Forensic cleaning, also known as biohazard cleaning, is a specialized type of cleaning that is necessary in situations where biological material is present, such as crime and traumatic scenes. It involves the use of specialized equipment and advanced skills and often requires cooperation with the police to ensure that any evidence is preserved. The cleaners also need to be emotionally and mentally strong to handle the nature of the cleaning.
One of the main reasons why forensic cleaning is not an ordinary type of cleaning is the level of expertise required. Forensic cleaners are trained to handle potentially hazardous materials, such as blood and bodily fluids, in a safe and efficient manner. They also have access to specialized equipment, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfectants, that are not typically used in regular cleaning.
Some scenarios that may require a forensic cleaner include:
Suicides: When someone takes their own life, the scene can be traumatic for loved ones and can also pose a health risk due to the presence of blood and other bodily fluids. A forensic cleaner will be able to safely remove any biohazards and restore the area to a safe and habitable condition.
Homicides: A crime scene involving a homicide will often require the services of a forensic cleaner to remove blood and other bodily fluids. This is especially important in cases where the victim was killed in their own home, as family members and loved ones may not be able to return to the home until it has been cleaned and decontaminated.
Hoarding situations: Hoarding can lead to dangerous living conditions, including the accumulation of garbage, mold, and feces. A forensic cleaner will be able to safely remove any biohazards and restore the area to a safe and habitable condition.
Disease contamination incidents: In cases where a disease outbreak has occurred, a forensic cleaner will be able to safely remove any biohazards and decontaminate the area to prevent further spread of the disease.
Bloodborne pathogens that require forensic cleaning include the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Clostridium difficile, Hepatitis B, and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus.
When doing forensic cleaning, it is important to take precautions to maintain safety. Contamination control measures should be put in place, and personal protective equipment should be worn to protect the cleaner from germs. It is also important to get vaccinations to prevent diseases such as hepatitis B and C.
One of the most important aspects of forensic cleaning is the use of PPE. This includes gloves, gowns, face masks, and goggles to protect the cleaner from coming into contact with potentially hazardous materials. It is also important to use the appropriate disinfectants to kill any pathogens that may be present.
Another important aspect of forensic cleaning is the proper disposal of biohazards. This includes the use of red biohazard bags, which are specially designed to contain potentially infectious materials. These bags should be properly sealed and labeled and should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
In conclusion, forensic cleaning is necessary in situations where infectious pathogens, trauma or crime is involved. It requires the services of a specialist to ensure cleaning is done appropriately and there is no infection transfer from one point to another. Once the cleaning is done, it restores the place back to its original working status. It is important to remember that forensic cleaning is not an ordinary type of cleaning, and requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure the safety of the cleaner and the restoration of the area. It also requires close cooperation with the police to ensure that any evidence is preserved, and the cleaners need to be emotionally and mentally strong to handle the nature of the cleaning.
