Forensic cleaners are a highly important service to the public to ensure health and safety after a traumatic event. Therefore, forensic cleaning professionals undergo extensive training and certification to understand the correct procedures and cleaning methods for biohazard exposure scenes.
Forensic cleaners, often referred to as crime scene cleaners or biohazard remediation technicians, deal with potentially hazardous situations on a daily basis. Proper training is essential for a variety of reasons, including:
Safety Concerns: Many of the scenes these professionals deal with have biohazards such as blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. Exposure to these substances can transmit diseases or infections. Training ensures that cleaners know how to handle and dispose of these materials safely.
Proper Cleaning Techniques: Different contaminants and situations require specific cleaning techniques and chemicals. Without proper training, a forensic cleaner might not fully remediate a scene, which could lead to health risks for future occupants.
Emotional and Psychological Preparedness: Crime scenes, especially those involving violent crimes, can be emotionally disturbing. Training can help cleaners cope with what they see and ensure they maintain a professional demeanour on the job.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: There are regulations and standards, which govern how biohazards should be handled and disposed of. Proper training ensures compliance with these regulations, reducing the risk of legal liabilities.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): It’s crucial that cleaners know how to properly use PPE, such as gloves, masks, and suits. This ensures their safety and prevents cross-contamination.
Handling and Disposal of Biohazardous Waste: Forensic cleaners must know how to categorize, package, and dispose of biohazardous waste in compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines.
Chemical Safety: Some cleaning agents and solvents can be harmful if used incorrectly. Training ensures cleaners understand the risks and proper usage of each chemical.
Preservation of Evidence: While their main job is to clean, they must also be careful not to inadvertently destroy or tamper with potential evidence before the scene has been released by investigators.
Dealing with the Public and Grieving Families: Forensic cleaners may interact with family members or the public during their work. Training can help them handle these interactions sensitively and professionally.
Continuous Updates: The field of forensic cleaning can evolve, with new techniques, equipment, and chemicals emerging. Regular training ensures that cleaners are up to date with the latest in their field.
At AllAces, our technicians undergo extensive training and certification through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Our specialist forensic cleaners complete the Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) certification to handle biohazardous materials safely and efficiently with various procedures and precautions based on the ANSI/IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup.
Some homeowners or business insurance policies may cover forensic cleaning services, but it’s essential to check with the specific insurance provider.
No. They can also be called to clean up after suicides, unattended deaths, hoarding situations, and any other incidents involving biohazards.
Biohazardous waste is disposed of according to strict regulations, often through specialised waste management services.
It is always best to engage expert service providers when facing potentially contaminated forensic or biohazard materials. Specialist Forensic Cleaners, such as AllAces, understand the associated risks inherent in contaminated scenes and substances. Our technicians receive training and accreditation to handle sensitive materials and are equipped with the appropriate protective gear. It is also beneficial to the authorities to have a licensed and experienced company involved in mitigating these risks. Do not subject yourself to the psychological repercussions of revisiting a crime scene, contact AllAces Cleaning & Restoration to step in and provide an empathetic and discreet solution.