5 Steps to Protect Your Property and Loved Ones
Most people never expect to deal with a biohazard emergency—but when it happens, fast, informed action is critical. Whether it’s an unattended death, a traumatic incident, rodent infestation, or sewage backup, knowing what to do can protect your health, your home, and your peace of mind.
At Bio-One of Orange, we respond to these situations every day. Here's what every property owner, manager, or concerned family member should know.
1. Know What Counts as a Biohazard Emergency
Biohazard emergencies go beyond just “messy” situations. These are scenarios where blood, bodily fluids, feces, urine, mold, or infectious materials are present. Common examples include:
- Unattended deaths
- Crime or trauma scenes
- Hoarding environments
- Rodent droppings
- Sewage overflows
- Flood-contaminated structures
Learn more from the EPA’s guide on household hazardous waste to better understand contamination sources.
2. Prioritize Safety—Keep Everyone Clear of the Area
If you encounter a possible biohazard, your first step is to prevent exposure. Do not attempt to clean or remove any materials yourself. Without proper protective gear (PPE), you risk serious health consequences including bacterial infections, viruses, and long-term respiratory issues.
Until professional cleanup arrives:
- Close off the affected area
- Avoid touching any contaminated surfaces
- Keep pets and other family members away
For more on safety standards, check the OSHA HAZWOPER PPE requirements.
3. Don’t Use Household Cleaners—They’re Not Enough
Standard cleaning sprays and bleaches may mask odors temporarily but won’t eliminate harmful pathogens. In some cases, improper cleaning can actually worsen the contamination by spreading particles through the air.
Professionals like Bio-One of Orange use hospital-grade disinfectants, HEPA filtration, and containment protocols to fully sanitize affected areas.
4. Document the Scene if Safe to Do So
For landlords, property managers, or homeowners with insurance coverage, it's helpful to take a few photos or notes from a safe distance (without disturbing anything). This can be important for insurance claims, tenant reports, or legal documentation.
Let our team know what you’ve observed so we can plan the most effective cleanup strategy.
For health and safety protocol reference, see the CDC's infection control guidelines.
5. Call a Certified Biohazard Cleanup Team Immediately
The most important step? Call the professionals right away. Time is critical. The longer biohazard materials remain, the more extensive the damage—and the health risk.
At Bio-One of Orange, we’re available 24/7 to respond to emergencies. We serve Orange County and surrounding communities, and our technicians are trained in OSHA and EPA-compliant cleanup procedures.
Be Prepared Before You Need Us
If you manage properties, oversee public spaces, or care for vulnerable loved ones, it’s smart to plan ahead. Save our number—714-397-8375—so you have a trusted biohazard remediation partner ready to respond.
For more on how we help in times of crisis, check out our recent post:
➡️ 3 Ways to Convince a Relative to Seek Help for Hoarding Cleanup
