Bio-One of Marion County decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Biohazard Cleanup vs. Regular Cleaning: What's the Difference?

Biohazard Cleanup

Introduction

Cleanliness is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy environment, whether at home, in the workplace, or in any public space. However, not all cleaning tasks are created equal. There's a distinct difference between regular cleaning and biohazard cleanup; understanding this difference is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in various settings.

Regular Cleaning: Maintenance for Everyday Living

Regular cleaning refers to the routine maintenance of spaces to keep them neat, organized, and free from dirt and clutter. This type of cleaning is part of our daily lives, involving tasks such as dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and wiping surfaces. Regular cleaning is aimed at maintaining appearances, preventing the buildup of dirt and grime, and improving the overall aesthetic of a space. We do it to keep our living and working areas comfortable and visually appealing.

Biohazard Cleanup: Dealing with Dangerous Contaminants

On the other hand, biohazard cleanup goes far beyond the surface-level tidying associated with regular cleaning. Biohazards are biological materials that threaten human health, such as blood, bodily fluids, medical waste, and other potentially infectious substances. Biohazard cleanup involves the removal, cleaning, and disposal of these hazardous materials in a safe and regulated manner. This type of cleanup is necessary after traumatic events, accidents, crime scenes, industrial accidents, or in places where contamination from pathogens is suspected.

Key Differences: Biohazard Cleanup vs. Regular Cleaning

  1. Safety Concerns: The primary difference between biohazard cleanup and regular cleaning is the level of safety concerns involved. Regular cleaning focuses on making spaces look tidy, while biohazard cleanup centers on preventing the spread of infectious diseases and maintaining the health of individuals who may come into contact with the contaminants.
  2. Equipment and Training: Biohazard cleanup requires specialized training, equipment, and protective gear to ensure the safety of those performing the cleanup. Professionals in this field, like Bio-One of Marion County, are trained to handle potentially dangerous materials, use disinfectants effectively, and follow strict protocols to avoid cross-contamination. Regular cleaning typically involves basic cleaning tools and does not require the same level of specialized knowledge.
  3. Regulations and Compliance: Biohazard cleanup must adhere to strict regulations and guidelines set by health and safety authorities. There are legal requirements for handling and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. Regular cleaning does not have the same stringent regulations associated with it.
  4. Severity of Contamination: Biohazard cleanup addresses situations where the risk of contamination is high due to bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful agents. Regular cleaning deals with everyday dirt and debris that do not pose the same health risks.
  5. Psychological Impact: Biohazard cleanup often involves emotionally distressing situations like crime scenes or accidents. Professionals in this field must be equipped to handle the psychological toll of these scenarios. Regular cleaning typically does not involve such emotional challenges.

Conclusion

In summary, the difference between biohazard cleanup and regular cleaning lies in the level of risk, specialized training, and equipment required. While regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a comfortable and appealing environment, biohazard cleanup is critical for preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring the safety of individuals in spaces contaminated by hazardous materials. Understanding these differences is vital for making informed decisions when it comes to addressing cleaning needs in various settings.

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, feces removal, rodent droppings, sewage cleanup, hoarding, pet hoarding, gross filth cleanup, tear gas remediation, and odor removal services. Helping people facing difficult situations get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!  Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

Biohazard technician

When faced with a biohazardous situation in your home or business, it's important to hire a professional biohazard cleanup company like Bio-One Marion County to handle the situation safely and effectively. But what can you expect during the cleanup process? Here is a step-by-step guide of what to expect during a biohazard cleanup:

Step 1: Assessment and Planning 

The first step in any biohazard cleanup is an assessment of the situation by the cleanup team. Our certified technicians will evaluate the extent of the damage, the type of biohazard present, and the equipment and personnel needed to complete the job. Once the assessment is complete, our team at Bio-One Marion County will create a plan of action and discuss it with you.

Step 2: Containment 

The next step is to contain the affected area to prevent the biohazard from spreading to other parts of the property. This may involve the use of physical barriers, negative air pressure systems, or other specialized equipment.

Step 3: Removal of Biohazardous Materials 

Our technicians will then begin the process of removing any biohazardous materials from the affected area. This may include removing contaminated materials such as carpets, furniture, or personal belongings.

Step 4: Cleaning and Disinfecting 

Once all biohazardous materials have been removed, the cleanup team will thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected area using specialized cleaning agents and equipment. This step is crucial to ensure that all traces of the biohazard have been eliminated.

Step 5: Deodorization 

In some cases, biohazardous materials can cause lingering odors. The cleanup team may use specialized deodorization techniques to eliminate any unpleasant smells.

Step 6: Final Inspection and Clearance 

Once the cleanup process is complete, the team will conduct a final inspection of the affected area to ensure that all biohazardous materials have been removed and the area is safe for use. If the area passes the inspection, the team will provide a certificate of clearance, indicating that the property has been fully restored.

In conclusion, biohazard cleanup is a complex and specialized process that requires the expertise of a professional cleanup company. By following this step-by-step guide, you can get a better idea of what to expect during the cleanup process and have peace of mind knowing that your property is safe and free from biohazards.

About Us

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year! Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

Protective equipment for a biohazard technician

What is C. Diff?

Clostridium difficile, also known as C. diff, is a type of bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and other intestinal problems. Spores from C. diff bacteria are passed in feces and spread by touch to food, surfaces, and objects when infected people don't wash their hands thoroughly. These spores can persist in a room for weeks or months, and if you touch a surface contaminated with C. diff spores, you may unknowingly swallow the bacteria. C. diff infections can be difficult to treat, especially in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Decontamination Process

When cleaning up C. diff, it is important to understand that it is considered a biohazard. This means that it requires specialized techniques and equipment to ensure that the bacteria are completely eliminated, and the area is safe for others to use.

At Bio-One of Marion County, we have top-of-the-line chemicals, tools, and personal protective equipment capable of disinfecting the entire home quickly and effectively. Because C. diff is a bacteria transmitted by touch, many people falsely believe that a home can be disinfectd simply by wiping hard surfaces with a bleach mixture. That may work for some surfaces, but we use high-quality chemicals designed to kill these bacteria and a chemical fogging machine that creates a dense smoke of potent chemicals to kill all the hard-to-reach biohazards inside your home. This method is incredibly effective and usually allows our clients to return to their homes on the same day.

One important aspect of C. diff cleanup is the proper disposal of contaminated materials. Biohazard companies like Bio-One of Marion County are trained to follow strict protocols for the disposal of contaminated waste, which may include using special containers and following specific transportation and disposal procedures.

Conclusion

C. diff infection is a serious health concern that requires prompt and effective action to prevent its spread. Biohazard companies play a critical role in decontamination, using specialized equipment and techniques to disinfect contaminated areas and ensure the environment is safe for human habitation. By working with a reputable biohazard company like Bio-One of Marion County, individuals and organizations can take proactive steps to prevent the spread of C. diff infection and protect the health and safety of their communities.

About Us

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!  Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service. We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve.

Thanks to multiple TV shows, I think most of us are at least aware of the term "hoarding" or "hoarders." Maybe you've seen an episode of "Hoarders" where a person's home is overtaken by clutter and filth. Although it may be easy to watch someone deal with this on TV, the reality of hoarding is not dealt with in a single one-hour episode.


Hoarding
is a mental health disorder that causes those suffering to compulsively acquire and keep items that may be considered useless or unnecessary. With hoarding disorder, sometimes even just the thought of getting rid of items can cause major distress for the individual.

 

Bio-One has assisted in the hoarding cleanup process for thousands of people across the US who struggle with this illness. At Bio-One, we take mental health seriously because the impact of those struggles can affect so many people, not just those who are personally afflicted. What may seem like basic clutter could be the early signs of a deeper issue. These situations can be mentally and emotionally taxing for all involved, so it is sometimes necessary to call professionals for help.


At
Bio-One, we take pride in helping others and treating them with the utmost respect, no matter the nature of the scene. We understand how overwhelming and daunting a major cleanup or remediation can be, which is why we are here to help. If you know someone who has hoarding tendencies, there are mental health professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating hoarding disorders.

 

Resources:

International OCD Foundation

hoarding.iocdf.org


American Psychiatric Foundation

 psychiatry.org/hoarding

 

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!  Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

Blood Spill Cleanup

Blood spills can happen anywhere, whether in a hospital, laboratory, or your home. Regardless of where it happens, cleaning up the spill immediately and correctly is crucial to prevent the spreading of disease and potential health hazards. While it may be tempting to clean up the spill yourself, it's important to understand that blood spill cleanups should only be handled by biohazard companies. This blog discusses why you should leave blood spill cleanups to professionals.

Health Risks

Blood spills can pose a significant health risk, as they can contain bloodborne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other harmful microorganisms. Exposure to these pathogens can result in serious health consequences, including infections, illnesses, and even death. Therefore, it's important to understand the risks and take proper precautions to avoid contact with the contaminated area.

Lack of Proper Equipment

Blood spill cleanup requires specialized equipment to ensure the area is thoroughly disinfected and safe for occupancy. Biohazard companies have access to professional-grade equipment, including personal protective gear, biohazard bags, and disinfectants. Without proper equipment, cleaning up a blood spill can be dangerous and can result in incomplete or inadequate cleaning.

Proper Disposal

Biohazard companies are trained to dispose of blood and other biohazardous waste properly. They follow strict protocols and adhere to state and federal regulations to ensure that the waste is disposed of safely and in an environmentally-friendly manner. If blood and other biohazardous waste are not disposed of properly, it can result in potential fines and harm to the environment.

Legal Liability

Cleaning up a blood spill yourself can result in potential legal liability if someone else is exposed to the contaminated area. Biohazard companies have insurance to cover any accidents or injuries that may occur during the cleanup process. This means that you won't be held liable for any damages that may result from the cleaning process.

In conclusion, blood spill cleanups should only be handled by biohazard companies due to the potential health risks, lack of proper equipment, proper disposal, and legal liability. If you encounter a blood spill, it's important to contact a biohazard company immediately to ensure that the area is safely and thoroughly disinfected. Remember, your safety and the safety of others is paramount, so don't take any unnecessary risks.

Bio-One of Marion County is a locally owned and operated biohazard and hoarding cleaning company serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas. We specialize in blood, bodily fluid, and feces removal, rodent droppings cleaning, sewage cleanup, hoarding, and pet hoarding cleaning, gross filth cleanup, and odor removal services. Helping people who are faced with difficult situations to get their surroundings and lives back in order is our #1 priority. 

Bio-One is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!  Call (317) 499-0614, and you'll speak directly to one of us when you call; there is never an answering service.  We'll treat you like a person with the compassion and respect that you deserve. 

You don't need an article to tell you that a sewer backup is no joke. Sewage backups can be a disaster for homeowners, causing damage to floors, walls, and furniture and posing a serious health risk. In the event of a sewage backup, it's important to act quickly and follow the proper protocols to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your family. Here's what to do in the event of a sewage backup:

Sewage Backup
Sewage Backup

Step 1. Stop using all plumbing fixtures and call a professional plumber:

To prevent the backup from spreading, turn off your main water supply and stop using all plumbing fixtures, including toilets, sinks, and showers. If you're unable to locate the source of the backup, or if the backup is severe, it's best to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to prevent future backups safely and effectively from occurring.

Step 2. Protect yourself, and do not touch anything.

Sewage water is contaminated and poses a serious health risk. If you have to be near the contaminated area, put on rubber gloves, waterproof boots, and protective eyewear to protect yourself from coming into contact with the contaminated water.

Step 3. Call a biohazard cleaning company to clean and disinfect the contaminated area.

Biohazard companies clean sewage backups by following a standard set of procedures to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. These procedures include:

  • Isolating the affected area to prevent the spread of disease and contamination.
  • Wearing personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses.
  • Removing all standing water and solid waste to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
  • Using specialized cleaning agents to remove all remaining organic material and disinfect the affected area.
  • Ventilating the affected area to remove any lingering unpleasant odors and to allow the area to dry.
    • Disposing of any contaminated material in accordance with local regulations to prevent environmental contamination.
    • Inspecting the affected area to ensure that all contaminants have been removed and that the area is safe for reoccupation.

    Sewage backups can be a major headache, but following these steps can help you minimize the damage and keep your family safe. If you ever have any doubts or concerns, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber or biohazard cleaning company for assistance.

    Call us 24/7 at (317) 499-0614 for a free estimate! Learn more about the biohazard services we provide to residents in Indianapolis and surrounding areas at BioOneMarionCounty.com/services

    Clutter and hoarding can create a perfect environment for pests to thrive, making it difficult to control or eliminate an infestation. If you or someone you know is facing this problem, it's essential to take quick action to address the situation and prevent it from getting worse. Here's are the 4 steps you should follow:

    Personal protective equipment worn during animal feces cleaning and disinfection
    Personal protective equipment worn during animal feces cleaning and disinfection

    Step 1: Call a pest control professional

    The first step is to call a professional pest control company to assess the infestation and provide the best solution. They will be able to identify the type of pest and the extent of the infestation and recommend the appropriate treatment.

    Step 2: Declutter and dispose of contaminated items

    Once the pests have been identified, remove any cluttered items harboring the pests, including cardboard boxes, old magazines, and other items that provide shelter and food sources. Any contaminated items should be bagged and disposed of immediately. We recommend that you use proper protective equipment during this stage. If this feels overwhelming, you can always call a biohazard company to help. Their technicians know how to identify areas that may be contaminated and use specialized techniques and equipment to remove any hazardous materials.

    Step 3: Clean and disinfect affected areas

    Because pest infestations can pose serious health risks, it is crucial to clean and disinfect any contaminated items to prevent the spread of disease-causing pathogens after decluttering. Use a strong disinfectant and pay extra attention to areas that may have been contaminated, such as cupboards, drawers, and other hidden spaces. This will help remove any remaining pests and their eggs and eliminate any unpleasant odors that may have developed.

    If you want the peace of mind that the cleaning and disinfection are done correctly, you can hire a biohazard company. They will take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from exposure to hazardous materials during the cleaning and disinfecting process. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper decontamination protocols. Biohazard companies use specialized disinfectants that are specifically designed to kill disease-causing pathogens. These disinfectants are highly effective and can help prevent the spread of illness.

    Step 4: Implement measures to prevent future infestations:

    To prevent future pest infestations, it's essential to implement measures to keep your home and surroundings clean and tidy. This includes regular cleaning, proper storage of food, and sealing any cracks or crevices where pests may enter.

    Hiring a biohazard company after a pest infestation is crucial to ensure the proper cleaning and disinfection of contaminated items. Biohazard companies have the expertise, equipment, and processes to effectively clean and disinfect your home or business, ensuring that it is safe for you and others. While hiring a biohazard company may seem expensive, it is often the most cost-effective solution in the long run. This is because proper cleaning and disinfection will prevent the spread of illness and potential lawsuits, saving you money in the long run.

    Call us 24/7 at (317) 499-0614 for a free estimate, or find out more about hoarding remediation services at BioOneMarionCounty.com/hoarding-cleanup.

    Learn more about the biohazard services we provide to residents in Indianapolis and surrounding areas at BioOneMarionCounty.com/services

    Hoarding before and after

    The phenomenon of hoarding has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Massachusetts, an estimated 5% of the population in the United States alone suffers from the disorder. Hoarding is a psychological disorder that can lead to extreme accumulation of items, often creating hazardous living conditions. This can lead to an unsafe environment for the hoarder and any visitors.

    Hoarding can pose a serious safety risk. Piles of belongings can create a fire hazard, and the sheer amount of clutter can make it challenging to move around the home safely. When you enlist a hoarding cleaning service like Bio-One of Marion County, they can help restore your home's safety by removing the clutter and ensuring all pathways are clear. 

    When a hoarding situation arises, it is essential to enlist the help of a professional biohazard cleaning company like Bio-One of Marion County to ensure the safety of all involved. We specialize in removing hazardous materials, such as human and medical waste, and other items that may have been exposed to various infectious diseases or viruses. Our certified technicians use specialized equipment, such as HEPA filters, to safely and effectively remove these items from home. 

    Call us 24/7 at (317) 499-0614 for a free estimate, or find out more about hoarding remediation services at BioOneMarionCounty.com/hoarding-cleanup.

    Learn more about the biohazard services we provide to residents in Indianapolis and surrounding areas at BioOneMarionCounty.com/services


    Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 7 Thin Gold Line Help First Business Second

    Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.

    Here is Week 7 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

    Thank You to the Thin Gold Line

    The second week of April is a time to celebrate and thank telecommunications professionals who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Often called the thin gold line, 911 dispatchers are true heroes behind the scenes

    Coast to coast, Bio-One teams found fun and unique ways to recognize the Thin Gold Line. 

    Bio-One Helps Homeless Man with Vehicle Clean Up

    This week, News San Diego reported "Homeless man's story inspires San Diego mom to enlist community's help", featuring Rene Flohr and Nicki Chipp-Flohr, owners of Bio-One. The Bio-One duo spotted a NextDoor post asking for anyone who could help 79 year-old, Les, who had been living out of his vehicle and was recently diagnosed with skin cancer. His vehicle was floor to ceiling full of items, and Bio-One was ready to help clean and disinfect the vehicle so it could be sold or donated. 

    In a message to Bio-One owners, Nicki said, "I am very proud of what we are doing to help someone. I thought you’d all appreciate it, since we live the Bio-One motto of #helpfirstbusinesssecond." We couldn't agree more! 

    Read the entire story on News San Diego. 

    A "Week in the Life" at Bio-One

    The Bio-One team in Tuscon, AZ had a busy week with work ranging from COVID-19 disinfections, mold remediations, bird dropping clean up, medical waste disposal, suicide remediation, and more. 

    If you've ever wondered what it takes to be a crime and trauma scene cleaner, we recommend read through the Tuscon team's Weekly Wrap-Up! 

    Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaners at Bio-One

    Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 6 Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaning COVID-19 Disinfection

    Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.

    Here is Week 6 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

    Cherokee County Biohazard Remediation 

    Lives in the Atlanta area were forever altered on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 after a shooting spree at three metro Atlanta spas left eight people, including six Asian women, dead within the span of 45 minutes. 

    Our hearts and sympathies are with everyone impacted by this tragedy.  

    Two weeks after the tragic events in Atlanta took place, Bio-One answered the call to remediate the spa in Cherokee County. Led by Michele O'Brien and Rebecca Phillips, the Bio-One team provided a quick response and thorough decontamination. Read more in our recent blog post. 

    Bio-One Cherokee County Massage Parlor Biohazard Remediation

    Tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina

    As details from the tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina unfold, one Bio-One team paid special tribute to the victims, first responders and other local law enforcement officials. Bio-One owners, John and Jen Symons, live in Rock Hill and experienced the police response first-hand. "It's a tight-knit community. We just can't believe it," said Jen Symons. 

    Their team is currently in communication with local law enforcement, and activity supporting neighbors through this difficult time. 

    COVID-19 Disinfection at Dojo

    This week, we're spotlighting the Atlantic City team where they are regularly disinfecting Ganguly's Mixed Martial Arts. According to Bio-One owner, Victor Russomanno, "We are contracted with a local martial arts studio to disinfect them weekly. In addition to their in-house protocol, we use an electrostatic sprayer to ensure maximum coverage and protection, to ensure those who are training are staying safe through our efforts."

    Across the United States, Bio-One teams actively disinfect local businesses, government buildings, and residents in the fight against coronavirus. Learn more about our COVID-19 disinfection process.