Crime Scene Cleanup: Why It’s Not a DIY Job

Posted on by msi-admin

When people hear the term “crime scene cleanup,” they often imagine something out of a TV show—neatly taped-off areas and professionals in hazmat suits working behind the scenes. The truth is far more complex, and far more critical to public health and safety.

At MSI, we’ve handled countless biohazard cleanup situations—from unattended deaths to trauma scenes—and we can tell you firsthand: this is not a job for amateurs or general cleaners.

What Falls Under Crime Scene and Biohazard Cleanup?

This specialized service includes:

  • Unattended deaths (including decomposition)
  • Homicides and suicides
  • Accidental injuries or industrial accidents
  • Drug lab decontamination
  • Blood and bodily fluid cleanup
  • Vehicle trauma scenes
  • Infectious disease exposure (such as COVID-19 or MRSA)

Each of these scenarios poses serious risks to health and requires legally compliant disposal of biohazardous waste.

Why You Should Never Attempt This Yourself

Here’s what most people don’t realize until it’s too late:

  • Exposure to bloodborne pathogens like HIV, Hepatitis B/C, and bacteria is a real and present danger.
  • Improper cleanup can lead to lingering odors, stains, or contamination, putting future occupants at risk.
  • Biohazard waste cannot be thrown in the trash. It must be packaged, labeled, and transported according to federal and state regulations.
  • Insurance can often cover the cleanup, but only if performed by a certified professional.

What Professional Cleanup Really Involves

A certified biohazard team follows strict protocols to ensure the property is truly safe:

  • Full PPE (including respirators, face shields, and suits)
  • ATP surface testing to confirm cleanliness
  • Use of hospital-grade disinfectants
  • Removal and safe disposal of contaminated materials
  • Deodorization and air purification
  • Documentation for insurance and legal purposes

This work is not just technical—it’s emotional. Families going through a traumatic event should never be left to clean up the aftermath themselves.

Final Thoughts

If you or someone you know is dealing with a crime scene or biohazard situation, don’t make the mistake of calling a janitor or doing it yourself. This isn’t cleanup—it’s remediation.

MSI is certified in trauma and biohazard restoration and approaches every job with discretion, professionalism, and compassion. When lives are disrupted, we restore peace of mind—safely and legally.

How to Handle Your Property Following a Crime or Trauma Scene Investigation

Posted on by msi-admin

The aftermath of a crime or trauma on your property can be overwhelming, both emotionally and logistically. As you navigate this difficult time, it’s crucial to understand the steps involved in restoring your space to safety. This guide provides essential advice on handling the aftermath responsibly and with care.

Understanding the Process

When a crime or traumatic event occurs on your property, it becomes a scene of investigation. Authorities may need to keep the area secured for some time, which can delay cleaning and restoration efforts. Knowing what to expect during these investigations can help you prepare for the next steps.

Immediate Steps to Take Post-Investigation

Once the police have cleared your property, your first step should be to secure the space to prevent further damage or intrusion. Contacting a professional crime scene cleanup team like MSI is crucial, as they are trained to handle biohazards and other risks safely. If staying in your home is unsafe, consider arranging temporary accommodations.

The Role of Professional Cleanup Services

Crime and trauma scenes can contain biohazards such as bloodborne pathogens, which pose health risks. Professional cleanup teams are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to clean and disinfect the area thoroughly, ensuring it is safe for you and your family to return.

Dealing with Emotional Impacts

The emotional impact of a crime or trauma scene can be profound. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Professional counseling, community support groups, or talking to loved ones can be vital during this time.

Insurance and Legal Considerations

Handling insurance claims might be necessary after such incidents. Document all damages and correspondence carefully. Some policies cover crime scene cleanup, so it’s important to understand the specifics of your coverage. Additionally, keep all records in case of future legal needs.

Conclusion

The importance of professional cleanup services and emotional support cannot be overstated in times of such distress. Ensuring that your property is safely and thoroughly restored is as crucial as taking care of your psychological health.

Call to Action

If you’re facing the challenge of restoring your property after a crime or trauma scene, contact MSI. Our team offers expert and compassionate service, ensuring your space is safely returned to a peaceful state.

Unattended Death Cleanup: Why Professional Help is Essential

Posted on by msi-admin

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.