Biohazard cleanup, also called biohazard response, is the cleanup of hazardous materials that might be dispersed on a contaminated site. In order to carry out the cleanup safely, most federal regulations stipulate the use of skilled workers who have the skills and qualifications for the job.
An overview of the process of cleaning up a bio-hazard spill requires the help of trained personnel to ensure the safety of the public and workers alike. As the spill takes place, individuals must be notified about the potential danger and made aware of the importance of remaining at the contaminated area until proper cleanup has taken place. Also, workers are instructed to protect themselves from the toxic substance by wearing personal protective equipment such as masks and safety goggles.
Decontamination can begin immediately after the spill and must be finished within 24 hours. This is so the cleanup workers can begin removing and disposing of the hazardous substances before they have time to contaminate the soil, water, and surrounding area. After the cleanup workers have completed the initial clean up of the site, it is important to keep the area sealed off limits to all but authorized personnel.
While there are no known health risks associated with contaminated land, water, or soil, it is still recommended that personal protective equipment be worn by cleanup workers. As contaminated soil is removed, people working around the area must remove any contaminated clothing and shoes and wash the contaminated area thoroughly with soap and water. It is also recommended that workers wear coveralls in case the contaminated soil spills onto their skin.
PPE needs to be worn in a safe manner, but this does not mean that individuals should be completely naked when dealing with bio-hazard contamination. Although most puddles will not contain large amounts of oil or other hazardous materials, some small leaks and spills may occur. Individuals must ensure that they are wearing gloves, goggles, and ear plugs to help prevent damage to their hearing.
Biohazard clean up experts recommend that cleanup crews do not touch the contaminated soil, as it is more likely to spread on other surfaces than it would on their bare hands. Instead, individuals should carefully read over the site plan and make sure that it includes emergency contact information so that the proper authorities can be contacted in the event of an emergency.
It is also important to hire an experienced contractor when tackling a biohazard cleanup process. Most cleaning professionals have the proper tools and equipment that can protect workers from direct exposure to the hazardous substances. This will minimize the chance of an accidental spill.
Health risks associated with a bio-hazard cleanup should never be underestimated. As long as appropriate precautions are taken and the correct authorities are contacted when an emergency occurs, clean up experts can help ensure the safety of the people and the environment involved in the bio-hazard cleanup.