There is no doubt that trauma and crime scene cleaning are some of the most challenging services to cover. We know that these services are vital in restoring safety to a site.
Did you know that the emergency services are not responsible for the clean-up of a crime scene?
Who is Responsible for Crime Scene Clean-ups?
Despite the common misconception, crime scene investigators and law enforcement officers do not possess the knowledge or equipment to deal with the matter.
It is the property owner’s responsibility to clean the scene of a crime unless the incident took place on council property. Landlords, homeowners, and business owners are required to organise and cover the costs of all forensic cleaning on their land. Crime scene cleaners are responsible for sanitising and decontaminating the crime scene after an event has taken place. Some insurance policies cover trauma or crime scene cleaning, but most do not.
The cleaning process should start as soon as possible to lessen the risk of cross-contamination, keep businesses going and minimise emotional distress for family members and friends. However, crime scene cleaning services cannot begin until police and investigators have confirmed they have finished inspecting the area. A member of the police force must provide written confirmation before the cleaning process can commence.
When to Clean
Crime scene cleaning usually takes place as soon as forensic investigators have completed their assessment. One of the most important tasks for crime scene cleaners is handling potential biohazards, such as bodily fluids or blood. In order to do so safely, all health and safety procedures must be acknowledged to protect members of the public from hidden dangers.
Even the strongest commercial detergents cannot rid such harmful bloodborne pathogens. Only the latest cleaning expertise and techniques will prove effective in removing all traces of blood and creating a safe environment for the public.
Timings
Materials may suffer permanent stains or damage if all traces of blood are not removed within a specific period of time. Porous items such as rugs, carpets, curtains, tiles, wood and wallpaper will not only discolour but may become physically weak, accelerating the deterioration process.
If stains become permanent, items may have to be discarded due to health risks. Biohazards, such as bloodborne pathogens, should not be treated lightly; they have the potential to cause long-term health consequences.
How Green Machine can help
The area will need to be evaluated and any items they believe may have to be thrown away will need to be recorded. Our cleaners take extra precaution with disinfection methods, especially if there is a high risk of exposure to biological materials, in order to rid the area of infectious diseases. Taking on the cleaning process yourself may initially seem like the best option. However, unless you have the knowledge and professional equipment required to take on this kind of job, you risk cross-contamination.
Crime scenes, whether outside or inside, possess highly infectious pathogens that are incredibly harmful, sometimes fatal. The risk of infection is not always visible.
Contact Green Machine for more information and how we can help. Visit out Sheffield & Northampton websites for cover in your area.
