Unattended Death Cleanup: Why Professional Help is Essential

Discovering an unattended death is a distressing and overwhelming experience. Beyond the emotional toll, there are serious health risks and legal responsibilities to consider. Understanding the necessary steps and why professional biohazard cleanup is essential can help make a tragic situation more manageable.

Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Call 911 – Authorities must be notified to confirm the cause of death and conduct any necessary investigations.
  2. Avoid the Area – Decomposition begins quickly, leading to biohazards such as bloodborne pathogens and airborne bacteria.
  3. Contact a Professional Cleanup Service – Once law enforcement and medical personnel have completed their procedures, a specialized biohazard remediation company like MSI should be called to handle the cleanup safely and effectively.

Health & Safety Risks of an Unattended Death

When a person passes away and remains undiscovered for an extended period, the body undergoes natural decomposition, leading to:

  • The release of hazardous bodily fluids
  • Strong odors that can permeate walls, floors, and furniture
  • Biohazards like bacteria, viruses, and potential bloodborne pathogens
  • Structural damage from bodily fluids seeping into flooring and substructures

Attempting to clean these materials without professional-grade equipment and specialized training puts individuals at serious risk of exposure to harmful contaminants.

Why DIY Cleanup is Dangerous

Many assume that household cleaners or personal protective equipment (PPE) are sufficient for biohazard cleanup, but this is far from the truth. Standard cleaning solutions do not eliminate hazardous pathogens, and improper handling of affected materials can lead to cross-contamination. Additionally, improper disposal of biohazardous waste may violate state and federal regulations, leading to legal consequences.

The Professional Cleanup Process

At MSI, we follow a meticulous process to ensure complete decontamination:

  • Assessment & Containment – We evaluate the affected area and establish barriers to prevent contamination spread.
  • Removal of Biohazards – All blood, bodily fluids, and contaminated materials are safely removed and disposed of per OSHA and EPA guidelines.
  • Deep Cleaning & Disinfection – We use hospital-grade disinfectants and specialized techniques to eliminate all pathogens.
  • Odor Neutralization – Advanced deodorization methods ensure the space is free of lingering odors.
  • Restoration Recommendations – If structural damage has occurred, we provide guidance on necessary repairs.

How MSI Can Help

MSI understands that dealing with an unattended death is a traumatic event. Our team is trained in compassionate, discreet, and professional biohazard remediation. We handle every step of the cleanup process with care, ensuring your property is restored to a safe and sanitary condition.

If you or someone you know is facing an unattended death situation, contact MSI for professional and respectful assistance. Our priority is your safety and peace of mind.