Areas that have been affected by blood and/or bodily fluids as the result of a death, serious injury or medical condition may be in need of remediation services. Companies and technicians who are employed in cleaning these types of bio hazards should possess specific certifications and an in-depth knowledge of worker safety.
What is Crime Scene Cleanup and Trauma Cleanup?
The cleaning of these areas must be handled in a meticulous manner. “Universal precautions” must be applied to each situation to avoid serious illness or even death. Trauma and crime scene cleaning should never be handled by friends or family members not trained in these areas. In addition to the inherent dangers, this could also take an emotional toll.
What are the costs involved in trauma and crime scene remediation?
Each loss is estimated due to the conditions and severity of the scene. Typical items reflected in the estimate would include labor (certain number of technicians for a certain number of hours,) personal protection equipment costs (tyvek suits, respirators, etc.,) hazardous waste disposal costs, specialty equipment costs (ozone, hydroxyl, specialty vapor etc.,) and possibly one or two ancillary items. At ITS Environmental Services, we offer free inspections and estimates. We understand that when we receive a call for a crime scene cleanup, or any type of trauma remediation, it is a very challenging, emotional and stressful time for family and loved ones, and we want to do our best to help.
Is this a regulated industry?
Trauma/Crime scene remediation is not a regulated industry as it relates to how a company will charge you. Aside from bio hazardous waste disposal regulations, blood borne pathogen training and OSHA regulations (worker safety,) crime scene companies are not held to a national standard. THIS IS A BUYER BEWARE MESSAGE. With no regulations, some companies will charge exorbitant labor rates, unnecessary fees, profit, overhead and more. Do not make on the spot decisions or sign contracts without getting some advice or comparison estimates. Most contracts will hold you responsible, regardless of what your insurance company or other means of assistance will allow. Once again, get estimates prior to signing any contracts.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. ITS will come to your home or business to provide you with a straight forward and honest estimate for all jobs free of charge. If you have an estimate from another company, we will even audit the estimate for you to make sure you are being treated fairly. Again, we do not charge individuals for this service.
Is there any financial assistance for trauma and crime scene cleaning?
Yes, in some cases. Quite often, your insurance carrier will pay for some or all of the costs associated with these services. Our staff includes licensed insurance personnel and claims handlers who will investigate and handle this process on your behalf in order that you can focus on other matters during this difficult time. You may also apply to the Crime Victim Board for partial assistance with trauma cleaning. ITS also offers payment plans to our customers to make the process easier, and to assist with time frames associated with estate settlement and the search for alternate means of financial assistance. We also accept all major credit cards.
Who decides what happens to my property?
Trauma and crime scene cleaning companies work for you. The final decision relevant to your personal property is ultimately up to you. We will make recommendations about the disposal of affected property, but only you will understand the emotional and sentimental value of items at the scene. Speak to the project manager on the scene and let them know about any items that you want to retain.
How long does the cleaning process take?
The length of a trauma remediation job will always vary depending on the severity and nature of the loss, but most remediation work will be completed within one day.
Are there services that can help me cope with my loss?
Yes. There are numerous support groups and bereavement counselors in almost every geographical location, to help you get through these difficult times. These groups will often specialize in addressing specific types of loss. Group focus can be on such areas as:
loss of a spouse
loss of a parent
loss of a child
unexpected loss
loss of a loved one due to a crime
Call Us Today
If you have additional questions, please contact us to learn more about what you can expect during our cleaning process. We are available to answer all your questions.
Support Resources
We will also strive to help you find and make contact with support groups and specialists, whether you use our services or not. Our support page offers links to some of these groups and counselors, or you may complete the information request form on our contact page, and we will forward information to you. We will make every effort to put you in contact with the resources you need to help you cope with your loss.