Bio-One of Marion County decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Biohazard Companies and the Fight against C. Diff: What You Need to Know

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.

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. 

Preparing to clean an undiscovered death
Preparing to remediate an undiscovered death scene

Biohazard cleaning crews are often tasked with the challenging job of cleaning up after traumatic incidents such as homicides, suicides, or accidents. While these situations are certainly difficult, they are also typically well-known and documented. However, there is another type of death that is much less talked about and can leave an even more significant impact on those left behind: undiscovered death.

Undiscovered death occurs when a person dies alone, and their body goes undiscovered for an extended period of time, often weeks or even months. These types of deaths are especially common among elderly people who live alone or individuals who do not have close family or friends to check on them regularly. In these cases, the person may have died from natural causes, suicide, or other factors, but the body decomposes without intervention.

Dealing with an undiscovered death can devastate family members and loved ones who may not have known that their relative or friend had passed away until weeks or even months later. The discovery of a decomposing body can also be traumatic for first responders and cleaning crews, who must deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of such a scene.

Cleaning up after an undiscovered death is a delicate process that requires specialized equipment, training, and experience. Biohazard cleaning crews must carefully remove and dispose of all biological materials, including bodily fluids and tissues, to ensure that the area is thoroughly decontaminated. They must also work quickly to address any odors and deodorize the space to help alleviate the psychological impact of the discovery.

In addition to physical cleaning, biohazard cleaning crews often play a crucial role in supporting family members and loved ones during the aftermath of an undiscovered death. They may work with law enforcement or other agencies to provide compassionate support and guidance during the difficult time.

Undiscovered death is a tragic and often overlooked aspect of death and dying. Biohazard cleaning crews play a critical role in addressing the aftermath of these situations and supporting the individuals and families impacted by them. Through their specialized training and expertise, these professionals help restore the affected area to a safe and sanitary condition while providing crucial emotional support and guidance during a difficult and traumatic time.

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 What to Ask Before Hiring a Crime Scene Cleaner

    The roots of crime- and trauma-scene cleaning companies can be traced to the 1990s, and at that time only a dozen or so companies existed. The industry was widely unregulated and awareness of contamination risks were relatively non-existant.

    "I was young and dumb and saw something you only see in movies, so I quickly shut the door, took a deep breath, sat on the couch with the widow and told everyone else to get her out of here and take her to lunch, and we’ll clean this up for her," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, Founder of Bio-One Inc. "We were just trying to help a lady in her greatest time of need, and that’s for me how I got into the crime scene and cleaning business."  Read Nick's story in Franchise Times

    Today, there are hundreds of companies that advertise crime and trauma scene cleaning, and a simple Google search may prove overwhelming when you're experiencing one of the most traumatic moments in your life. To help, we've listed pre-qualifying questions to ask before choosing a crime and trauma scene company. 

    Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaner

    There are a number of key questions to ask crime and trauma scene cleaning technicians or business owners to properly root out which one is best for your goals and circumstances. 

    • Are you local? When there's a blood spill, response time is key to prevent biohazards from spreading and to ensure quick remediation. Several businesses may pay for online advertising in your city, but their technicians could be 3 or more hours away. Furthermore, avoid calling toll free numbers. "These numbers often lead to call centers. We're local. They're not," said Ginger Akemon, owner of Bio-One in Jacksonville, FL
    • Is your business certified and insured? Professional crime and trauma scene cleaning companies should have bloodborne pathogen certifications, they should follow OSHA personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines and remediation processes, and they should have insurance for their business. 
    • What is your process for disposing biohazardous waste? Once the remediation is complete, the accumulated waste will need to be disposed in accordance to local state guidelines. Make sure the business owner or technician is aware of these guidelines and has an appropriate plan for disposal.  
    • What happens to valuable or personal items that are impacted? At Bio-One, we are trained to be mindful of valuable and perceived valuable items, such as pictures, wallets, or a baseball card collection. Professional crime and trauma scene cleaners should ask if there are valuable items to keep an eye out for, and they will keep the family informed if these items are found. 
    • How will you charge for your services? In most cases, home insurance will cover the cost of biohazard remediation - less your deductible. Ask if they can open a claim on your behalf, taking this burden off your shoulders. If you don't have homeowners insurance, it's OK to ask for a free estimate so you can compare costs between other local companies. 
    • Will you be discrete during and after the job? Michele Amoranto, Bio-One owner in Oceanside, CA, always assures her clients that discretion is top of mind while her team is onsite. Bio-One vehicles are unmarked and technicians will designate work areas to don and doff PPE out of view from neighbors. 
    • Do you have a list of resources that can help after the cleanup? You may need flooring replaced or fresh drywall installed, which will also be covered under your home insurance claim, and a recommendation could help speed up the reconstruction process. Additionally, many crime and trauma scene cleaners have connections with local counselors and victim's advocates. In west Texas, Bio-One owner, Garrett Spooner, always offers a list of free mental health resources and states that, "Being volunteers of our local Crisis Intervention Unit, we consider our job incomplete without making sure our clients' mental health, grief process, and other issues our clients may have, are addressed."

    Last but certainly most important, make sure the business you speak with shows care and compassion for your situation. They should want to do everything possible to support you and your loved ones.

    If you are searching for a crime and trauma scene cleaner, Bio-One is here for you. All of our offices adhere to our business motto Help First, Business Second and are available 24/7. Click here to search for a Bio-One team near you.