Trauma cleanup
What Happens During a Professional Trauma Cleanup?
A step-by-step look at containment, removal, disinfection and review in a trauma cleanup.
Finding out that someone has died is painful. Learning that the person was not found for a period of time can bring additional distress, and the property may need specialized care. This article explains what the cleanup involves, in a way meant to be informative and not graphic.
What does "unattended death" mean?
It refers to a death where the person was alone and was not discovered right away. The length of time before discovery affects the condition of the property.
First steps
- Call 911 if you suspect a death. Authorities and the medical examiner or coroner handle the person's remains.
- Avoid entering the room if you can, and keep others out.
- Wait for authorities to release the property before arranging cleanup.
- Notify the landlord, property manager or insurer if relevant.
Why specialized cleanup is needed
After a death, body fluids can soak into flooring and subfloor, and odor can penetrate drywall, fabric and ventilation. These are biological hazards, and cleaning them requires protective equipment and methods ordinary cleaning cannot provide.
What providers typically do
Assess
They evaluate how far contamination and odor have spread.
Remove
Items that cannot be reliably decontaminated, such as mattresses and carpet, are removed and packaged for regulated disposal.
Clean and treat
Surfaces are cleaned and disinfected. Structural materials may be treated or sealed.
Deodorize
Odor is treated at the source using equipment such as air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators.
Handle belongings
Providers should ask what you want to keep and how to handle personal items with respect.
Who can arrange cleanup?
A family member, property owner, personal representative or landlord. If you are not sure who has authority, ask the provider, your insurer or an attorney.
Questions worth asking providers
- How will you handle personal belongings and sentimental items?
- How do you address odor in shared walls or ventilation?
- What documentation will you provide for insurance or the estate?
- How do you handle regulated waste?
Take care of yourself
If you are grieving, consider talking with friends, family, clergy or a counselor. For emotional distress, call or text 988.
To learn more, see our page on unattended death cleanup.
Sources and further reading
Please note. This article is general information, not medical, legal or safety advice. Youngstown Biohazard Cleanup is an independent referral service, and cleanup is performed by independent providers.
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