Crime and Trauma Scene Decontamination (CTS Decon) 

No one experiencing the tragic loss of a family member should be forced to clean up after his or her remains. The grief can make this task overwhelming. The horrific sight can cause nightmares for years to come and crowd out the pleasant memories of the loved one.

Beyond the emotional pain and stress, there are serious safety and health issues connected with cleaning up after a dead body.  Government regulations state “… all body fluids shall be considered potentially infectious materials” (CFR 1910.1030).The immediate environment must be decontaminated.

After a suicide, murder, or unattended/undiscovered death, it is best that decontamination occur quickly. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) must be worn because of potential infection from HIV, hepatitis, Ebola Virus, hepatitis, and a host of other deadly diseases. Equipment often includes a disposable body suit, plastic or rubber boots, an eye shield, gloves, and respirator with HEPA filters.

Cleaning solutions must be powerful enough to remove very tenacious biological material.  A hospital grade disinfectant is used. Some objects are impossible to clean and require actual demolition, such as removing carpet or sheetrock.

Other Crime Scene Restoration 

Tear gas is by design a potent irritant, so everything must be decontaminated--walls, floors, furniture, clothing, dishes, etc. Long after the gas has dispersed, the irritant remains on every surface it contacted. Technicians must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); especially eye protection. Disposable garments including a Tyvek® suit, boots and glove protect the restorer and his or her clothing.

Finger print powder is electrostatic. It will permanently adhere to upholstery and carpet fibers if not correctly cleaned.

Call the professionals that insurance companies and law enforcement agencies trust. Call Althouse Cleaning.         

(915) 581-4347 or (575) 647-2273

or follow this link to email us

Althouse Cleaning is a member of the Texas Victims Services Association