The short answer
Blood and Bodily Fluids
Any surface that has come into contact with blood, vomit, urine, or other bodily fluids needs biohazard cleanup. These fluids can carry pathogens like hepatitis or HIV, so you should not attempt to clean them with household products. Even small spills can leave behind invisible contamination that requires professional-grade disinfection.
In a home, this often happens after an accident, injury, or unattended death. The affected area may include flooring, walls, or furniture. The pros have the equipment and training to safely remove and dispose of contaminated materials, reducing your risk of exposure.
- Blood spills from an injury or accident
- Vomit or diarrhea from illness
- Urine or feces from pets or humans
- Unattended death or decomposition fluids
Sewage and Wastewater
Sewage backups are a clear biohazard. Raw sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause serious illness. If a toilet overflows or a sewer line backs up into your home, the affected areas are contaminated and need professional cleanup, not just a mop and bleach.
The pros will remove contaminated materials, disinfect the space, and handle waste disposal properly. They also check for hidden moisture that can lead to mold growth. Keep your plumbing system maintained to reduce the risk of backups, but if one happens, act quickly to protect your health.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Toilet overflow with sewage
- Backed-up sewer line
- Flooding from a septic system
- Contaminated floodwater entering the home
Hazardous Chemicals
Chemical spills, such as pesticides, solvents, or cleaning agents, also require biohazard cleanup. These substances can be toxic if inhaled or touched, and some are flammable. You should not try to clean up large or unknown chemical spills yourself, as you may not know the proper safety precautions.
The pros can identify the type of chemical, use appropriate protective gear, and dispose of it according to regulations. They also ventilate the area to remove fumes. If you feel unwell after a chemical exposure, see a doctor immediately.
- Pesticide or herbicide spill
- Solvent or paint thinner spill
- Unknown chemical container leak
- Mercury from a broken thermometer
Floodwater and Storm Damage
Floodwater is often contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and debris, especially in urban areas. Even if the water looks clean, it can carry harmful bacteria. After a flood, anything the water touched may be a biohazard, including drywall, insulation, and personal items.
The pros will assess the extent of contamination, remove unsalvageable materials, and sanitize the rest. They also dry the area thoroughly to prevent mold. Spring thunderstorms can bring flash flooding, so be prepared to act fast if water enters your home.
- Flooded crawl space with standing water
- Water damage from a burst pipe
- Storm surge or river flooding
- Sewage mixed with floodwater
When to Call for Help
You should call the pros if you see blood, sewage, or chemical contamination in your home. Do not wait, as the risk of illness increases with time. The pros will handle the cleanup safely, but you should avoid the affected area until the work begins.
Before they start, the pros will explain the process and what you can expect. They may need to remove flooring, drywall, or other materials. After cleanup, they will disinfect and deodorize the space. The cost depends on the extent of the damage and the type of biohazard, so ask for details before work begins.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up biohazards myself?
You should not attempt to clean up blood, sewage, or chemical spills yourself. These materials can carry diseases or be toxic. Professional cleanup requires special equipment and training to ensure safety. If you are exposed, see a doctor if you feel unwell.
What should I do after a sewage backup?
Leave the area immediately and avoid touching anything. Turn off the water supply if possible, but do not enter standing sewage. Call the pros to assess and clean the contamination. They will also check for mold damage.
Does my insurance cover biohazard cleanup?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy or contact your insurance company to ask about biohazard cleanup coverage. Some policies include it under water damage or sewage backup, but you need to confirm the details.