Bioremediation is one of the potent tools used to restore environments impacted by contamination. Even though it is a term that has recently been expanded to cover more ground, traditionally, it refers to techniques that decontaminate soil, water, and air. It now also covers biohazard removal and crime scene cleanup services. Even though all of these fields fall under the same term, they are quite different in terms of their methodology and goals.
Types of Bioremediation: A Detailed Overview
Classic bioremediation technologies have been an integral component in combating environmental hazards such as soil contamination and oil spills in our oceans. Let us examine the three primary types of bioremediation that have been a core of environmental restorations:
- Microbial bioremediation: A system that utilizes microorganisms to ingest the contaminants and, in turn, convert them into less harmful products as part of their usual metabolic activities.
- Phytoremediation: This involves using plants that uptakes, binds, or detoxifies pollutants like pesticides, hydrocarbons, metals, and solvents. Plants may store or transform these substances, thus cleaning up the area.
- Mycoremediation: This is a case where fungi are used, whereby their digestive enzymes can break down a wide variety of inorganic pollutants, including pesticides, hydrocarbons, and heavy metals.
These techniques are imperative for environmental pollutants, and many companies focus on these services. But a line must be drawn between these long-established services and the more recent use of bioremediation as it refers to crime scene cleanup.
Bioremediation in Crime Scene Cleanup
When discussing bioremediation with respect to crime scene cleanup, we refer to biological material remediation. Here’s what it involves:
- Bio: Biological materials; e.g., blood, body fluids, tissue.
- Decontamination: Thorough, safe removal of such materials from a site to return it to a safe, clean condition.
The purpose of crime scene cleanup is to remove potential biohazards, specifically bloodborne pathogens and communicable diseases. Bioremediation associated with crime scene cleanup often entails the use of enzyme cleaners, which are efficacious and ecologically friendly in contrast to ordinary cleaning, which uses such harsh chemicals as bleach or ammonia.
How Does Crime Scene Cleanup Work?
The work of crime scene cleaners usually starts after the law enforcement investigators have completed their job at the scene. Their work includes:
- Cleaning and Disinfection: Safe removal of the last vestiges of blood, fluids, and other biohazards.
- Deodorization: Make sure there will literally be no smell left behind.
- Sanitization: The scene will be sanitized to the highest possible standards (often above hospital-grade) with adenosine triphosphate testing to confirm the absence of organic material.
Worth noting is the fact that this branch of bioremediation remains rather specialized and vastly different from environmental remediation, focused on human health and safety at sites where some event has occurred that is traumatic in nature.
Bioremediation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is bioremediation?
Bioremediation is a process whereby natural organisms break down hazardous substances into less or non-toxic substances. It applies to both environmental cleanups and crime scene cleanup.
2. How does bioremediation differ between environmental cleanup versus crime-scene cleanup?
While environmental bioremediation deals with cleaning up pollutants in soil, water, and air, bioremediation as it is applied to crime scene cleanup is the safe removal of biohazards such as blood and body fluids from trauma sites.
3. What happens during a crime scene cleanup?
After the investigative law enforcers have done their job, biohazards are removed, the area sanitized, and the site returned to livable and safe condition.
4. Are there eco-friendly methods used in crime scene cleanup?
Yes, most of the crime scene cleanup companies use enzyme-based cleaners which are efficient in sanitizing without the harsh effects the detergents like bleach have on the environment.
5. Is crime scene cleanup covered by insurance?
In most cases, homeowners or insurance will cover crime scene cleanup. It’s always best to call your insurance provider to confirm.
Caring for San Antonio, Texas
Biotech’s Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning proudly serves all of San Antonio—the city rich in history and culture. From the historic Alamo to strolling along the scenic River Walk or any of the other great neighborhoods, we are here for our neighbors, remaining proud to answer your call with compassion and professionalism in times of need. We know how hard it can be to cope with the aftereffects of a traumatic event and the necessary aspect of a community bouncing back to safety and peace of mind.
Also Read: Understanding Biohazards: Types And Dangers
