’ve ever faced.  From traumatic accidents to sewage leaks, we’re the folks you can trust to get the job done. 

Contact us today for questions, concerns, and more information about your waste needs and how we can help. We’re here to help 24/7, 7 days a week.

Here at The BIOClean Team, we operate by one simple rule: service first. 

Crime Scene Cleanup – When Disaster Strikes

Crime scene cleanup is a critical process that is often overlooked in the aftermath of a crime. Crime scene cleanup refers to the process of cleaning and sanitizing a crime scene after law enforcement officials have completed their investigation. Crime scene cleanup can be a dangerous and emotionally challenging task, and it requires specialized training, equipment, and expertise. In this blog post, we will discuss how the crime scene cleanup process works, including the role of law enforcement officials and professional cleanup crews.

Role of Law Enforcement Officials

The first step in the crime scene cleanup process is the investigation by law enforcement officials. Police officers, forensic investigators, and other law enforcement officials are responsible for securing the crime scene, collecting evidence, and conducting a thorough investigation. Once the investigation is complete, law enforcement officials will release the scene to the property owner or manager.

Role of Professional Cleanup Crews

Professional cleanup crews play a critical role in the crime scene cleanup process. These crews are specially trained to handle hazardous materials, including blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards. The cleanup crew is responsible for thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing the crime scene to ensure that all biohazards are removed and that the area is safe for use. They also work to deodorize the area to eliminate any lingering odors.

The Crime Scene Cleanup Process

The crime scene cleanup process typically begins with an assessment of the scene. The cleanup crew will evaluate the extent of the damage and the level of contamination to determine what equipment and cleaning supplies will be needed. They will also assess any potential hazards, such as structural damage or electrical hazards, to ensure that the cleanup can be conducted safely.

The next step is to remove any hazardous materials, including blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards. The cleanup crew will use specialized equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE), to remove and dispose of these materials safely. They will also use cleaning agents and sanitizers to clean and decontaminate the area.

Once the area has been cleaned and sanitized, the cleanup crew will begin the deodorization process. This involves removing any lingering odors from the crime scene to ensure that the area is safe for use. This may involve using specialized equipment, such as ozone generators or air scrubbers, to remove odors.

The final step in the crime scene cleanup process is the disposal of any hazardous materials. The cleanup crew will carefully package and label all hazardous materials, including biohazards and other hazardous materials, to ensure that they are disposed of safely and in compliance with local regulations.

 

Collaboration with Law Enforcement Officials

Professional cleanup crews work closely with law enforcement officials to ensure that the crime scene cleanup process is conducted safely and in compliance with local regulations. They will coordinate with law enforcement officials to ensure that the scene is released for cleanup as soon as possible and to ensure that the cleanup does not interfere with the ongoing investigation. Cleanup crews will also document the cleanup process and provide a detailed report to law enforcement officials for their records.

 

Conclusion

Crime scene cleanup is a critical process that requires specialized training, equipment, and expertise. The crime scene cleanup process typically begins with an assessment of the scene, followed by the removal of any hazardous materials, cleaning and sanitizing the area, and deodorizing the space. Professional cleanup crews work closely with law enforcement officials to ensure that the cleanup is conducted safely and in compliance with local regulations. Crime scene cleanup can be a challenging task, but it is an essential part of ensuring that crime scenes are cleaned and sanitized and the area is safe for use.

Homeless Camps, Why They Happen, and Why Experts Tackle Them

Homeless camps are a growing problem in many cities and communities around the world. These makeshift communities are often located in public spaces such as parks, under bridges, or in vacant lots, and they are typically inhabited by people experiencing homelessness. While homeless camps may provide temporary shelter for those who are struggling to find housing, they also pose significant dangers to both the residents and the surrounding community. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and dangers of homeless camps.

Causes of Homeless Camps

Homelessness is a complex issue that has many root causes. Some of the most common causes of homelessness include poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Homeless camps often arise when people are unable to find safe and stable housing and are forced to seek shelter in public spaces. In some cases, homeless camps are also created by people who prefer to live off the grid or away from traditional housing options.

Dangers of Homeless Camps

Homeless camps pose several dangers to both the residents and the surrounding community. Some of the most significant dangers of homeless camps include:

Health Risks: Homeless camps often lack access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and waste management. This lack of access to basic hygiene facilities can lead to the spread of diseases such as hepatitis A, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. The presence of vermin and pests, such as rats and mosquitoes, can also pose additional health risks for the people in the camp and the surrounding community.

Fire Hazards: Homeless camps often use open flames for cooking and heating, and many residents use propane or other combustible fuels to power their equipment. This creates a significant risk of fire, especially in areas with dry vegetation or other combustible materials.

Environmental Damage: Homeless camps can cause significant damage to the surrounding environment, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. The accumulation of trash and waste can also attract vermin and pests, leading to further environmental damage.

Crime and Violence: Homeless camps can attract criminal activity, including drug use and trafficking, theft, and violence. The lack of security in homeless camps can also put the residents at risk of assault and other forms of violence.

Public Safety: Homeless camps can create hazards for the surrounding community, including increased traffic, pedestrian safety concerns, and the risk of accidental injury or death.

Homeless camps are a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. While homeless camps may provide temporary shelter for those experiencing homelessness, they also pose significant dangers to both the residents and the surrounding community. The root causes of homelessness must be addressed to prevent the creation of homeless camps in the first place. Communities must also work to provide safe and stable housing options for those experiencing homelessness and to provide access to essential services such as healthcare and mental health support. Homelessness is a problem that affects us all, and it is only through working together that we can create a safe and stable future for everyone.

If you have a homeless camp that needs to be cleaned up after, give The BIOClean Team a call. We know how to handle it and how to get the ball rolling.

Hazmat Cleanup – What to Know

Hazmat, short for hazardous materials, are substances that pose a significant risk to human health and the environment. Hazmat cleanup is the process of safely removing and disposing of these dangerous materials. This is a critical service that protects the public, the environment, and the workers responsible for handling these hazardous substances. In this blog post, we will discuss the types of hazmat cleanup, why it can be dangerous, and the precautions necessary for a safe cleanup.

What is Hazmat Cleanup?

Hazmat cleanup is the process of identifying, containing, and removing hazardous materials that pose a risk to public health and the environment. Hazmat cleanup typically involves the removal and disposal of hazardous waste from commercial, industrial, and residential properties. This type of cleanup is often necessary after natural disasters, chemical spills, or illegal dumping.

Hazmat cleanup involves various types of hazardous materials, including chemicals, biological substances, radioactive materials, and explosives. These materials require specialized equipment, training, and certification to handle safely. Cleanup teams typically include trained professionals who specialize in the safe removal and disposal of hazardous materials.

Types of Hazmat Cleanup

There are several types of hazmat cleanup, including:

Chemical Spill Cleanup

Chemical spills are one of the most common types of hazmat cleanup. Chemical spills can occur in industrial facilities, transportation accidents, and storage facilities. Chemical spills can cause fires, explosions, and environmental contamination. Chemical spill cleanup involves identifying and containing the spill, removing the hazardous materials, and decontaminating the affected area.

Biohazard Cleanup 

Biohazard cleanup involves the safe removal and disposal of biological materials, such as blood, bodily fluids, and tissues. Biohazard cleanup is necessary in situations such as crime scenes, unattended deaths, and infectious disease outbreaks. Biohazard cleanup requires specialized equipment, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), and rigorous decontamination procedures.

Asbestos Abatement 

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s. Asbestos abatement involves identifying and removing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) from buildings. Asbestos abatement is necessary to prevent exposure to airborne asbestos fibers, which can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.

Why Hazmat Cleanup Can Be Dangerous

Properly handled hazardous waste cleanup is a critical service that protects public health and the environment. It involves the safe removal and disposal of hazardous materials, including chemical spills, biohazardous waste, and asbestos-containing materials. It can be dangerous due to the risk of exposure to hazardous materials, fire, explosion, and environmental contamination. Workers must take precautions to protect themselves and the environment, such as wearing PPE, using specialized equipment, and following decontamination procedures. Hazmat cleanup is an essential service that requires specialized training, certification, and equipment to perform safely and effectively.

 

That’s why you call The BIOClean Team. 

The BIOClean Team adheres to OSHA, EPA, and the California Department of Public Health rules and regulations to ensure the safety of our crew, as well as you and your family (and anyone else coming to the scene post-incident). We do rigorous testing to ensure there are no contaminants upon departure and can issue a certification of decontamination with our testing method for resale, insurance purposes, rental of premises, or just peace of mind. We are Licensed, Insured, and Bondable

All of that is to say the BIOClean Team is here for you. Let us help.

What are the Stages of Decomposition

We have witnessed the aftermath of death and the various stages of decomposition that occur in the human body. These stages can be both fascinating and horrifying, but understanding them is important for forensic investigations, public health, and funeral services. In this blog post, we will discuss the stages of decomposition and what happens during each of them.

Autolysis

The first stage of decomposition is called autolysis, which begins immediately after death. During this stage, the body’s cells begin to break down and release enzymes that cause the tissues to soften and liquefy. This process results in the release of gases, such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, which contribute to the foul odor associated with decomposition.

During autolysis, enzymes within the body begin to break down cells and tissues, resulting in the release of gases and the softening and liquefaction of the body’s organs. This stage typically lasts for several hours to a few days, depending on various factors such as the temperature of the environment and the individual’s overall health.

Bloat

The second stage of decomposition is known as bloat. As gases continue to accumulate in the body, it begins to swell and become discolored. This stage typically occurs within the first week after death and is characterized by the appearance of a bloated abdomen, discoloration of the skin, and the onset of rigor mortis.

During bloat, gases continue to accumulate within the body, causing it to swell and become discolored. The skin may take on a greenish hue, and the abdomen may become so bloated that it appears to be ready to burst. This stage usually lasts for around a week, but it can vary depending on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity.

Active Decay

The third stage of decomposition is known as active decay, which begins approximately one week after death. During this stage, the body’s tissues continue to break down and liquefy, resulting in a release of even more gases. The skin and hair will begin to slough off, and the body will become covered in a layer of maggots and other insects that feed on the decomposing flesh.

During active decay, the body’s tissues continue to break down, resulting in a release of even more gases and the formation of a layer of maggots and other insects. The skin and hair will begin to slough off, and the body will become increasingly unrecognizable. This stage can last for several weeks or even months, depending on environmental conditions.

Advanced Decay

The fourth stage of decomposition is called advanced decay, which occurs roughly three weeks after death. At this point, most of the body’s soft tissue has been consumed by insects and other scavengers, leaving only the bones and cartilage behind. The body will have a greasy appearance, and the odor will be significantly less intense than during previous stages.

During advanced decay, most of the body’s soft tissue has been consumed by scavengers, leaving only bones and cartilage behind. The body will have a greasy appearance and will no longer emit a strong odor. This stage can last for several months, depending on environmental conditions.

Skeletonization

The final stage of decomposition is known as dry or skeletonization. This occurs after several months or years, depending on environmental conditions. During this stage, the body’s bones will become dry and brittle, and any remaining tissue will be reduced to a black, leathery substance. Eventually, the bones themselves will begin to break down, leaving only small fragments behind.

Finally, during dry or skeletonization, the body’s bones will become dry and brittle, and any remaining tissue will be reduced to a black, leathery substance. The bones will eventually begin to break down, leaving only small fragments behind.

No matter which stage decomposition is in, it’s leaving a mess. If you’ve found a decomposing body in your home or property, you need to call the professionals to safely remove, clean, and restore your space. That’s where The BIOClean Team comes in. Give us a call today and get your home or property back on the right track.

What Does a Dead Body Smell Like?

Note that this topic may be sensitive or uncomfortable for some readers. Reader discretion is advised.

What does a dead body smell like? It’s a question that many people may wonder about but are afraid to ask. The answer, unfortunately, is not pleasant. When a human body begins to decompose, it releases a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can create a pungent odor that is often described as “rotten,” “foul,” or “sour.” In this blog, we’ll explore the science behind the smell of a dead body, including the factors that can influence the odor, and why it’s important to recognize and respond to the odor in certain situations.

The Science of Decomposition

 

When a human body dies, it begins to decompose. This process involves the breakdown of tissues and cells by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, as well as chemical reactions within the body. As the body decomposes, it releases a variety of gases and compounds, some of which are responsible for the odor associated with decomposition.

 

One of the primary compounds responsible for the odor of a decomposing body is cadaverine. Cadaverine is a diamine compound that is produced by the breakdown of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins in the body. As the body decomposes, cadaverine is released and can create a strong, putrid odor that is often described as being similar to rotting meat.

 

Another compound that contributes to the odor of a decomposing body is putrescine. Like cadaverine, putrescine is a diamine compound that is produced by the breakdown of amino acids. It has a similar but slightly less intense odor compared to cadaverine.

 

In addition to these compounds, a variety of other VOCs are released during the process of decomposition, including skatole, indole, and sulfur-containing compounds. These compounds can contribute to the odor of a decomposing body and can also give clues to forensic investigators about the time of death, the manner of death, and other details about the deceased person.

 

Factors that Influence the Odor

 

The odor of a decomposing body can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the temperature, humidity, and location of the body. In general, higher temperatures and humidity levels can accelerate the rate of decomposition, which can lead to a more intense odor.

 

The location of the body can also influence the odor. For example, a body that is left in a sealed room or in a confined space can create a more intense odor compared to a body that is left in an open area with good ventilation.

 

The age, weight, and health of the deceased person can also influence the odor of the decomposing body. A body that is heavier or has more body fat may decompose more slowly, while a body that is very young or very old may decompose more quickly.

 

Why Recognizing the Odor is Important

 

Recognizing the odor of a decomposing body can be important in a variety of situations. For example, if you are a first responder, police officer, or other emergency personnel, recognizing the odor can help you locate a deceased person who may be hidden or difficult to find. It can also help you determine the time of death and other details that may be relevant to an investigation.

 

In addition to forensic investigations, recognizing the odor of a decomposing body can also be important in other situations. For example, if you are a landlord or property manager, recognizing the odor can help you identify if there is a dead animal or other source of odor in a rental unit. Similarly, if you are a homeowner, recognizing the odor can help you identify if there is a dead animal or other source of odor in your home.

Once the odor has been noted, it’s important to call the proper authorities and, if it’s at a home or property you own or manage, give a call to a biohazard cleanup crew who can get your house back to safety. That’s where we can help!  Call The BIOClean Team today!

The BIOClean Team services Southern California and Las Vegas