Biohazard cleanup, especially after an unattended death, is a delicate balance of science, safety, and sensitivity. For property managers, the temptation to save time or money by handling parts of the job themselves is understandable—budgets are tight, and tenants need quick resolutions. But as we’ve seen time and again, cutting corners doesn’t just risk inefficiency; it can expose everyone involved to serious health hazards, legal liabilities, and unexpected costs. One real-world example illustrates this perfectly, and it underscores why following industry standards from start to finish is non-negotiable.
Consider a recent case where a property manager discovered an unattended death in a rental unit. Eager to get the space back on the market, they decided to split the work: hire professionals for the biohazard aspects, but remove the furniture and carpet themselves first. On paper, it seemed cost-effective—why pay for full removal when the team could focus on the “essentials”?
But the execution went backward. By the time our crew arrived, the unit was stripped bare except for the chair where the deceased was found and a small section of surrounding carpet. The manager had disturbed the scene, potentially releasing airborne contaminants like bacteria from dried fluids into the air and HVAC system.
This approach backfired dramatically. Industry standards, as outlined by organizations like the IICRC and OSHA, emphasize a specific sequence to minimize risks. Professionals start with a thorough assessment to identify all contaminated areas, then contain the space to prevent cross-contamination. Next comes the removal of biohazardous materials—bodily fluids, tissues, and affected items—followed by treatments like ozone or fogging to neutralize lingering airborne pathogens and odors. Only after that should non-hazardous items be handled or removed, ensuring nothing spreads bacteria or toxins further.
In this case, the premature disturbance likely causes aerosolized particles, making the air unsafe and complicating our work. We had to extend the job to include additional air scrubbing and testing, turning a straightforward remediation into a more extensive—and expensive—process.
The fallout extended beyond the site. The manager later faced complaints from new tenants about faint odors and minor health issues, like headaches or irritation, which could have been prevented with proper sequencing. Worse, if an inspector had flagged the incomplete protocol, it might have led to fines or delays in re-renting. We’ve encountered similar scenarios where clients skip steps like full ozone treatment, insisting it’s “unnecessary,” only to call back weeks later when persistent smells or mold emerge—exactly as advised against. These shortcuts not only compromise safety but also erode trust, leaving property owners scrambling to fix avoidable problems.
For property managers and homeowners alike, the lesson is clear: biohazard cleanup isn’t a place for DIY shortcuts. Engage certified experts who adhere to established protocols from the outset. They’ll guide you through the process, explain why each step matters, and often save money in the long run by preventing callbacks or claims. Ask upfront about their sequence of operations and insist on documentation, like post-cleanup testing reports, to verify compliance.
At Pacific BioResponse Services we follow IICRC and OSHA guidelines meticulously in every job, providing 24/7 emergency response and full-sequence remediation to ensure safe, lasting results.
When a biohazard strikes, prioritize expertise over expediency. The right approach protects your property, your health, and your peace of mind—without the costly surprises. Contact us at Pacific BioResponse Services for professional biohazard cleanup that gets it right the first time!