How Homeowners Should Respond After a Biohazard Incident
Biohazard incidents are serious. Whether it’s a crime scene, trauma, sewage backup, or animal waste, these events can create dangerous conditions in your home. As a homeowner, it’s important to know how to respond quickly, safely, and responsibly.
At Biohazard Busters, we understand how upsetting and confusing this experience can be. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you handle a biohazard situation the right way.
What is a Biohazard?
Before we dive in, let’s define what a biohazard is.
A biohazard (biological hazard) is any material that threatens human health. This can include:
- Blood and bodily fluids
- Human or animal waste
- Used needles or sharp objects
- Pathogens (bacteria, viruses, mold, etc.)
- Dead animals or pests
- Sewage and contaminated water
These materials can spread serious diseases like hepatitis, HIV, MRSA, and more. That’s why cleanup isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about decontamination and restoring safety.
Step 1: Protect Yourself and Your Family
The first step is to keep everyone safe.
✔️ Evacuate the Area
If you know or suspect there’s a biohazard (like blood, feces, or chemicals), leave the area immediately. Don’t try to clean it yourself, especially if you don’t have proper protective gear.
✔️ Keep Kids and Pets Away
Children and pets are especially vulnerable. Make sure they stay far from the contaminated space until professionals arrive.
✔️ Avoid Touching Anything
Biohazards can cling to surfaces and even become airborne. Do not touch, move, or clean anything. This could spread the contamination further.
Step 2: Call Biohazard Busters
As soon as everyone is safe, call a certified cleanup company like Biohazard Busters.
We’re trained in handling all kinds of biohazards and use industry-grade PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), disinfectants, and equipment to restore your home safely.
🧼 Why Choose Us?
- 24/7 Emergency Service
- OSHA & EPA-Compliant
- Discreet, compassionate technicians
- Full decontamination & odor removal
- Insurance assistance
We know how to clean deeply—so your home is not just clean but safe.
Step 3: Document the Scene (If Safe)
If the area is secure and you’re able to do so from a safe distance, take photos or videos of the affected areas. This can help with:
- Insurance claims
- Police report (if it’s a crime or trauma scene)
- Cleanup verification
⚠️ Never touch anything or enter a dangerous area to take photos. Your safety comes first.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Next, call your homeowner’s insurance provider. Biohazard cleanup is often covered, especially in cases of:
- Crime scenes
- Unattended death
- Vandalism
- Water damage from backups
Please provide them with all the details and mention that Biohazard Busters is handling the cleanup. We can also work directly with your insurance to make the process easier.
Step 5: Don’t Attempt DIY Cleanup
We get it—some people want to jump in and fix things. But biohazard cleanup is not a DIY job.
Here’s why:
- Regular household cleaners don’t kill all pathogens
- You need PPE (gloves, goggles, suits, respirators)
- Improper cleaning can spread contamination
- You could risk your health and legal liability
Only trained professionals with certification and experience can properly clean and decontaminate biohazard sites.
Step 6: Trust the Professional Cleanup Process
At Biohazard Busters, we follow a step-by-step process to restore your home:
1. Assessment and Containment
We inspect the site, block off contaminated areas, and ensure no cross-contamination occurs.
2. Removal of Hazardous Materials
Biohazardous waste is safely removed and disposed of according to local, state, and federal laws.
3. Deep Cleaning and Disinfection
We use hospital-grade disinfectants to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
4. Deodorization
We eliminate odors using advanced equipment, including ozone machines and hydroxyl generators.
5. Restoration
We clean, restore, or remove affected furniture, drywall, flooring, and other surfaces as needed.
Step 7: Ask Questions and Stay Informed
You have the right to know what’s happening in your home.
When working with any biohazard company, don’t hesitate to ask:
- What steps are being taken?
- What areas were affected?
- What materials were removed?
- Is it safe to return?
- Will there be follow-up testing?
A reputable company like Biohazard Busters will always answer your questions and keep you informed every step of the way.
Step 8: Mental and Emotional Health Matters
Biohazard incidents can be emotionally traumatic, especially if they involve:
- Crime scenes
- Suicides or unattended deaths
- Serious accidents
It’s okay to seek help. Talk to a counselor or therapist if you’re struggling. Take time to heal. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Step 9: Prevent Future Biohazard Incidents
Once your home is clean and safe, take steps to prevent future hazards:
- Install backflow valves to stop sewage backups
- Use pest control services to prevent infestations
- Fix leaks and clean gutters to stop mold growth
- Keep emergency numbers ready in case of accidents
Need advice? Ask our technicians—we’re happy to help you make your home safer.
Common Biohazard Incidents in Homes
Here are some situations that may require professional help:
Incident TypeRisk Factor
Blood or trauma scene Bloodborne pathogens, emotional trauma
Animal infestation or death Parasites, bacteria, and odors
Sewage backup Bacteria, viruses, toxic gases
Hoarding cleanup Mold, bacteria, pest infestations
Water damage Mold, structural rot
Drug paraphernalia cleanup HIV, Hepatitis from needles
Why Fast Response Matters
Time is critical when dealing with biohazards. Delaying cleanup can:
- Spread disease
- Increase structural damage
- Void insurance coverage
- Cause lingering smells and health risks
Call Biohazard Busters right away to protect your home and your health.
Final Thoughts: Safety First, Always
Experiencing a biohazard incident at home can be overwhelming. But you’re not alone.
Biohazard Busters is here to help—24/7. We respond quickly, work with compassion, and make your home safe again. Our goal is to remove the danger, stress, and uncertainty so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
If you ever find yourself facing a biohazard emergency, remember these 3 key things:
- Stay safe and call professionals immediately
- Avoid DIY cleanup
- Let certified experts restore your space completely