Q: Why call Crime Scene Cleaners?
A: We are trained and equipped in removal and disposal of biohazards. We are trained and proficient in infectious waste handling and decontamination procedures that are effective against dangerous pathogenic diseases including HIV-1 (associated with AIDS) and Hepatitis-B Virus (HBA). We specialize in trauma and crime scene abatement, suicides, decomposition, natural deaths, and animal biohazard remediation.
Q: Who pays for bio-recovery services?
A: In most cases home, business, or auto insurance will pay for bio-recovery services. Ultimately, the property owner is responsible for the cost of the service. (We bill the insurance company directly for you or obtaining reimbursement from the Texas Victims of Crime Board.)
Q: Can I get reimbursed from my insurance company for these services? |
A: In most cases, home, business, or auto insurance will reimburse you for our services. If the victim of crime has no insurance, the Texas Victims of Crime Board may pay up to $750.00. Please consult with your individual insurance carrier for possible reimbursement Q: Can I be penalized if I choose to have my employee clean the scene? | A: Non-compliance with 29CFR1910.1030 has resulted in OSHA fines ranging from $7,000-$70,000. More importantly, you are placing your employee's health at risk. Federal Regulation 29CFR1910:1030 states that no employee can be placed in a position to be exposed to blood spills without first:
1. Receiving bloodborne pathogen training.
2. Having a written bloodborne pathogen exposure control plan.
3. Having been provided with personal protective equipment.
4. Having been offered a Hepatitis B vaccine and exposure evaluation and follow-up.
5. Being provided with a method to remove and properly store the biohazardous waste in a properly marked container for disposal at an approved site.
Penalties for violation of the standard are severe and the employee may also file a workers’ compensation claim in addition to filing a lawsuit. |
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Q: How do you recognize a competent bio-recovery company?
A: As in any profession, quality varies. Its technicians will be professional in attitude and appearance. These technicians will be sensitive to the nature of each scene and the people around them. They will work closely with the property managers to reduce the emotional stress related to the scene, discourage publicity and be helpful in assuming as much of the role of dealing with the insurance company as possible. A competent company will be knowledgeable of disease, pathogens, sanitizers, disinfectants, sterilants, deodorants, techniques, devices, and regulations to help them to successfully deal with each unique situation. Using special equipment, chemicals, and protective suits, these specialists isolate, clean, disinfect each surface, and decontaminate properly. Upon completion, the collected waste is properly contained, labeled and transported for appropriate disposal at a medical waste-handling facility.
Q: Is the use of a professional crime scene clean-up company mandatory by law when the scene is a private home?
A: It is not mandatory in all states, but it is recommended. By using a professional crime scene clean-up company such as Crime Scene Cleaners, the likelihood of adding further trauma to the victim or family with the task of cleaning up the aftermath is eliminated. Infectious pathogens and odor causing bacteria are removed following the strict guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA.
Q: Why should a professional bio-recovery company be called to do the clean up? Why not just do it myself or call a janitorial service?
A: Most mop and bucket cleaning services personnel are not trained or equipped to handle biohazardous wastes such as blood or bodily fluids. Also, the possibility that other hazardous materials may be encountered during the clean-up process is possible. Removal of biohazardous waste is dangerous. Without being able to determine which spill is infected with disease, extraordinary precautions must be taken. If a company is not properly equipped with special training, precautions, equipment and protective suits, an individual or employee could pick up a contaminant of disease or chemical hazards, and unknowingly spread it to his or her family.
