When it comes to biohazard cleanup, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. In this blog post, we’ll discuss several common misconceptions about biohazard cleanup that could potentially put your health and safety at risk.
1. “I can handle this myself.”
One of the most dangerous misconceptions is that biohazard cleanup can be a DIY job. While we admire your determination, this approach can expose you and anyone helping you to serious health risks. Also, it is illegal and irresponsible to dispose of biohazard waste in general waste collection or landfills! Professional Trauma and Crime Scene cleaners are trained and equipped to handle all aspects of biohazard cleanup and ensure that your home, business, and community are clean and safe.
2. “Bleach will do the trick.”
Bleach is a powerful cleaner which is good for laundry and some household disinfection, but it’s not suitable for biohazards. It is corrosive, which means it can damage surfaces, and it is reactive, which means it can combine with other cleaning agents to cause corrosive gases. Professional biohazard cleanup services use specialized cleaning agents and processes designed to safely and completely eradicate biohazard contamination.
3. “The police will clean it up.”
Law enforcement agencies and crisis response groups do not provide biohazard cleanup in homes or businesses. Occasionally they may assist in the initial calls for coordinating cleanup, but it’s up to property owners to arrange for professional biohazard remediation.
4. “If the person was healthy, there’s no risk.”
Many bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis and HIV, can be present without visible symptoms. Decomposition poses additional threats from bacteria that develop during the putrefaction process. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and treat all biohazardous materials as potentially dangerous.
5. “It’s safer to let it dry first.”
Unfortunately, many pathogens, bacteria, and viruses including hepatitis can survive for months on dry surfaces, and a dried biohazard increases your chance for accidental exposure through inhalation.
6. “Biohazard cleanup is only for crime scenes.”
Biohazard impact can be caused by so much more than an unattended death or crime scene. Home or workplace accidents, hoarding, sewage backups, and prolonged illnesses are all situations that can create the need for professional biohazard cleanup services.
7. “Any cleaning service can handle it.”
Biohazard cleanup is specialized work that requires extensive training and certifications to do safely and correctly. It requires specific testing, equipment, chemicals, vehicles, and licenses to conduct business legally and ethically. Standard cleaning service providers should never be expected to handle biohazards for the safety of everyone involved, including you!
8. “It can wait.”
Delays should be avoided whenever possible to prevent biohazard contamination from spreading. The longer a biohazard is allowed to sit, the more likely it is that it will attract pests, cause mold, and spread from the initial point of impact causing damage to other parts of the structure.
9. “Professional Biohazard cleanup is too expensive.”
While cost is always a concern, attempting to clean up biohazards yourself can lead to more expenses in the long run, not to mention potential serious health risks. Professional services are worth the price, especially considering the expertise and safety they provide.
Remember, when it comes to biohazard cleanup, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals. Your health and safety are worth the investment; if you live in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, or surrounding areas, BioteamAZ has you covered. If you aren’t sure, or have more questions, contact us for a free consultation and assessment!
