What is Biohazard Cleanup? Does it Require Certification?

The job of a biohazard cleaner is to completely clean, sanitize, and deodorize the site where a violent crime, suicide, or traumatic accident has occurred. Biohazard cleanup can be challenging work that requires technicians to handle potentially hazardous materials such as blood and body fluids, and proper handling of the crime or trauma scene is crucial to the safety of everyone involved.

Biohazard Cleanup Certification FAQ

Are you interested in pursuing a career in biohazard cleaning? If so, you likely have questions about the process.

What certifications are required for biohazard cleanup? Although there is no certification required to become a biohazard cleaner, OSHA requires any employee that has the potential of being exposed to bloodborne pathogens to complete training in bloodborne pathogens personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes individuals working in a wide range of industries, including law enforcement, health care, and bioremediation.

Many biohazard cleanup companies are happy to offer on-the-job training in bioremediation best practices and safety compliance for all employees. According to The Houston Chronicle, “Learning OSHA’s on-the-job safety methods when handling biohazardous waste and working in hazardous areas is strongly advised because it reduces the risk of accidents, potential lawsuits, and can lower a business’ insurance costs.”

Do biohazard cleanup regulations vary by state? Currently, only Florida and California require biohazard cleanup companies to obtain permits before handling blood, body fluids, body parts, and other potentially hazardous materials. More commonly, state departments of health put more of an emphasis on the level of safety of the vehicle used to transport the medical waste than on the actual cleanup.

Who can work in biohazard cleanup? Because there is no specific education requirements, certifications, or work experience required to work in biohazard cleanup, it is often believed that anyone can work in biohazard cleanup. The fact is, biohazard cleanup is not for everyone.

Biohazard cleanup can be a stressful, demanding profession that requires you to work long hours and encounter a wide range of tragic circumstances. If you think biohazard cleanup is the same as a standard cleaning company or janitorial service, or if you imagine biohazard cleaning to be similar to your favorite episode of CSI, you will quickly find that neither is true.

The good news is that a career in biohazard cleaning can be incredibly rewarding, as you take some of a family’s burden away and offer them compassion and respect when they need it most. More than anything, biohazard cleanup helps families heal.

Aftermath is a nationwide industry leader in biohazard cleaning. “Our vision is to remain the trusted and premier market leader in the biohazard remediation industry by delivering our promise of world-class customer service and safety, continuing to be innovative in our biohazard remediation practices and procedures, and expanding our nationwide footprint.”

With dozens of offices nationwide, Aftermath is always looking to hire good people as biohazard cleaners. Search our available openings.

Testimonials

"Exemplary Communication, Care, Attention to detail. This team deployed quickly to a biohazard situation, provided excellent advice and counsel, performed their work with integrity, and were instrumental when helping us with the insurance claim. A+++"

Randy N. - October 11, 2022

"From my initial contact with Jeanine to the final walk through with Jason, Tristan, Marquel and Fritz Aftermath services has been tremendously upfront, kind and compassionate after the death of my sister. During such a difficult time I never would have thought that I would walk away with five new friends. I am forever grateful."

Megan M. - October 10, 2022

"Aftermath Services Manager Christopher and his Assistant Manager Trainee Gabriel took care of my tenants (who was family) apartment swiftly. It was disgusting in there. Will be going back to this company if a situation arises like this in the future. Drive home safe guys and thank you for your hard work."

John I. - October 12, 2022

"I can not thank Cecily and Fernando enough for all the hard work and dedication they exerted to resolve our family crisis. Thank you both very much. You truly care about the families that you serve and it shows. "

Joseph T. - September 19, 2022

"Lacey and her team are amazing. We never experienced anything like this they walked us through process explained everything upfront even cost and went above and beyond. They were professional, compassionate and informative from minute they showed up even on a holiday. Sorry to say this hope I never need their services again but if we did Aftermath will be our 1st call. Thank you so much."

Patti B. - September 12, 2022

"The Pasadena Aftermath team did an outstanding job. Not only are they a remarkable team, they are also exceptional individuals. Over the course of the week that they were here, we got to know and trust them. They handled this unthinkable situation with grace, compassion, and the utmost respect for the victims. Words will never be able to truly capture the appreciation we have for them. When our world felt like it was hit with a tsunami, your team threw us a life preserver and told us that we will be okay again.The world needs more “Kevins”, “Jamies”, and “Hassens”, who will help lift the burden off of strangers who are facing their darkest days."

Ashlyn B. - September 5, 2022

"Sterling and Aurelia did much more than clean the scene. They were patient, kind, and very compassionate. They took good care of the property as if it was there own. Sterling and Aurelia communicated with us every step of the way. Their presence alone did much to contribute to the healing process. On top of all that, they did a fantastic job cleaning the house. To be honest, we hated to see them leave. Our family thank them both to the highest degree!!"

Tim F. - August 22, 2022