Q: Why call Accident Scene Cleaners,
Inc?
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.)
Q: How do you recognize a competent
bio-recovery company?
A: As in any profession, quality varies.
A competent bio-recovery service will operate vehicles that
are designed for the job. It's 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:What questions should be asked to help in selecting
a bio-recovery company?
A: Are they members of ABRA? (American
Bio-Recovery Association)
How long have they been in business?
Will they work with the property owner's insurance?
Will they handle all the insurance paperwork for the property
owner?
Are they insured?
Can they provide documents proving destruction of any biohazardous
waste that has been generated?
Can they provide the name of their medical waste disposal
facility?
Can they provide references?
Q: Can I have an employee of my
business clean the scene?
A: 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.
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 Accident 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. The majority of local or national janitorial
companies have little or no experience dealing with blood
borne pathogens. Most of these companies are not licensed
to do any demolition or restoration work. Few if any are
authorized to transport or dispose of biohazard waste. The
sad fact is you are charged great sums of money for disposal
and the waste ends up in a traditional landfill. Depending
where you live you may be responsible and held liable for
this illegal dumping since you are the original owner. Some
of these companies actually try to extract large amounts
of blood with a carpet extractor, the same one they use
to clean carpets. Large blood spots leave a stain in the
carpet backing. The stain on the pad and the sub floor are
twice as big and are still there even after these so called
experts are done. These companies also charge as much or
more than a reputable biohazard cleaning company. Most reputable
janitorial companies realize it is not their expertise and
will usually refer inquiries to a qualified biohazard cleaning
company.