Trauma and Surface Cleaning Terms

Traumatic events can be mentally straining, but following an occurrence, a third-party company should come in to remediate the incident. Similar to surface cleaning, each of these involves a similar process to disinfect and sanitize the area from all hazards.

While trauma remediation focuses on a recent traumatic event clean-up, surface cleaning is when you thoroughly clean the area for pathogens that make people sick. However, both can be confusing topics to approach with all the terminology. Below are some terms from our trauma and surface cleaning experts with United Water Restoration Group. 

Animal Remains or Waste

These are carcass remains from dead animals and their waste. Our trauma experts can also remove any unwanted animal remains to prevent any diseases from spreading.

Antibacterial

A substance used to prevent the spread of bacteria while also killing any it comes into contact with.

Antimicrobial

An agent used to combat microorganisms. They combat well against molds, bacteria, and other single-celled harmful bacteria.

Biohazard

Biological waste or agents, such as a virus or condition that poses a threat to humans. They should not be taken lightly, as severe cases can cause health issues or death to humans if exposure occurs. 

Biohazard Remediation

Cleanup and disinfection of any biohazard situation. These situations include commercial, industrial and residential accidents, chemical spills, contamination, and hoarding events. 

Biological Waste

Materials that have been contaminated by or contain hazardous material.

Blood Removal

The process of removing blood marks and stains from the surrounding area. The use of chemicals and reactive agents are applied to destroy any harmful pathogens and fully clear the area from any markings. It is a part of the trauma remediation process.

Crime Scene Cleanup

Crime scene cleanup is the process of cleaning up a key location where a crime of some nature has unfolded. 

Decontamination

The removal of hazardous substances from an area, object, or person to prevent any potential health effects.

Disinfectant

A disinfectant is a chemical mixture used to destroy bacteria. These strong chemicals are regulated by OSHA and CDC standards and approved by the EPA for use in various situations.

Hazardous Materials Response (HAZMAT)

A group of trained professionals with the skills to handle and control hazardous substances

Hoarder Scene Cleanup

When a professional team goes onsite to thoroughly clean and sanitize the hazardous hoarder mess. These professionals will assist in cleaning and disposing of potentially harmful items or extreme clutter.

Homicide Cleanup

A homicide cleanup is the process of cleaning up a crime scene where a homicide was involved. This process is done AFTER police have conducted their investigation and all evidence has been gathered. 

Pathogens

Bacteria or microorganisms that can cause disease. A pathogen may also refer to an infectious agent or may simply refer to bacteria. 

P.P.E.

Personal Protective Equipment is gear regulated by OSHA on personal safety when performing certain tasks. These items include wearing an approved, full-body suit, goggles, mask, etc.

Sanitization

The process of lowering the number of germs present in a safe area. The safe level depends on the public standards and the location being sanitized.

Suicide Cleanup

Cleaning up after a suicide, fully sanitizing, and restoring the area to new.

Surface Cleaning

Surface cleaning is a professional service where a company will go to commercial or residential property to remove pathogens from the location. 

Touchpoints

A point of interaction where people continuously touch the same spot. Such as a doorknob or a faucet handle. These are important to clean often, as they are commonly touched items. 

Trauma

A disturbing or distressing event.

Unattended Decomposition

Unattended decomposition is when a person has died and the body begins to naturally decay. Each state of decomposition possesses a different way to clean up the body.

Finding the Right Help

After any traumatic event, you may be wondering about what happens next. After the police have left and the scene has been cleared, you should contact professionals to safely assist you in returning your property back to a state of normalcy. 

With the terminology above, you can better understand the difference and what to look for if anything ever goes astray. Remember, United Water Restoration Group is here for you no matter the cause. We are available 24/7, you can contact us for assistance at (800) 430-5838.

Check out our other blogs on water/fire restoration and mold remediation terminology!

We provide services in Ormond Beach, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach,  Orlando, Tampa, Melbourne, and many other locations around Florida!