FEATURE
CLEAN OF THE CRIME
For most people, crime and trauma
scenes are only ever seen on TV. However, for the experts at Rentokil Specialist
Hygiene – they are simply part of their daily routine, explains Paul Casson, Technical Field Manager.
Trauma site consultants are responsible for attending to the immediate aftermath of an accident or crime to assess the clean-up that is required. Specialist cleaning technicians sometimes work in highly unsettling and often hazardous situations; ranging from the aftermath of a suicide or road traffic accident, to the scene of a murder.
It is a common misconception that the emergency services will organise the clean-up operation in the event of a traumatic incident. In fact, it is predominantly the responsibility of the property or land owner to ensure the contaminated area is returned to its original state. In these upsetting scenarios, knowing that a professional cleaning service is available to co-ordinate the clean-up operation can provide some small comfort.
LIFE CLEANING UP TRAUMA SCENES While no specific qualification is required to join this challenging industry, extensive training is required to ensure all workers in this role can safely handle the unique challenges that unsettling situations can pose as well as being able to cope with the emotional strain of the job.
One of the trickiest aspects of being a trauma scene technician is maintaining a high degree of professionalism and humanity. For example, when attending to a suicide scene it is vital to detach emotionally from the job, but at the same time it is crucially important to uphold a level of empathy for those suffering loss, who may be on site.
Given that walking into highly sensitive scenarios is part of the every-day job description, technicians quickly come to learn the necessity of this balancing act. It is vital to have a deep understanding of the challenges that cleaning technicians may face while working on the frontline of our business, and to offer counselling 24-7 and support to colleagues.
Although the role has its unique challenges – and is often considered a ‘grimy’ job - specialist cleaning technicians typically find their role incredibly rewarding. Many specialist cleaners find real satisfaction in returning a potentially hazardous site back to a safe environment.
THE RISKS OF CLEANING TRAUMA SCENES
YOURSELF Whatever the circumstances, you should never attempt this specialist clean-up yourself. Strict guidelines and
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“TRAUMA SITES CAN FACILITATE MICROBIAL ACTIVITY, AND
THEREFORE OFTEN REQUIRE LARGE- SCALE DISINFECTION.”
legislation are in place surrounding the cleaning of trauma scenes, and the disposal of potentially hazardous waste. Trauma sites can facilitate microbial activity, and therefore often require large-scale disinfection, in addition to spot-cleaning of the affected area to prevent the spread of disease or infection.
Specialist hygiene operations require technicians with the right practical skills to ensure the safe cleaning of a trauma site. There are also very clear personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, to help protect the health and safety of technicians. On top of that, Rentokil Specialist Hygiene technicians receive accredited training so they are up to date with the most effective cleaning practices, processes and safety standards.
IT’S A SPECIALIST OPERATION Aside from PPE, specialist equipment is required to mitigate the risk of infection and swiftly return the area back to its original state. Technicians need access to the best technology for the job, including highly effective disinfection processes such as Ultra Low Volume (ULV) fogging. ULV fogging produces micro-droplets of disinfectant that remain in the air for around 10 minutes after application.
Dispersing these micro-droplets into the air means the solution can reach areas that might not otherwise be covered by conventional cleaning methods. Using these kinds of advanced disinfection techniques ensures that the affected area can be safely restored. Studies have shown that fogging reduces the number of pathogens present when compared to manual surface cleaning alone. This type of fogging service can also include CleanScent technology which ensures that the area smells as clean as it looks. There are a range of fragrances on offer, including cherry blossom and fresh citrus scents, which effectively eliminate any foul odours.
www.rentokil-hygiene.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com
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