Understanding the Steps of a Crime Scene Cleanup

When tragedy strikes, few people realize what happens after law enforcement and emergency personnel leave the scene for a Crime Scene Cleanup. Once the investigation is complete, the responsibility of cleanup often falls on the property owner or family. This is where professional biohazard cleanup teams like Bio-One of Orange step in—providing not only technical expertise but also compassion during some of life’s most difficult moments.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of a crime scene cleanup, from the first phone call to final clearance.

1. The Initial Call after a Crime Scene

Every cleanup begins with a call for help. Whether from law enforcement, a property manager, or a grieving family, our 24/7 team is ready to respond. During this first contact, we:

• Gather basic details (location, type of incident, level of contamination).
• Explain what the process will look like.
• Dispatch trained technicians immediately.

Learn more about our 24/7 emergency response services.

2. Site Assessment of a Crime Scene & Safety Preparation

When our technicians arrive, the first step is a thorough site assessment. Safety is always our top priority:

• We identify affected areas (blood, bodily fluids, or other biohazards).
• Establish containment zones to prevent cross-contamination.
• Don full PPE (personal protective equipment) including respirators, gloves, and suits.

This ensures the scene is secure and safe for both our team and the property.
For more on workplace safety, see OSHA’s guide to bloodborne pathogens.

3. Biohazard Removal

Next comes the most delicate and essential part: removing biohazardous materials. Depending on the situation, this may involve:

• Cleaning blood and bodily fluids from surfaces.
• Removing porous materials like carpet, flooring, or drywall that cannot be fully disinfected.
• Safely packaging and transporting biohazard waste for disposal in compliance with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) regulations.

At Bio-One of Orange, our technicians follow strict biohazard remediation protocols to protect health and safety.

4. Cleaning & Disinfection

Once contaminated materials are removed, we use hospital-grade disinfectants and specialized equipment to eliminate pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis, and bacteria. This includes:

• Fogging and spraying disinfectant throughout the space.
• Thorough scrubbing of walls, floors, and fixtures.
• Neutralizing odors that may linger after the incident.

According to the EPA’s registered antimicrobial products list, not all cleaning agents are effective against dangerous pathogens—our team uses only approved solutions.

5. Final Clearance & Compassionate Support

The final stage is about restoring peace of mind. After a full inspection, we provide:

• Clearance that the property is free from biohazards.
• Documentation for insurance or property management records.
• Emotional support and guidance on next steps.

Read more about our compassionate approach to trauma and death cleanup.

Why Professional Cleanup Matters

Attempting to clean a crime scene without training and protective gear can be extremely dangerous. Biohazards can carry infectious diseases, and improper cleanup may put future occupants at risk. By calling Bio-One of Orange, families ensure the scene is handled discreetly, respectfully, and safely.

If you or someone you know needs professional biohazard cleanup in Orange County, Bio-One of Orange is here 24/7.
Call us anytime at 714-397-8375 or visit biooneorange.com for immediate assistance.