Recent Biohazard Posts

SERVPRO of Riverside is Certified in Bio Hazard Cleaning

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

symbol for Biohazard SERVPRO of Riverside technicians are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazard.

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of Riverside also offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners.

A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Riverside technicians are trained to safely and effectively remove bio hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Riverside will help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. SERVPRO of Riverside can help with the following issues:

* Bloodborne Pathogens

* Methamphetamine Labs

* Crime Scene Residues

* Arson

* Vandalism

* Sewage Backups

* Black Water Intrusions

Contact SERVPRO of Riverside Professionals today for more information at:

Office 951-351-8033

Why Professional Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration Is Important For Your Riverside Home

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

man in PPE in a bedroom with bed mattress When you need biohazard cleanup and restoration services, trust the SERVPRO of West Riverside City team to help you through every step of this process

Be Safe and Let SERVPRO Cleanup Any Biohazardous Conditions at Your Property

There are plenty of disasters that can threaten your Riverside home. Among the most serious and traumatic of these events often require unique practices to safely clean and restore. From something as unfortunate as a sewer backing up into your home to the crime scene and homicide/suicide damage restoration and cleanup, professional assistance is required to remove all of the potential contaminants in the area and to help you and your family move forward in the house.

Biohazard cleanup and restoration in your Riverside home might be a requirement for several different reasons. Exposure to biological materials, bloodborne and airborne pathogens, and the presence of chemicals can make a home unsafe and dangerous to live in. Our SERVPRO team can help you to overcome these obstacles to safely live in your house once again, by providing a professional and thorough cleaning and restoration process that conventional cleaning methods just cannot replicate.

As with any biohazard cleanup, proper training is at the heart of what our SERVPRO technicians offer your home in the wake of a severe disaster or recent tragedy. That is why many specialists on our team get specially trained in the most modern and effective restoration techniques for all manner of contaminants and foreign substance so that this knowledge can get translated into a thorough and efficient process in your own home.

From the moment that our team arrives at your property, we put on our protective equipment and begin meticulously assessing the damage and hazards present in your home. This process provides a concise strategy for our SERVPRO technicians to follow, from the tools that we need, to the techniques to employ. This inspection also details the areas that require our attention overall, from issues with building materials that require cleaning or replacement to widespread concerns that simultaneously affect multiple rooms.

There are unfortunate circumstances that can make it unsafe to live in your own home. When you need biohazard cleanup and restoration services, trust the SERVPRO of West Riverside City team to help you through every step of this delicate process. Give us a call today at (951) 351-8033.

This page provides a listing of the Safety and Health Topics pages OSHA maintains for various biological agents and toxins. here.

Unattended Death in Riverside, What Should You Do?

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Cell phone with red screen and 911 dialed When discovering an unattended death, the first step is contact authorities by dialing 911.

Death is always difficult to face, especially when a loved one dies alone.

Death is called an unattended death and requires a thorough, careful approach to remediate the scene.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps you can take to clean up after an unattended death, and when to hire after death cleaning services.

What Does Unattended Death Mean?

The term unattended death refers to a case where nobody discovers the deceased’s body for days, weeks, or months.

Today, unattended deaths are most common with older adults, especially those who live alone and do not have family or friends that check on them frequently. In other cases, unattended death can be the result of an accident, suicide, or homicide. 

What to Do after an Unattended Death

When a person dies, the natural process of decomposition begins quickly. Within hours of death, dangerous bacteria are released into the air surrounding the body and will start to impact nearby materials. This bacteria causes the odor of decomposition, and remediating it requires a comprehensive, skilled approach. It’s not enough to bleach the floors and throw away the bedding.

Instead, take the following steps to begin reclaiming the area:

  • Contact the authorities. The first thing you should do if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of discovering an unattended death is to call 911. Police will arrive at the scene to investigate and determine the cause of death. Even if the deceased died of natural causes, this is a critical step. The police will help you contact the local coroner’s office, who will transport the body to the morgue. 
  • Notify friends and family. Since the death was unattended, friends and family won’t know the deceased has passed. Reach out to notify friends, family members, congregants at the individual’s church, and other individuals in the social circle of the person’s passing. 
  • Avoid DIY cleanup. Biohazard cleanup can be dangerous. Don’t risk your health or wellbeing by trying to clean the area on your own. Instead, contact a professional cleanup service to deal with substances like bodily fluids, blood, and other pathogens. You should also wait to collect sentimental items from the deceased’s home, as they may be contaminated. 

Why is Proper Unattended Death Cleanup Important?

Cleaning and sanitizing an area after an unattended death isn’t an easy job. When an unattended death occurs in a residence, it creates a variety of infectious materials that can be dangerous for years–unless they’re dealt with properly. If you intended to sell or rent the property in the future, it’s critical to ensure proper cleanup now. 

Here are a few reasons it’s critical to hire a professional unattended-death cleanup team: 

  • Porous material, including wood, carpet, drywall, and concrete absorb body fluids. Unfortunately, surface cleaning these porous materials won’t sterilize them, and you should never attempt to do so on your own. Instead, contact a bioremediation company that can properly dispose of these items for you.
  • Depending on the health of the deceased person before their death, there’s a potential to encounter bloodborne pathogens at the unattended death site, which can be dangerous for anyone in the area. Professional cleanup crews wearing commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) are the only ones who can enter the area safely.
  • While decomposition is perfectly normal, traditional home cleaning solutions aren’t sufficient to safely clean, sanitize and disinfect areas affected by human decomposition. Instead, you need a professional team that has access to the cleaning compounds and commercial tools needed to resolve contamination resulting from decomposition. 
  • It’s impossible to get rid of all traces of biological material with DIY cleaning tactics. Unfortunately, even a trace amount of biological material left behind can make a residence unsafe to live in and render it impossible to sell or rent. 

Don’t the Police Help Clean up? 

The short answer to this question is no. Paramedics, law enforcement officials, the county coroner, and fire rescue teams may all respond to an unattended death scene, but none of them are responsible for cleaning and sanitizing the space afterward. 

Instead, these professionals typically recommend contacting a privately-owned company like SERVPRO of West Riverside for unattended death cleanup services. Teams like ours are the only professionals who understand how to use microorganisms to degrade and neutralize organic contaminants and sanitize an unattended death site. 

What is the Cost of Unattended Death Cleanup?

The costs of unattended death cleanup vary depending on the severity of the scene, your location, how long the body has been unattended, the number of technicians needed to sanitize a space, the amount of time they spend doing so, and the extent of organic matter in the area. 

SERVPRO of West Riverside City Can Help With Bio Cleanup

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

yellow background with black symbol for Bio hazard Our technician is certified in Crime Scene and Trauma cleanup.

What is a Bio-Hazard? Well the dictionary definition is "a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment."

Our Primary Concern

It often comes to our attention as a result of a serious injury or death. Cleaning up a Bio-Hazard has many aspects to it. Our primary concern is to make sure our employees and others in the vicinity do not become injured as a result of working in that environment. Blood and any associated blood borne pathogens need to be properly handled due to their inherent risk to humans.

Required PPE

Proper personal protective equipment is just the start. Anyone working with bio-hazards needs proper training in procedures, respirator protection, health and safety and hazard communications. Items such as needles, broken glass or other sharp objects need to be handled very carefully and preferably with a tool that limits our need to contact it.

What Should be Disposed of

Materials that have come in direct contact with blood need to be properly disposed with a licensed waste hauler. This may include PPE, clothing, items used to actually do the cleanup such as paper products and rags, and any cloth material that needed to be removed from the affected site such as cushions, carpeting, bedding, etc.

This work is not particularly difficult, but being able to do the work properly takes a lot of training, planning, careful following of procedures.

 Certification

Bio-hazard cleanup is different than any other type of cleanup. Not only is there special training to ensure the safety of the workers, occupants, and other people who may have access to the affected area, but there are other issues as well.

We are Empathetic to the Situation

If the cleanup is in a home or residential facility, emotions will be involved. Was it an accident? Was it fatal? What connections to the injured party does everyone have? 

Commercial Safety is Important

If the cleanup is in a commercial facility, is the potential risk of injury to others corrected? Can work continue while the cleanup is being performed, or are critical areas of the facility shut down?

Who Should You Call?

SERVPRO of West Riverside City is fully trained and experienced to handle these cleanups with professional staff that are kind empathetic and caring. 

Our technician is certified in Crime Scene and Trauma cleanup.  We work closely with Sheriff Department and local morgue who contact us for such cleanups.

As tough as these jobs are, it is important to do them right; the first time.

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City: 951.351.8033 

What is Really Going on Behind Closed Doors

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

a young hand holding the hand of an elderly person We are here to help for those sensitive situations.

What do all the following have in common?

Crime Scene Clean Up, Meth Labs, Vandalism, Unattended Deaths, Flooding, Sewage, Smoke Damage, Mold, Hoarders, Infectious Disease Contamination, Bat Guano, Homeless Encampment Clean Up, Medical Waste, Industrial Accidents, Animal Feces, Suicide and Flooding  

They are ALL Bio-hazards!!! 

Unfortunately, bio-hazard claims tend to be very expensive. Most of us do not plan to handle a bio hazard situation. Whether you are a homeowner, insurance agent, property manager or real estate broker some of the issues you are apt to face include: 

  • Health & Safety of occupants/insured 
  • Cost to clean the bio-hazard 
  • Response times of cleaning company—longer response times increases damage and cost 
  • Selling or renting a property after a bio-hazard/stigmatized properties 
  • Stalling sales time 
  • Disclosure issues and liability 

What can you do about it? Well, it is nearly impossible and quite unimaginable to plan for a bio-hazard situation, but here are some tips that may help: 

Have a plan and a reliable company you can turn to in a time of crisis.

 Know who to call?---I hear SERVPRO is very GOOD  

  • Faster response times will limit and/or reduce damages. 
  • Use certified and reputable vendors with bio-hazard experience and training in order to reduce liability and overall cost. 

Remember to have compassion for the clients 

  • Keep in mind that clients are often traumatized by these incidents. 
  • Fast restoration response times go a long way towards helping clients move forward emotionally. 
  • Use professional vendors that are trained to treat clients with compassion. 

Find out about the procedures and relative costs of a bio-hazard clean up 

  • Bio-hazards can be one of the most expensive claims, but if you have an idea of what your restoration vendor will be doing it will help you to understand the costs better and guard against bad vendor price gouging. 
  • Use vendors that have a scientific and approved protocol for addressing a bio-hazard 
  • Check out this link to The Insurance Journal to get an idea of what procedures are followed by professional bio-hazard restoration vendors. 

Dealing with a biohazard can be very traumatic and at times confusing. SERVPRO is a specialized vendor that is trained and certified to deal with bio-hazard situations. If you have questions concerning bio-hazard issues, give us a call at 951-351-8033 and we will be happy to answer any of your questions.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City has the certification to handle BIOHazard, bloodborne pathogens, or infectious disease.  We can handle all emergencies.

SERVPRO of West Riverside

951-351-8033

https://www.SERVPROwestriversidecity.com/trauma-crime-scene-cleanup

Do you Have a Septic Tank in your Riverside Home?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Animated drawing of septic tank SERVPRO of Riverside City has the certification to handle sewage leak. We are here to help!

We don't run into too many septic system overflows in this part of Riverside, but if you happen to live or have a property in a rural area, for sure you have an idea about how septic tanks and the septic systems work.

One way you’ll know if it’s maintained properly is if you don’t smell anything unpleasant coming from it. Now, there are a number of crucial do’s and don’ts to live by to ensure that your septic tank will last for as long as possible and that your septic system works the way it should. Here they are.

DO use high-quality toilet tissue only.

When shopping for toiletries, pick a toilet tissue that’s been proven to break up easily when wet. This way, it won’t cause any trouble when it’s already in your septic tank.

DO keep trees away from the septic system.

There are trees which have roots that grow and extend aggressively. They should be kept far from the septic system to avoid any damage. You can plant grass instead in the drainfield area to prevent and minimize the instances of soil erosion.

DO divert rainwater away from the drainfield.

When the drainfield is soggy, it would have challenges in absorbing liquid wastes. To prevent this, landscaping and foundation drains should be planned and executed accurately. Consult a professional regarding this matter.

DO perform regular maintenance.

Make sure your septic tank is maintained every one to three years by a professional. Now, the frequency of having your septic tank pumped will depend on its size, the amount of solids that go into it, and the volume of wastewater. It’s best to consult a professional again to know how often you should have your septic tank maintenance done.

DON’T allow an excessive amount of water to be discharged into the septic system.

It will cause the system to back up and will also affect the biological balance within the septic tank.

DON’T dump grease down the drain.

Grease can build up in the septic tank and plug the sewer pipes. So be sure it doesn’t find its way on the drain by having a separate container for it.

  Have you Experienced Septic Tank Issues?  Here's what you should know

Watch out: sewage spills contain contaminants that can cause serious illness or disease. Disease causing agents in raw sewage include bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses and can cause serious illnesses including Hepatitis A.

If a building has been flooded by sewage or wastewater there may be unsafe electrical wiring, bacterial and pathogen hazards, mold hazards, even unsafe mechanical systems.

  • Turn off electrical power in the area that has been flooded if there is any chance of electrical wires, extension cords, or electrical appliances or fixtures coming in contact with standing water or wet materials
  • Vacate sewage-contaminated areas right away. Areas of sewage spill should not be occupied by people who are not wearing appropriate protective equipment as they are dangerous:
  • Stop flushing toilets
  • Turn off running water that is sending water into the drain system (clothes washer, sinks etc)

If the sewage or wastewater are being spread by water from a burst plumbing supply or hot water heating pipe, turn off the water to the building and if needed for safety or to stop further you may also need to turn off the (hot water or steam) heating system.

Items that have been soaked and are not salvageable may best be placed outdoors. By removing wet and contaminated materials from the building it may be easier to inspect, repair leaks, and clean the building itself.

Watch out: do not handle sewage-contaminated materials without proper personal safety protection: there are bacterial, pathogenic, respiratory and infection hazards.

  • Act promptly.
  • Watch out: The longer that sewage waters remain in a building or on its contents the greater the chance of spreading illness or disease and the greater the chance of causing a costly mold contamination problem in addition to the sewage problem. High indoor moisture caused by standing water can cause mold contamination to form on other building surfaces even if they were not directly wet by the sewage spill.
  • Don't panic: while prompt action is needed as we just explained, don't be in such a rush that you do something dangerous. Also, if you sound terrified when calling a contractor for assistance the result may be the imposition of inappropriate or costly steps.
  • Call a professional water damage restoration authority - For other than a trivial spill on a tiled bathroom floor you may need help from a professional water damage or restoration company.
  • Notify your insurance company that there has been a sewage spill in the building
  • Notify your municipal authority or sewer department if your home is connected to a public sewer
  • Contact your local health department for advice if your home is connected to a private septic system

SERVPRO of Riverside City has the certification to handle sewage leak. We are here to help!

Inland Empire Death Scene Clean-Up: A Tough Subject

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

The hand of an elderly person holding hand of a younger person Families are impacted with the death of a loved one and sometimes don’t know where to turn when that death happens in a home.

I debated writing this blog for quite some time. But this week we received a call from a Property Management company, and it hit me that even though it’s not the easiest topic to discuss, it is worth the discussion. Families are impacted with the death of a loved one and sometimes don’t know where to turn when that death happens in a home.

The clean-up that is needed after an unattended death is not easy to write about and is definitely not something a sales or marketing person wants to talk about. I have never personally experienced a suicide of  anyone close to me and I can't imagine the anguish a family goes through as they process that death is debilitating. The clean-up afterward can obviously prove too traumatic for a family to perform. The same can be said when an elderly loved one dies alone. Body decomposition, though natural, is very hazardous to anyone in and or around the area.

Cleaning up can be emotionally challenging, not to mention dangerous if blood and/or other bodily fluids are involved. Our team at SERVPRO of West Riverside City will treat the family and their loved one’s property with the greatest empathy. Our goal after a death is to remove the burden of cleaning up by those family members left behind.

Many times, our own team is impacted with strong feelings or reactions to the death, despite having no acquaintance with the victim. Our team has the training and experience to stay focused on the unique nature of their cleaning task. They are cleaning and restoring the site of the traumatic event. They are preforming an invaluable service to the customer. Our hope, is that our clean-up process will help the customer recover in a small way from the aftermath of the loss of life.

Many people don’t realize that insurance policies often offer coverage for crime scene and trauma cleaning, so it’s crucial to check with the insurance policy adjuster to determine if coverage is offered.

All these are reasons why I feel it’s important to write this blog. Helping a family in their time of need by responding 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help them restore their lives is of the utmost importance to us.

While we hope that you never have to experience a death that needs Biohazard Clean-up, we do want to let you know that there are experts out there who will help if ever the need arises.

Need help? (951) 351-8033

Why Reach out to SERVPRO?

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of West Riverside City is trained to safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are here to help transform any unsafe environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding, or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. SERVPRO has developed the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, a specialized cleaning program that goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning, providing a proactive viral pathogen cleaning service. Learn more about the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program to safeguard your customers and employees.

The SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

  • Suicide/death accidents
  • Homicide cleanups
  • Blood cleanup
  • Accident cleanup
  • Hoarding scenes
  • Animal waste/remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Tear gas cleanup
  • Meth lab cleanup

SERVPRO's Use of Personal Protective Equipment

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Gray background a person wearing white personal protective equipment, with blue gloves & blue facemask with words in blue PPE Appropriate use of PPE keeps SERVPRO Technicians safe when performing Sanitizing and Cleaning.

In our line of work, SERVPRO® technicians come into contact with hazards that could cause injury and must use special personal protective equipment or PPE. Some examples of these hazards could be environments with dust, fumes, smoke or some that pose a biological or chemical threat if exposed and viruses. All technicians are trained in identifying when PPE is necessary on a jobsite, what and how to wear each item. It is also extremely important to understand the limitations of the personal protective equipment, useful life and proper disposal procedures.

On a CAT 3 site, you would see the following PPE on a SERVPRO® of West Riverside City technician:

  • Goggles: to protect technician’s eyes from hazardous materials
  • Respirator: to protect technician’s lungs from airborne contaminants
  • Suit/gloves: one-time use, disposable protective wear used to protect the technician’s skin from coming into contact with hazardous materials
  • CDC outlines how to DON and DOFF Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    How to Put On (Don) PPE Gear

    More than one donning method may be acceptable. Training and practice using your healthcare facility’s procedure is critical. Below is one example of donning.

  • Identify and gather the proper PPE to don. Ensure choice of gown size is correct (based on training).
  • Perform hand hygiene using hand sanitizer.
  • Put on isolation gown. Tie all of the ties on the gown. Assistance may be needed by other healthcare personnel.
  • Put on NIOSH-approved N95 filtering facepiece respirator or higher (use a facemask if a respirator is not available). If the respirator has a nosepiece, it should be fitted to the nose with both hands, not bent or tented. Do not pinch the nosepiece with one hand. Respirator/facemask should be extended under chin. Both your mouth and nose should be protected. Do not wear respirator/facemask under your chin or store in scrubs pocket between patients.*
  • Respirator: Respirator straps should be placed on crown of head (top strap) and base of neck (bottom strap). Perform a user seal check each time you put on the respirator.
  • Facemask: Mask ties should be secured on crown of head (top tie) and base of neck (bottom tie). If mask has loops, hook them appropriately around your ears.
  • Put on face shield or goggles. Face shields provide full face coverage. Goggles also provide excellent protection for eyes, but fogging is common.
  • Perform hand hygiene before putting on gloves. Gloves should cover the cuff (wrist) of gown.
  • Healthcare personnel may now enter patient room.
  • How to Take Off (Doff) PPE Gear

    More than one doffing method may be acceptable. Training and practice using your healthcare facility’s procedure is critical. Below is one example of doffing.

  • Remove gloves. Ensure glove removal does not cause additional contamination of hands. Gloves can be removed using more than one technique (e.g., glove-in-glove or bird beak).
  • Remove gown. Untie all ties (or unsnap all buttons). Some gown ties can be broken rather than untied. Do so in gentle manner, avoiding a forceful movement. Reach up to the shoulders and carefully pull gown down and away from the body. Rolling the gown down is an acceptable approach. Dispose in trash receptacle. *
  • Healthcare personnel may now exit patient room.
  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Remove face shield or goggles. Carefully remove face shield or goggles by grabbing the strap and pulling upwards and away from head. Do not touch the front of face shield or goggles.
  • Remove and discard respirator (or facemask if used instead of respirator). Do not touch the front of the respirator or facemask.*
  • Respirator: Remove the bottom strap by touching only the strap and bring it carefully over the head. Grasp the top strap and bring it carefully over the head, and then pull the respirator away from the face without touching the front of the respirator.
  • Facemask: Carefully untie (or unhook from the ears) and pull away from face without touching the front.
  • Perform hand hygiene after removing the respirator/facemask and before putting it on again if your workplace is practicing reuse.*
  • * Facilities implementing reuse or extended use of PPE will need to adjust their donning and doffing procedures to accommodate those practices.

    Sewage Cleanup: Why It’s Important to Clean Your System

    4/6/2020 (Permalink)

    white background with green letters spelling "contact us" If you need sewage cleanup services in Riverside, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can help. Contact us today!

    Before the invention of indoor and outdoor plumbing systems, millions of people died from contaminated water and bacterial infections. Luckily, today, these diseases have been mostly eradicated. Plumbing systems work silently in the background to keep us safe, and our homes and communities clean. But what happens when sewage systems back up and sewage cleanup becomes a code red on your to-do list?

    Sewage is a bio-hazard and considered a Category 3 Blackwater, posing significant risks to your health. When sewage systems go awry, it must be dealt with efficiently, safely, and fast. Sewage cleanup is a labor-intensive and dangerous job. Homeowners should not attempt to clean up sewage unless it’s a tiny spill. Call a plumber and sewage cleanup specialist as soon as possible if you’re having problems with your system. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your sewage system so that you can prevent costly repairs in the future. 

    Why is it Important to Clean Your Sewage System Regularly?

    For homeowners, plumbing and septic systems are easy to overlook. These critical systems hardly give us any trouble, and it’s easy to forget about them while they work in the background, on autopilot, and silently. Most people don’t even think about their septic system unless something goes wrong. But a malfunctioning septic system can be an absolute nightmare to deal with. Sewage problems are not only costly to fix; they are a hazard to one’s health and property. While your septic system is working below ground to keep you and your home clean and safe, problems could be forming beneath the surface. Regular maintenance can prevent septic issues. 

    Clean the Drains to Maintain Sewage System Integrity

    A clogged pipe is the most common problem that your septic system will face if it’s not maintained correctly. As the months and years pass, debris will build up along the sides of the pipes. If water is taking way too long to drain, it could be indicating either a clogged pipe or a sewer system backup. 

    A professional should clean and inspect the property’s drains at least every two years. Why, you ask? Well, checking the drains at this interval ensures that any small problems are caught before they become big problems. A clogged drain that goes left unnoticed can cause significant damage to your home if it’s not fixed. Some signs of impending drain trouble include:

  • Strange noises coming from the drains (such as gurgling or knocking sounds)
  • Sink and shower drains that take too long to work
  • Appliances like dish and clothes washers taking too long to drain
  • While it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect the drains every two years, drains can become clogged in between these inspections. Homeowners can take steps to prevent drain issues in the meantime:

  • Never rinse greasy, oily, or corrosive substances down the drains
  • Do not flush solid objects down the toilet (paper towels, wipes, etc.)
  • Use natural cleaners to remove minor drain clogs
  • Even wipes that say “flushable” should never be flushed down the toilet. Creating a drain cleaner of baking soda and white vinegar can clear and clean the drains in-between plumbing inspections. 

    Clean the System to Prevent Bacterial Contamination

    If the sewage system gets backed up with clogged pipes and slow drains, bacteria has a perfect pathway into your home. Even if the pipes are only partially blocked, this gives pathogens the ideal environment to grow and multiply. Germs will gather within not just the shower and sink drains, but also in the appliances where you wash your dishes and clothes. In some cases, bacteria can leach out of the sewage system and contaminate the groundwater on your property. 

    Worst case scenario? The sewage system will completely back up. Wastewater will make its way into your home, contaminating your floors and carpets. If this happens, you’ll need to evacuate the home until a sewage cleanup and restoration specialist and a plumber can fix the damage and decontaminate your house. Sewage backups can destroy a basement or a bathroom. 

    Clean the Sewage System and Prevent Damaged Drains

    A clogged drain will make the plumbing systems corrode much more quickly than usual. With regular septic maintenance, you can extend the life of the pipes. Clogs will corrode the pipes rapidly, causing leaks that may go unnoticed for months. Fixing a leaking pipe takes time and money, and you may end up needing to replace flooring or drywall on top of it. 

    Another primary source of sewage system issues is pipe damage from tree roots. Tree roots will search for water, breaking through the pipes in search of moisture and nutrients. By regularly inspecting and cleaning your sewer system, you’ll be able to spot these issues before they become major headaches and hits to your wallet. 

    What do you do if you need sewage cleanup services?

    Sewage spills can cause significant damage to your property and pose a health risk to you and your family. You’ll need to contact a sewage cleanup professional in Riverside immediately if your septic system fails. The longer the contaminated water is left to pool in the home, the higher the risk of severe water damage and disease. 

    How can a professional sewage cleanup specialist help?

    Professional sewage cleaners have the skills, knowledge, and equipment to safely and appropriately remove unsafe blackwater from septic failures. They will clean and sanitize the home while decontaminating your property. If the home has water damage issues, a professional can perform necessary water damage restoration throughout the property as needed. In some cases, mold may form and pose another hazard on top of the sewage backup. Professional sewage cleaners can also remove mold and prevent future mold growth, keeping the air you breathe inside the home safe and clean. 

    If you need sewage cleanup services in Riverside, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can help. Contact us today to restore your home to its original condition. 

    Tips for Choosing the Right Biohazard Cleanup Service in Riverside City

    11/18/2019 (Permalink)

    2 men dressed in proper head to toe white personal protective gear. With mask, goggle and gloves.  Holding a trash bag. In addition to proper training and experience, a person involved in biohazard remediation must have proper personal protective gear or PPE.

     If you’ve found yourself in a position in which you require the services of a biohazard cleaning company, ensure that you hire the best biohazard remediation service for the job.

    Questions you should ask

    • How long have you been in business
    • What type of insurance does your company maintain
    • Are your registered with the State of California
    • How does the company respect privacy
    • What are your hours of availability

    Always Choose Trained Professionals

    • Because it’s traumatic: No one should have to deal with the personal impact of cleaning up after the traumatic loss of a loved one. A professional SERVPRO can get a situation cleaned up quickly, compassionately and discreetly.
    • Because it’s safer: Federal regulations classify all human and animal remains, including blood, urine, feces, vomit and bodily fluids, as biohazards. This is because they have the potential of carrying life-threatening pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV, MRSA, Tuberculosis and many more. The safe cleanup and removal of bio-hazardous materials involves extensive analysis and detailed work, and the use of state-of-the-art cleaning and odor removal technologies.

    Need Biohazard Cleanup? Call Us Today – 951-351-8033

    Licensed Bonded & Insured

    • It is important to use licensed professionals because they conduct safe cleanup, removal and disposal of bio-hazardous waste. Additional considerations include being registered and compliant with OSHA and FEMA, federal agencies that oversee disasters and workplace safety. Cleanup crews will be coming into your home or the home of your loved one, so be sure the professional you choose is bonded and insured.

    Approved Vendors for Most Major Insurance Companies

    • In most cases, insurance will cover much or all of the cost of traumatic even cleanup. You can minimize or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses by working with licensed and bonded professionals such as SERVPRO of West Riverside City who will deal directly with insurance companies, saving you one more headache in this already difficult process.

    We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

    • Suicide/death accidents
    • Homicide cleanups
    • Blood cleanup
    • Accident cleanup
    • Hoarding scenes
    • Animal waste/remains
    • Chemical spills
    • Tear gas cleanup
    • Meth lab cleanup

    FAQ

    Q: Can I just use my regular cleaning or janitorial service for biohazard cleanup of blood or bodily fluids?

    A: Not unless your regular cleaning or janitorial service has been properly trained and equipped to handle biohazard cleanup and waste such as blood or bodily fluids, and has a legal place to dispose of the recovered biohazardous waste.

    Q: Who pays for bio-recovery services?

    A: In many cases home, business or auto insurance will pay for bio-recovery services. Ultimately the property owner may be responsible for cost of the service.

    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 biohazard cleanup of blood spills without first:

    1. Receiving Blood Borne Pathogen (bbp) training.
    2. Having a written BBP exposure control plan.
    3. Having been provided personal protective equipment.
    4. Having been offered Hepatitis B vaccine and exposure evaluation and follow-up.
    5. Being provided with a method to remove and properly store the bio-hazardous waste in properly marked containers for disposal at an approved site.

    Universal Precautions and Protective Attire in California

    Following the OSHA Blood Pathogens Standard, the state of California has delineated the universal precautions, and associated protective attire, that must be utilized when workers are exposed to blood, other bodily fluids, and other biological materials. This includes workers in the healthcare as well as the biohazard remediation industries.

    Essential protective attire mandated by the state of California, following OSHA protocols, includes:

    • Disposable gloves
    • Protective gowns or uniforms (there is a preference, although no mandatory requirement, that this type of protective gear be disposable)
    • Protective eyewear and masks or face shields

    For more information please visit:

    The other OSHA requirements for blood cleanup include:

    • Immediately limit access to the area contaminated by blood, bodily fluids, or potentially hazardous biological materials.
    • Cleanup blood, fluids, and materials as quickly and thoroughly as possible.
    • Dispose of the collected blood (and other materials) together with the items used to cleanup these biomaterials in a proper biohazard receptacle.
    • Sanitize all items that came into contact with blood, fluids, or biological materials.
    • If sanitation is impossible, any contaminated items need to be removed and properly disposed of.
    • Although not a specific OSHA requirement, deodorization is another step taken when it comes to comprehensive remediation of a traumatic scene or other situation in which blood or other biomaterials are present.
    • Properly dispose of all protective gear utilized in the blood cleanup process.
    • Safely and properly transport all items designated for disposal to a licensed biological material and hazardous waste disposal provider.

    Summary

    The OSHA requirements for cleaning up biohazardous waste are designed to fulfill the underlying mission of the agency. The mission of OSHA, since its creation, is “to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.” Thus, the agency maintains resources of different types that are designed to ensure that a business with workers exposed to biohazardous waste is able to develop suitable safety protocols.  See

    Choosing the Right Biohazard Cleanup Service in Riverside

    7/22/2019 (Permalink)

    Biohazard cleanup requires professional equipment, following OSHA standards and disposing the waste, including blood, and bodily fluids safely.

    Always Choose Trained Professionals

  • Because it’s traumatic: No one should have to deal with the personal impact of cleaning up after the traumatic loss of a loved one. A professional SERVPRO can get a situation cleaned up quickly, compassionately and discreetly.
  • Because it’s safer: Federal regulations classify all human and animal remains, including blood, urine, feces, vomit and bodily fluids, as biohazards. This is because they have the potential of carrying life-threatening pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV, MRSA, Tuberculosis and many more. The safe cleanup and removal of biohazardous materials involves extensive analysis and detailed work, and the use of state-of-the-art cleaning and odor removal technologies.
  • Need Biohazard Cleanup? Call Us Today – 951-351-8033

    Licensed Bonded & Insured

  • It is important to use licensed professionals because they conduct safe cleanup, removal and disposal of bio-hazardous waste. Additional considerations include being registered and compliant with OSHA and FEMA, federal agencies that oversee disasters and workplace safety. Cleanup crews will be coming into your home or the home of your loved one, so be sure the professional you choose is bonded and insured.
  • Approved Vendors for Most Major Insurance Companies

  • In most cases, insurance will cover much or all of the cost of traumatic even cleanup. You can minimize or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses by working with licensed and bonded professionals such as SERVPRO of West Riverside City who will deal directly with insurance companies, saving you one more headache in this already difficult process.
  • We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

  • Sewage backups
  • Crime scene residues
  • Suicide/death accidents
  • Homicide cleanups
  • Blood cleanup
  • Accident cleanup
  • Hoarding scenes
  • Animal waste/remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Tear gas cleanup
  • Meth lab cleanup
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Q. Can I just use my regular cleaning or janitorial service for biohazard cleanup of blood or bodily fluids?

    A: Not unless your regular cleaning or janitorial service has been properly trained and equipped to handle biohazard cleanup and waste such as blood or bodily fluids, and has a legal place to dispose of the recovered biohazardous waste.

    Q: Who pays for bio-recovery services?

    A: In many cases home, business or auto insurance will pay for bio-recovery services. Ultimately the property owner may be responsible for cost of the service.

    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 biohazard cleanup of blood spills without first:

  • Receiving Blood Borne Pathogen (bbp) training.
  • Having a written BBP exposure control plan.
  • Having been provided personal protective equipment.
  • Having been offered Hepatitis B vaccine and exposure evaluation and follow-up.
  • Being provided with a method to remove and properly store the bio-hazardous waste in properly marked containers for disposal at an approved site.
  • For more information please visit:

  • Biohazard Cleanup & Restoration by SERVPRO
  • Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives
  • Trauma & Crime Scene
  • Vandalism & Graffiti
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Waste Laws & Regulations Information
  • An ordinary cleaning crew is untrained in the cleanup of biohazard materials and crime scenes. The property affected by biohazard waste must be fully decontaminated to be habitable again.

    When selecting a vendor to provide biohazard cleaning services, first make sure the company complies with all OSHA standards, not only with the Bloodborne Pathogens program. OSHA regulations that must be followed during the cleanup include Personal Protective Equipment, Hazard Communication and Heat Illness, among others.

    Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City we can help.  951-351-8033. 

    Examples of Biohazard and What To Do About Them

    6/13/2019 (Permalink)

    Biohazard is an umbrella term for biological materials that are a threat to living organisms.

    If you own or manage a Riverside commercial property, biohazards can pose serious harm. Not just to you, but anyone who frequents your establishment. Biohazards could show up almost anywhere. If you have commercial property it is extremely important to be cautious of this threat. However, some people may not know everything that the word biohazard encompasses and how to clean it up. It covers numerous materials. There are even levels of biohazard, each one presenting different threats.

    Examples of Biohazard

    There are different kinds of biohazard. It is possible that some of these examples will never present themselves in your building. Of course, that does not mean you are safe from harmful materials. Blood is a huge biohazard risk. This also includes anything that has come into contact with blood, or other bodily fluids. Bloodborne pathogens and fluids can lead to disease if they come into contact with someone. Animal bedding and animal waste are also threats. This is especially true if the animal is sick in anyway. Microbiological waste is another example of biohazard. Of course, this kind of threat is more common in labs. A threat that is common in medical settings is sharps waste. This includes needles, glass slides, and scalpels.

    While your Riverside commercial property may not be exposed to as many biohazards as other places, it is still exposed. It may not be obvious, but biohazards will be a threat no matter what.  SERVPRO of West Riverside City can clean it up safely and efficiently.

    Levels of Biohazard

    There are numerous levels of biohazard, four to be exact, with different threats. Level one includes E. Coli, Bacillus subtilis, and more. These materials are just a minimal threat to people and the environment. Level two includes HIV, Hepatitis B, and Salmonella. These have the possibility to make people extremely sick. Level two biohazards are contracted through contact with any infected materials or items. Level three includes tuberculosis and other airborne pathogens. They expose people to serious illnesses. Level four biohazards pose the highest threat levels. The diseases they cause have no treatments, and could even be life threatening. This includes the Ebola and Lassa viruses. For threats of this nature it is recommended to contact your nearest EPA office for help.

    What Do You Do About Them

    If there is biohazard exposure in your Andersonville commercial property you may have no idea what to do. It needs to be cleaned immediately, but most levels require specialty cleaning services. These services are trained to get rid of the problem quickly and efficiently. However, if you have no experience with this, you might not know who to call. SERVPRO of West River City is a 24/7 company that specializes in cleaning up many levels of biohazard exposure. We comply with health regulations and possess all of the equipment needed for safe disposal. We will decontaminate your building in the event of trauma, chemical spills, sewage backups, hoarding, and more. When it comes to biohazard, the substances must be cleaned up properly to prevent serious health risks. SERVPRO of West Riverside City will make sure this gets done so your Riverside building can go back to normal.  

    Always Choose Trained Professionals

  • Because it’s traumatic: No one should have to deal with the personal impact of cleaning up after the traumatic loss of a loved one. A professional SERVPRO can get a situation cleaned up quickly, compassionately and discreetly.
  • Because it’s safer: Federal regulations classify all human and animal remains, including blood, urine, feces, vomit and bodily fluids, as biohazards. This is because they have the potential of carrying life-threatening pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV, MRSA, Tuberculosis and many more. The safe cleanup and removal of biohazardous materials involves extensive analysis and detailed work, and the use of state-of-the-art cleaning and odor removal technologies.
  • Need Biohazard Cleanup? Call Us Today – 951-351-8033

    Licensed Bonded & Insured

  • It is important to use licensed professionals because they conduct safe cleanup, removal and disposal of bio-hazardous waste. Additional considerations include being registered and compliant with OSHA and FEMA, federal agencies that oversee disasters and workplace safety. Cleanup crews will be coming into your home or the home of your loved one, so be sure the professional you choose is bonded and insured.
  • Approved Vendors for Most Major Insurance Companies

  • In most cases, insurance will cover much or all of the cost of traumatic event cleanup. You can minimize or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses by working with licensed and bonded professionals such as SERVPRO of West Riverside City who will deal directly with insurance companies, saving you one more headache in this already difficult process.
  • We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

  • Sewage backups
  • Crime scene residues
  • Suicide/death accidents
  • Homicide cleanups
  • Blood cleanup
  • Accident cleanup
  • Hoarding scenes
  • Animal waste/remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Tear gas cleanup
  • Meth lab cleanup
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Q. Can I just use my regular cleaning or janitorial service for biohazard cleanup of blood or bodily fluids?

    A: Not unless your regular cleaning or janitorial service has been properly trained and equipped to handle biohazard cleanup and waste such as blood or bodily fluids, and has a legal place to dispose of the recovered biohazardous waste.

    Q: Who pays for bio-recovery services?

    A: In many cases home, business or auto insurance will pay for bio-recovery services. Ultimately the property owner may be responsible for cost of the service.

    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 biohazard cleanup of blood spills without first:

  • Receiving Blood Borne Pathogen (bbp) training.
  • Having a written BBP exposure control plan.
  • Having been provided personal protective equipment.
  • Having been offered Hepatitis B vaccine and exposure evaluation and follow-up.
  • Being provided with a method to remove and properly store the bio-hazardous waste in properly marked containers for disposal at an approved site.
  • For more information please visit:

  • Biohazard Cleanup & Restoration by SERVPRO
  • Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives
  • Trauma & Crime Scene
  • Vandalism & Graffiti
  • Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Biosafety
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Waste Laws & Regulations Information
  • What is Containment and Why is it Important for Your Riverside Home and Buildings

    6/3/2019 (Permalink)

    This Riverside home experienced sewage leak, as you can see SERVPRO contained an area to avoid microorganisms from affecting the rest of the home.

    When it comes to the restoration and remediation industry, you quickly learn that remediation gets rid of the bad stuff while restoration replaces the good stuff.

    But often, little mention is given to the first part of the disaster relief team – containment. Yet, proper protocol says to first contain, then remediate and restore.

    So what is containment and why is it important? Specifically, containment is preventing something from escaping. The restoration professional is likely to encounter substances like mold, microbial (naturally occurring micro-organisms), toxin-producing pathogens, friable lead and asbestos. Most of these toxins are very small and can easily hitch a ride on normal air currents found in most buildings. Without containing these potentially toxic substances, at the source and within a confined area, they are likely to end up creating a significantly larger mess than first encountered and quickly saturate the air being inhaled by workers, homeowners and occupants of the affected buildings.

    The Value of Effective Containment

    For the homeowner:

  • Lessened health consequence
  • Less likely to be displaced
  • Shorter restoration time
  • Less property damage
  • No lost income
  • For the lessor:

  • Reduced liability
  • No loss of rental income
  • Lower repair costs
  • Property not devalued
  • For the insurer:

  • Lower liability
  • Reduced A.L.E.s
  • Lower cost of restoration
  • Quicker repair times
  • For the restoration company:

  • Showing you care drives sales
  • Helps manage work load
  • Lowers risks to employees
  • Lessens liability
  • Allows for faster turn times
  • Provides visible proof-of-work
  • May minimize re-clean, re-test
  • Within the protocols we use, there should be a very high value on containment because it alone has the ability to prevent further damage to health and property. It keeps a bad situation from getting worse. It puts a lid on it. Everything else addresses the aftermath.

    Containment is typically broken into two types: source and area containment.

    In talking about source containment, we can use an example of a broken water pipe. With water spewing everywhere, nobody in their right mind would even think about fixing and cleaning up the mess until the water valve was turned off first. That is source containment.

    For area containment, think of a quarantine room where someone sick is isolated. The point is not necessarily to keep the person inside, but to keep the pathogens contained and from escaping.

    In the first example, the water is quite visible. In the second, the pathogen is microscopic – invisible. This cloak of invisibility is probably the main reason some professionals don’t take containment so seriously. It is the perception that if you can’t see it, it doesn’t exist. 

    But it does exist. And in the case of some molds, just a slight breeze or vibration and they go into survival mode – spewing hundreds times more spores into the air. Without proper containment, the cost of the loss can increase dramatically. But the greater cost is in the potential health issues by carelessly allowing cross contamination. 

    Reducing the impact of tiny invisible airborne contaminants is exactly why containment is a valuable part of the protocol.

    If you will, picture each part of the mold protocol being a person, a specialist in charge of part of the disaster medical team. You would have a first responder (containment), a surgeon (remediation) and a physical therapist (restoration).  Each is tasked with a special function. The first responder stops the bleeding and gets the patient to the surgeon, who cuts away the damaged tissue and does the necessary surgery. The physical therapist gets the body working right again. 

    It is not uncommon to hear concern about reduced cleaning revenue due to better containment. Don’t do it ever! Not only is great containment going to endear you to your customer but the insurer and adjuster will appreciate that you prevented displacement which can cost them thousands of dollars. 

    As a restoration professional, containing the site should be of utmost concern for you and your employees. A safer work site always benefits the worker and the employer. Think lower workers compensation costs and liability costs.

    By effectively reducing the volume of mold spores by the use of source containment, testing is more likely to pass the first time out – reducing the cost of re-cleaning and testing a second time. The same holds true for effective area containment.

    While on this subject, the sequence of source containment and then area containment is important. By securing the site rapidly with source containment, you are avoiding mass propagation of mold spores while erecting area containment. There has already been some level of cross contamination prior to your arrival that will be addressed during remediation. Also, do not make the mistake of only source containment, as what’s behind the moldy surface will need to be contained when the wall is opened up. Don’t skip steps in protocol.

    At SERVPRO of West Riverside, we are prepared, alert and we will contain the problem as if someone’s life depended on it – as it very well may. 

    Let Us Protect You from Bio-Hazardous Contaminants

    5/29/2019 (Permalink)

    Let us protect you by using proper personal protection equipment and specially designed cleaning products to tackle the job

    Bio-hazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk.

    SERVPRO of West Riverside City professionals are trained to safely and effectively removed bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO professionals help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes, and offices.

    We can clean any catastrophic issue from bodily fluids to blood borne pathogens.  No clean-up is too big or too small, we have the training and know-how to tackle any job.  Let us protect you by using proper personal protection equipment and specially designed cleaning products to tackle the job and get your home or business back to a safe and clean condition.  We even have special products and techniques to tackle any odor that may be associated with the damages.  

    Blood-borne Pathogens

    SERVPRO West Riverside City remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

    Methamphetamine Labs

    Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of West Riverside City follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

    Crime Scene Residues

    From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can clean and restore your property and contents.

    Arson and Vandalism

    SERVPRO is recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

    Sewage Backup

    Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits- these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. SERVPRO help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

    What to Do After a Contamination

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
  • Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
  • Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.
  • What Not to Do After a Contamination

  • Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don’t use television or other household appliances.
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
  •  Bio-hazards like flood water or sewer backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of West Riverside City has water damage restoration specialists and has specific training and expertise to safely remediate bio-hazard contaminants.

    SERVPRO of West Riverside City ensures that your home or business is clean, sanitary, and safe for all habitants after it has been affected with a hazardous waste material.

    We can help you, call us anytime, day or night.  951-351-8033

    Why Professional Bio-Hazard Clean-Up Is Important

    1/9/2019 (Permalink)

    Bio-hazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk.

    Hazardous biological materials are very dangerous. They include blood-borne pathogens, microorganisms that live in sewage, and chemicals left behind from producing illegal drugs. In order to make spaces livable again where sewage backups, violent crimes, and drug production have taken place, you need professional bio-hazard clean-up.

    If you need professional bio-hazard clean-up in West Riverside City, contact the experts at SERVPRO today by calling (951) 351-8033.

    Advantages to Calling in the Pros

    Why not just clean up the area yourself? There are many reasons why it’s important to seek professional services.

    Exposure to bio-hazards could have serious health consequences

    The bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other pathogenic substances found in biological hazards may be inhaled, swallowed, or permitted to enter the body through damaged skin or mucous membranes. Exposure can happen whether you try to clean up the scene yourself or simply enter the vicinity. Bio-hazard exposure is linked to several health consequences:

  • Skin irritation: Direct contact with bio-hazards could cause a rash.
  • Allergies: Even if you aren’t already allergic to any fungus, mold, dust, enzymes, or mites found at a bio-hazard scene, exposure to it could cause you to develop an allergy that stays with you for the rest of your life.
  • Infections: Tuberculosis, AIDS, and hepatitis are just a few infections you could contract if a bio-hazard scene isn’t cleaned up thoroughly.
  • Poisoning: Potentially toxic concentrations of toxic materials could cause poisoning.
  • Cancer: Hazardous chemicals are the most likely bio-hazards to have the potential to cause cancer.
  • The clean-up process is carefully considered

    Clean-up crews don’t jump into the restoration process until they carefully assess the situation and determine the fastest and most thorough way to go about it. Bio-hazard clean-up usually takes one day or less.

    Bio-hazard clean-up crews are specially trained

    Clean-up personnel are educated on the best ways of cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing a bio-hazard area to make it livable again. Proper training goes beyond learning how to safely remove bio-hazards from an area; it also includes how to dispose of these substances in proper accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and local health regulations.

    Professionals have the right tools and protective equipment

    Different clean-up situations require different equipment, and professionals understand that. They come equipped with face protection, personal respirators, protective gloves and clothing, sturdy boots, and any other gear needed for the particular situation. Then, they use disinfecting and deodorizing products to leave the scene as good as new.

    Professionals understand the legal requirements of bio-hazard clean-up

    Because bio-hazard clean-up is a dangerous job, it’s important to put liability in the hands of a professional bio-hazard removal company. They perform all the necessary safety protocol to reduce worker risk and abide by state sanitary codes so you don’t have to.

    Bio-hazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide

     After any bio-hazard or sewage contamination in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.
  • Flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • What to Do After a Contamination

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
  • Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
  • Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.
  • What Not to Do After a Contamination

  • Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don’t use television or other household appliances.
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
  •  Contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City When You Need Professional Bio-Hazard Clean-Up

    Dealing with a bio-hazard scene is stressful. Take some of the worry away by choosing SERVPRO of West Riverside City to conduct the clean-up and restoration process.

    24 Hour Emergency Service

    Bio-hazards like flood water or sewer backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of West Riverside City has water damage restoration specialists and has specific training and expertise to safely remediate bio-hazard contaminants.

    SERVPRO of West Riverside City proudly serves Riverside and all surrounding areas.

    Contact us online or by phone at (951)351-8033 to schedule your bio-hazard clean-up.