Dirty Jobs with Bio-One
Cleaning Up After Unwelcome Pests
MARCH 8, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
At Bio-One, we see it all. We help our community in times of tragedy with our crime and trauma cleanup services. We help those struggling with mental health clean up their hoarded homes so they can get on the path to wellness. But those are just a couple of our services.
Bio-One is trained, certified, and licensed to remove and remediate all types of biohazards. Biohazards present in various forms and often times, animals can be the biggest culprits. Cleaning up after our own pets can be a gross job, but cleaning up after unwanted pests, like rodents and raccoons, should be left to the professionals.
Animals can be infected with parasites, diseases, and viruses that are incredibly dangerous to humans and other animals. When an animal leaves behind waste, it leaves behind the danger of anything it may be infected with. Animal waste must be decontaminated and disposed of properly. After an unwelcome critter has contaminated a space with feces or urine, proper disinfection is necessary to ensure the safety of those who may enter the area.
Bio-One can remove, decontaminate, and disinfect your space after unwelcome pests have left a mess. We have remediated the aftermath of raccoons in attics, birds in a barn, opossums in a crawl space, and rodents throughout entire homes.
No matter what type of animal or pest has caused you headache, Bio-One is happy to help remediate the area to restore your home or property to a safe and healthy environment!
To learn more about how we can help with animal biohazard cleanup, contact Sarah at Bio-One.
"Help First, Business Second"
24/7/365
(317) 499-6014
When Tragedy Happens, Who Pays for the Cleanup?
Covering the Costs of Crime & Trauma
FEB 25, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
We have addressed a lot of common questions regarding what we do and why we do it. We have focused on information about the general nature of our job, but we tend to forget the questions that our clients often have.
The biggest question: Who pays for crime and trauma cleanup services?
One thing that most people are surprised to learn is that there is no government agency or entity that helps families with the physical aftermath of a tragedy. Law enforcement does not have a “janitorial unit” that swoops in to help. If you are anything like me, you’re probably shocked by this information.
Crime and trauma cleanup is a private sector industry. Outside of OSHA, there is no government agency involved in our services. Sometimes, this can be unfortunate for our clients because this means they are responsible for payment.
In cases of crime and trauma, if it occurs in a home, homeowners’ insurance will typically cover the cost of our services, minus the insured’s deductible. If a situation occurs in a rental property, property management will typically contact us and handle the responsibility of payment. This may not be the case in all situations that occur in a rental property.
What about incidents that occur in vehicles?
If a vehicle has biohazard in it, automotive technicians will not work on it (and rightfully so, because it can be incredibly dangerous). With vehicles, there are a lot of factors that may affect who pays. If a car or driver is insured, the insurance company may determine whether the car gets cleaned or not, and they may or may not cover the costs associated with the cleanup. Depending on the type of incident, the owner (or the estate) may be solely responsible for payment.
Who pays for hoarding cleanup?
Hoarding cases are always private pay. Insurance companies view hoarding as “neglect,” therefore they will not cover the costs associated with cleaning up a hoarded home.
Bio-One’s mission statement is “Help First, Business Second,” and we stand by that whole-heartedly. We understand that the affects of a sudden tragedy can be very costly, without even including the costs of our services. We want people to be aware that there is help available to those who are going through traumatic situations. Many organizations help victims of crime, as well as families affected by crime. If you or a loved one is struggling to cover expenses incurred by a crime, the links listed below are a great place to start.
· Indiana Criminal Justice Institute: Indiana Violent Crime Victim Compensation Fund
· Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)
For more information about locating applications for victim assistance funds, contact Sarah at Bio-One.
Bio-One
“Help First, Business Second”
24/7/365
(317) 499-6014
info@bioonemarioncounty.com
sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com
Self-Care Isn't Selfish
Help Yourself to Help Others
FEB. 17, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
At Bio-One, as you can imagine, we see a lot of tragic and shocking situations. Yes, it is our job to handle these scenes with the utmost professionalism, but that doesn’t mean we are somehow immune to the “human” side of our business. Bio-One is a compassionate company with one main goal: helping others. We have learned that taking care of ourselves is the best way we can be prepared to help those who need us.
We hear it preached to us all the time, nowadays: self-care, self-care, self-care. We see everyone on social media showing us their self-care routines, from bubble baths to workouts to hobbies. It may not seem important when it’s coming from an influencer on TikTok, but the message is clear: make yourself and your wellbeing a priority.
At Bio-One, we take self-care seriously because we understand that before we can help anyone else, we must first help ourselves. “Helping” yourself does not have a one-size-fits-all solution. Rather, it is unique to every person and their own goals.
For us, no matter what scene we respond to, we must be in a stable place mentally, physically, and emotionally. Because of that, we take steps to ensure that we are prepared for any situation we walk into.
Personally, self-care looks like a quiet, calm space in my home, with limited distractions, where I can read a book or work on a puzzle. Typically, there is a cup of coffee involved as well. Sometimes my self-care is as simple as setting aside time to organize goings-on in my personal life so that when I am at work I can focus on helping and serving my community.
As a team, we also work on self-care together. One of our franchise owners, Roxana, is a huge advocate for self-care. She focuses a lot on physical fitness, and how it plays a huge role in both our mental and physical health. She is consistently checking in with all of us on the team, especially after physically and emotionally-demanding scenes. As a leader, she helps set the tone for how important self-care is, especially in our unique line of work.
No matter what it looks like, make self-care a priority.
What does self-care look like to you? Feel free to share your routines or suggestions with us! We deal with a lot of negative circumstances, so we are always happy to hear the positives.
Bio-One
“Help First, Business Second”
24/7/365
(317) 499-6014
info@bioonemarioncounty.com
sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com
Victim Advocacy
Domestic Violence in Our Communities
JAN. 28, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
At Bio-One, we know there are heartbreaking statistics regarding violent crime all across the board. We see the aftereffects firsthand at traumatic scenes, but there are innumerable crimes committed every single day that never get called into 911.
Domestic violence is a crime that leaves lasting impacts that often go unseen, and countless victims’ voices go unheard.
Continuing in our journey with victim advocacy and our training with Families First Indiana, we recently learned about domestic violence and the challenges its victims face outside of the crime itself. Below are some statistics that highlight the devastating effects that domestic violence has on the people in our communities.
· Nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner (in one year, that equals more than 10 million victims)
· 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking
· On average, domestic violence hotlines nationwide receive over 20,000 daily calls
· In 2018, partner violence accounted for 20% of all violent crime
· On average, it takes a domestic violence victim 7 times to leave before staying away for good
· Female victims sustain injuries 3x more often than male victims
These statistics and more information can be found at NCADV.org. NCADV is the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, there is help available. Below are national resources, as well as an Indiana-specific resource.
· National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.799.SAFE (7233), hotline.org
· BTSADV (Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence) Helpline: 855.287.1777, breakthesilencedv.org
· ICADV (Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence): 800.322.7385, icadvinc.org
For more information on how to get involved with your community, contact Sarah at Bio-One.
(317) 499-0614
24/7/365
Victim Advocacy
A Closer Look at Sexual Assault
JAN 20, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
At Bio-One, we see the unfortunate aftermath of traumatic crimes, but not every crime has a chaotic scene left behind to remediate. Whether we respond to the scene or not, we are always looking for ways to help victims in our community.
Two of our team members at Bio-One have recently partnered with an organization called Families First Indiana. Families First helps community members with a vast array of services, including victim advocacy. Volunteering with Families First Indiana, we are currently training to become victim advocates. As we go through this journey, we are going to share some of what we learn.
As advocates, we will work with members of the Indianapolis community who have been victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, or trauma. We will be available to assist victims with emotional support as well as helping them find additional resources for continued support. In cases of sexual assault, if requested by the victim, we will go to the hospital and support them as they undergo what is commonly referred to as a “rape kit.”
We have learned some alarming information and statistics regarding sexual assault. To bring some light to these grossly underreported crimes, we would like to share a few statistics. Again, this information may be shocking, but we feel the best way to help in any situation is by dealing with the truth, no matter how ugly it may be.
All of the statistics below can be found at RAINN.org. “RAINN (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the country’s National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE, hotline.rainn.org).” (cite, RAINN.org)
· Every 73 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted (this includes men and women)
· 1 out of every 6 women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime
· 1 out of every 33 men have experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime
· 9 out of every 10 victims of rape are female
· 55% of sexual assaults occur at or near the victim’s home
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, there is help and support available. Contact Sarah at sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com or Roxana at info@bioonemarioncounty.com for more information about how to support victims in your community.
Working in Crime & Trauma Cleanup
It's Not For Everyone
DEC. 12, 2021 by SARAH WADSWORTH
Crime and trauma cleanup is a niche industry that many are entirely unaware of. We find that a lot of folks are genuinely curious about and interested in our line of work and may even think it could be a job fit for them.
What we deal with on a scene is not displayed in shows like “CSI” and “Law & Order.” As interesting as it may seem, crime and trauma cleanup is not for everyone. Being a biohazard technician can be a rewarding line of work, but equally challenging.
If you think this line of work may be something for you, here are a few things to consider first:
· How strong is your stomach? We respond to heartbreaking scenes, and unfortunately, many times blood is not the only thing left behind. If you don’t do well with odors or biohazards outside of blood, go ahead and count yourself out.
· Do you have strong communication and people skills? Working with individuals who are dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy requires a high level of communication awareness that goes far beyond basic customer service.
· Can you keep a level head and maintain awareness in emotionally heightened situations?
We have to pay close attention to ensure that we safely remove all biohazard at the scene, and that requires a lot of mental focus and awareness. Usually, loved ones do not stay at the scene while we work, but we always have to be prepared to communicate effectively and respectfully no matter the emotional state of those dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy.
· After witnessing a tragic scene, will you be able to “leave work at work?” Crime and trauma cleanup is mentally and emotionally taxing. We see devastating circumstances regularly, and we cannot allow those traumatic scenes to follow us home at the end of the day. If you are prone to anxiety, depression, or emotional instability, this may not be the job for you.
Although crime and trauma scene cleanup may sound fascinating, it is certainly not your average “day job.” If you do believe that this might be a good fit for you, feel free to contact Sarah at Bio-One Marion County.
(317) 499-0614
Crime & Trauma Scene Cleanup FAQ
JAN 05, 2020 by SARAH WADSWORTH
At Bio-One, we handle all types of extreme cleaning, and that includes the aftermath left behind at crime scenes. We get a lot of questions regarding our role at scenes, so we would love to answer those!
Q: If the scene involves a death, is the body still present when you arrive?
A: No. In cases involving death, the coroner will take the body.
Q: Is Bio-One responsible for collecting any type of evidence?
A: No. Law enforcement must release the scene before we are allowed to start our process. There are occasions in which we will find shell casings, bullets, or other items that crime scene technicians might have missed. In that case, those items are handed off to law enforcement.
Q: What are the first steps in the process of recovering/cleaning a crime scene?
A: First and foremost, we always don PPE (personal protective equipment). Once we are in proper attire, we assess the scene and document everything, which includes lots of photos. Photos are incredibly important, especially when dealing with insurance.
Q: What type of PPE is necessary for this type of work?
A: When dealing with any type of biohazard, full PPE is required. “Full PPE” includes a hazmat suit, gloves, shoe covers, and respirators. Depending on the scene, we will use either an N95 mask, a half- face respirator, or a full-face respirator.
Q: Do family members or loved ones stay at the scene while you work?
A: Typically, no. After such a traumatic experience, seeing the cleanup process can further compound that trauma. At Bio-One, our goal is to help people start the healing process, and that begins with a home that is free of reminders of what occurred.
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to Sarah at sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com
Hoarding
When It Goes Beyond “Clutter”
DEC 29, 2020 by Sarah Wadsworth
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, which causes those suffering to compulsively to acquire and keep items that may be seen as 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 much deeper issue. These situations can be mentally and emotionally taxing for all involved, so it is sometimes necessary to call in 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 the task of a major cleanup or remediation can be, and that 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 disorder.
To learn more about how to help, contact Sarah at sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com.
Resources:
International OCD Foundation
American Psychiatric Foundation
Alone Together During the Holidays
Supporting Family & Loved Ones from a Distance
Dec. 23, 2020 by Sarah Wadsworth
A year ago, as we looked toward the beginning of 2020, none of us had any idea what was about to unfold. We went into a new decade excited for the future and the possibilities around the corner.
Unfortunately, we are all aware of how quickly 2020 took a turn for the worse. COVID, and all of its ripple effects, has reminded us how truly fragile and vulnerable we are.
The holidays can be an overwhelming and triggering time for many, and the tragic events of 2020 only compound those struggles. Now more than ever, it is critical that we reach out to our friends and loved ones.
Please know that no matter how far you may be from your family or loved ones during this time, you are never alone. Make that call. Send that text. One simple act of communication could change the outcome for someone experiencing a mental health crisis.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or any type of mental health distress, there is 24/7 help available. You do not have to do this alone.
This holiday season let’s look out for one another so that we can all be together in 2021. Have a safe and happy holiday season, and help someone else do the same. For more ways to help, contact Sarah at sarah@bioonemarioncounty.com.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK (8255)
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
NAMI Crisis Text Line: text “NAMI” to 741-741
When Tragedy Strikes,
What Do You Do?
Who to Call and What Resources You Need
DEC 15, 2020 by Roxana Jimenez & Sarah Wadsworth
You walk in the door and find your loved one has passed away. You were not prepared for that, you didn't think you would walk into a home to find that. It could be from a suicide, accidental death, natural causes, or even homicide. Walking into the place you feel safe and finding that someone is deceased is one of the most traumatic events that can happen to anyone. Not only have you lost a loved one or someone you care about, but you are the one that found them. Sometimes people are found with bodily fluids around them, such as blood or vomit or in awkward positions, this can add even more to the trauma and confusion. So what do you do? Who do you call?
Please contact your local law enforcement first. They will get the process going to get the coroner, investigation team, and any other first responders to the residence as soon as possible. If you need support and resources there are local organizations such as Victim Services and Crisis Responders who can help. They have wonderful people working for them that are trained to help in traumatic situations, have plenty of resources, and are available to you 24/7/365. You can request a victim advocate or crisis responder from the police when they arrive at the scene.
The next call should be to a trauma and crime scene cleaning company. If there are any bodily fluids from death, it is recommended you have a professional company come to recover the scene. This is not only recommended for proper cleaning but also, to help with the trauma. One thing we have learned over time is that people are usually more traumatized by having to clean up a death scene of a friend or family member than they are by the actual death. When looking for a reputable company in the state of Indiana, please make sure they are licensed, insured and OSHA certified, and they can come to your home the same day of your calling, preferably within hours.
The healing process starts easier with a clean home, without reminders of the tragic event that just happened. If you ever find yourself or a loved one in a traumatic situation, please do not hesitate to call Bio-One at (317) 499-0614. We are available 24/7/365. We can guide you step by step on what to do, or what not to do, to keep you safe until we arrive on the scene.
If you have any questions you can reach out to us at any time. We are always here to help.
info@BioOneMarionCounty.com | (317) 499-0614
