Recent Biohazard Posts

Hoarding- A Psychiatric Disorder

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

This hoarding home in Clarks Summit had a biohazard component and required a professional restoration company.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, "People with hoarding disorder excessively save items that others may view as worthless. They have persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions, leading to clutter that disrupts their ability to use their living or work spaces." SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the training and specialized equipment to address any size hoarding situations. A hoarding home can be compounded and become dangerous when a biohazard element is present. Many times animal feces or human waste are a component. In these incidences it is imperative that a professional cleaning company like SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge be called. We can clean the home and restore it to a safe and healthy living environment. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is proud to serve our local Lackawanna County communities.

Crime Scene Suicide and Biohazard Cleanups

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

When cleaning bio-hazardous situations full personal protective equipment (PPE) is a must.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is known for our cleanup and restoration of smoke, fire and water disasters. And we certainly do that and do it well. I often use the term "specialty cleaning" when describing what we do simply because we do more than just smoke, fire and water.
This week we received a telephone call from our local police department regarding a "specialty" cleaning project which they did not want to address. A person they arrested who was suspected of having some dangerous diseases, bled in the police car as well as a holding cell. Its situations just like this where companies like SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge can help. We have the trained workforce and specialized equipment to safely clean these potentially dangerous situations.
Crime scene, suicide and biohazard cleanups are just another facet of our cleaning capabilities. We continue to partner with local and state police departments as well as first responders in providing a service most don't want to or simply cant handle. 

If you can't clean it, we will!

Sewer Backups - A Common Occurenance

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Full personal protection equipment (PPE) should always be worn when dealing with a biohazard situation like a sewer backup.

Lackawanna County infrastructure is old. The sewer system fails which causes backups into homes and businesses. This unfortunately is a reality and occurs often. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the training and equipment required to safely mitigate, clean and repair sewage damaged basements.

Sewage water is classified as category 3 water which means there are potential health effects to it and thusly should always be cleaned by a professional cleaning company. If not done properly the secondary effects could be dangerous mold and health problems for the occupants.

Odor is another big issue wirth sewer backups and without the problem equipment could cause a serious disruption to your home or business. Cleanup is the first step but address the air quality is also a function of a proper remediation.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is a full service specialty cleaning company with the capability to remediate any size sewage backup.

Sewer Backup Cleaning

10/31/2017 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in this home in Scranton. Dirty water has the potential to cause health issues and should always be addressed by professionals.

Sewer backups within homes and businesses are unfortunately not uncommon. Whether it be a grinder pump, a clog or a drainage issue, they cause lots of damage. When you factor in personal contents these claims can be thousands of dollars. And we did not even mention the potential odor issues. Phew!

Northeastern Pa. with an older sewer system frequently has issues and SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the specialized training and equipment to safely mitigate and restore the affected properties.

Sewerage is classified as a category (3) three water, meaning it has the potential to cause health issues under the right conditions. Dirty water also has the potential to produce harmful mold if not cleaned up properly. Therefore it is recommended that a professional cleanup be utilized. Most times the issue is greater than just the cleaning of the water. Affected contents, walls and flooring must also be addressed. Full personal protective equipment should always be worn. Deodorization, disinfection and an antimicrobial application should also be utilized to ensure long-term safety.

Be cautious. Be safe. Sewerage is a dangerous substance and needs to be treated as such. Call the professionals for piece of mind.

Pigeon Guano Clean Up.

10/24/2017 (Permalink)

Pigeon guano is considered an environmental hazard due to the potential health risk associated with it.

This commercial property in Jenkins Twp, sat idle for a period time following a fire. Due to the inactivity it became a haven for pigeons. Like the old saying goes, "An idle property is the pigeons playground."

Now that the property is up for sale and a potential buyer was located, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge was employed to clean this property and ultimately to make it safe.

Pigeon guano is considered an environmental hazard due to the possible health consequences it brings. The more guano, the bigger the risk. Because of this fact, a professional cleaning company like SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge should be employed. With our specialized training and equipment we are able to return the environment to a safe status and allow a potential sale to move forward.

As a full-service restoration company, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is able to safely clean environmental hazards like pigeon guano in a safe way and thus return the living environment back to usable.

Biohazard Clean-Up Capabilities

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

technicians wearing full personal protective equipment when cleaning hazardous substances.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.

Please refer to our Biohazard Emergency Tips - Until Help Arrives Guideand follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (570) 235-1646

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

  • Sewage backups
  • Crime scene residues
  • Suicide/death accidents
  • Homicide cleanups
  • Blood cleanup
  • Accident cleanup
  • Hoarding scenes
  • Animal waste/remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Tear gas cleanup
  • Meth lab cleanup

Trauma Cleanup

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Suicide and death cleanups require specialized training and equipment to safely restore the property.

After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other bio-hazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

We recently completed a trauma cleanup for a senior living facility in Scranton, Pa. in which the fluids made the residence a health issue and professional cleanup was required. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge was able to safely and professionally clean the affected room to make it safe and inhabitable again. The team in full protective equipment removed the hazardous materials, disinfected the area and diminished the strong pungent odor.

As a professional cleaning company, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is tasked with many unpleasant but necessary jobs and having the required equipment and training is a requirement.

Should your home or business experience a crime scene or trauma situation and need a professional cleanup company, call us 24/7 at (570) 235-1646. This is just another example of why SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is Lackawanna County's premier specialty cleaning company. 

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

  • Sewage backups
  • Crime scene residues
  • Suicide/death accidents
  • Homicide cleanups
  • Blood cleanup
  • Accident cleanup
  • Hoarding scenes
  • Animal waste/remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Tear gas cleanup
  • Meth lab cleanup

Crime Scene Cleanup

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Biohazard job require personnel protective equipment to ensure safety when dealing with hazard substances.

After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Need Trauma or Crime Scene Cleanup? Call Today –(570) 235-1646

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Our first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve bloodborne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

  • Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
  • Tear gas and pepper spray residues
  • Fire extinguisher residue
  • Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Common Trauma and Crime Scene Scenarios

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, we can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.

Bloodborne Pathogens

We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Our trained Professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs

Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. Our technicians follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Hoarding and Biohazard

9/22/2017 (Permalink)

What this homeowner thought was a hoarding situation turned into a biohazard. It takes a company with the proper training and equipment to safely adr

Sometimes things become overwhelming and situations get unmanageable. When these times happen it's time to call SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge to get the professional help needed.

This current situation is of a homeowner in Throop that went to check on an elderly tenant and sadly found that she was not doing too well. After addressing her situation his next task was the house, but where to begin?

Many hoarding situations become a biohazard area and a non-trained person should not attempt to clean. At SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge we have the specialized training and certifications to safely and professionally address a hoarding and biohazard situations. We help make it "Like it never even happened."

So if you find yourself in an unmanageable and overwhelming situation call us. We are the Lackawanna County's leader in specialty cleaning and have the expertise, equipment and training to handle a hoarding situation like this example. Don't place yourself in danger. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge. We are "Always here to help".

Speciality Cleaning is Our Speciality

9/4/2017 (Permalink)

When the job is too dangerous, call us. We have the specialized training and equipment to handle any size disaster.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge does more than just smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration. We are a specialty cleaning company with the motto: "If you can't clean it....We will."

If a home or business is a product of a hoarding situation or the tenant has lost the ability to maintain it, call us at (570) 235-1646. Unfortunately, many of these situations turn into bio-hazard situation and become serious health issues. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the equipment and training to meet the demands for these types of jobs.

From hoarding, vandalism to crime scene and death cleanup we have the training and expertise to handle the situation.  If the job is too big or too dangerous call us and let a specialty cleaning company like SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge help make it "Like it never even happened." We service Lackawanna and Susquehanna counties 24/7/365. 

Eliminating Troublesome Odors

8/25/2017 (Permalink)

Utilizing a hydroxyl generator to treat an odor issue in the basement in the property in Scranton.

Detecting the source of the smell is the first remedy in eliminating any troubling odor situation. While you are able to certainly smell it, finding it is sometimes a more difficult task.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge Lackawanna County's premier specialty cleaning company will find the source of your odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate the odor from your home. Whether it be a dead animal in the wall, troubling animal excrement or a skunk in your basement we have the experience and specialized equipment to eliminate and/or neutralize the odor.

Experience matters. Our certified technicians can find and eliminate the source and then treat the lingering aftereffects of the odor. By employing the use of a fogging agent to pair with the odor molecules or a hydroxyl generator to literally zap the odor molecules we can return your living or working environment back to a safe and healthy space. 

If your or property is experiencing a bothersome odor issue, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge.

Stubborn Urine Odor Treatment

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

A Hydroxyl Generator is a specialized machine which uses ultraviolet rays to kill odor molecules.

Urine staining and the associated odor are a problem to remove. 

Once a urine spot is identified, the priority is to get to where the actual urine resides, typically below the surface on subflooring or in a carpet pad.

You have to remove the source. You have to get to where the bottom of the spot is. If you are trying to take care of a urine problem by sprinkling or spraying something on the top of the carpet, that would be very similar to having a cavity and going to the dentist and them putting a crown on the cavity.

In places where a carpet is glued down, prohibiting the custodial staff from getting to the pad, subfloor or to the underside of the carpet, the key is full saturation with cleaners that are bio enzymatic (i.e. containing bacteria).

The enzymes need some time and they need the temperature to be moderate; water can’t be super hot because it will actually kill the bacteria before it does its job. We can’t ever use a disinfecting-type product with it because the disinfectant is going to kill the bacteria. It indiscriminant when it kills.

Urine tends to spread below the surface of the carpet into an area two to three times the size of spot. As urine dries, it becomes an alkaline, attracting moisture. So, cleaning professionals can use a moisture meter to determine the size of the actual spot. 

“The moisture meter is a little stick with two little probes. It will let us know exactly how far the urine has traveled so we know what area to treat. When people walk on it, the urine will attract the soil from their shoes…so now you have a spot that is not just urine, but also oil, grease and dirt.”

Some of the hydrogen peroxide products are in powder form and need to be mixed with warm or hot water. The product can then be applied to the spot and typically left for 15 minutes. It then needs to be flushed out with water, which can be accomplished with a sub-surface spot extractor.

These are tools that can be attached to a hot water extractor or a wet/dry vacuum. So you don’t need any fancy or powerful equipment.

After the spot has been extracted, the carpet will still be wet, so custodians should place a fan or open windows, if possible, near the spot to help dry it. Carpets should be dry within 48 hours to prevent mold and mildew from developing, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is an IICRC certified firm and follows all professional cleaners' guidelines in removing urine and odors. Simply masking a urine odor will not suffice. As with all odor issues, the source must be removed and in many instances that means removing that part of the carpet padding and at times the sub-floor.

If your home or business is experiencing a lingering odor issue call the professionals at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge at (570) 335-2143. 

http://www.cleanlink.com/sm/article/Get-Below-The-Surface-To-Remove-Urine-Smell--17764

Vandalism, Sewage and Biohazard Cleanup

7/28/2017 (Permalink)

This hoarding house in Dickson City became a biohazard situation in which our services were required. We helped "Make it like it never even happened".

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge Specialty Cleaning Services:

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge professionals are trained to safely remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified technicians help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

Biohazard
Sewage Backups
Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified cleaning technicians remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge franchise professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified professionals clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge franchise professionals follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Crime Scene and Vandalism
Crime Scene Residues
From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified technicians can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.

Vandalism
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge franchise professionals also provide general vandalism cleanup for graffiti and deodorization services for situations involving spoiled foods and human and animal waste.

If your home or business has the need for a specialty cleaning company call us at (570) 235-1646

Biohazard/Crime Scene and Vandalism Cleanup

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

For safety our certified technicians use full PPE ast this crime scene cleanup in Scranton.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge Specialized Cleaning Services:

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks-Summit/Old Forge technicians are trained to safely remove bio hazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is located in Taylor, Pa and has become the Scranton areas help in turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

Biohazard
Sewage Backups

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge will remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has responded to suicide cleanups in Tunkhannock and Scranton to remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Trained SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks-Summit/Old Forge clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

Methamphetamine Labs
WE realize many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge technicians follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Crime Scene and Vandalism
Crime Scene Residues
From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge responded to a crime scene cleanup on Montage Mountain to help the business get back to normal operations in a few hours. We can clean and restore your property after a crime scene investigation.

Vandalism
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge, the Scranton areas premier cleaning company also provide general vandalism cleanup for graffiti and deodorization services for situations involving spoiled foods and human and animal waste.

Sewer Back-Up Cleanup

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

Sewer back-up from a heavy rainstorm in Dickson City. Always call a professional cleaning company when dealing with sewerage.

Sewerage is called "dirty water" and is classified as category 2 or 3. Dirty water can lead to severe mold issues and cause health issues. This water/sewer damage (pictured below) in Dickson City, was classified as a category 3 water damage when the sewer backed-up into the basement. The SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge technicians used protective equipment to drain, clean and disinfect the affected areas. It is imperative to use a anti-microbial spray to kill mold and it is recommended that the air ducting also gets cleaned and deodorized to mask the odor.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the specialized training and equipment to restore your home or business back to a pre-damage condition making it safe and healthy again. If you don’t want to clean it-We Will.

We help make it "Like it never even happened."® 

Sewage Backups Pose Risks

7/12/2017 (Permalink)

This basement in Scranton experienced a sewage backup. "Dirty" water can be potentially dangerous. Don't do it yourself call a pro at SERVPRO

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified technicians are trained to safely remove bio hazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge certified technicians remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized

Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is the Scranton areas premier sewage cleanup company. Don't take the risk of doing it yourself. Call us for all your cleanup needs: (570) 235-1646

We are proud to serve our local Lackawanna County community. From Old Forge to Forest City, we are "Here to help".

Hoarding House is a Biohazard Concern

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

Hoarding house in Moosic, Pa which we were tasked to clean and decontaminate.

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the experience, training and equipment to properly clean and make the living environment safe and healthy.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. These include the following:

Sewage backups
Crime scene residues
Suicide/death accidents
Homicide cleanups
Blood cleanup
Accident cleanup
Hoarding scenes
Animal waste/remains
Chemical spills
Tear gas cleanup
Meth lab cleanup

If your home or business experiences an unfortunate and dangerous biohazard situation, call us at (570) 235-1646. Let the trained professional at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge help return your property back to a safe and healthy living environment. Don't take the risk. Call us 24/7/365.

Meth House Decontamination

7/21/2016 (Permalink)

DO NOT ENTER a site that you think may be used for cooking meth.

What should I do if I suspect the presence of a meth lab?

DO NOT ENTER a site that you think may be used for cooking meth. Call your local law enforcement agency immediately. Meth labs present extreme dangers from fire, explosions and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Breathing chemical fumes or handling unknown substances can cause injury and even death. Meth labs are considered hazardous waste sites and should only be entered by trained and properly equipped professionals (i.e., first responder Hazardous Material (hazmat) Teams). Never handle materials you suspect were used for making meth, such as contaminated glassware or needles. Skin contact can result in burns or chemical absorption into the skin. Handling items can also cause some of the chemicals to ignite or explode on contact with water or air.

When cleanup of a property is required, the owner of the property is responsible. The property owner may want to contact his/her insurance carrier for advice and assistance regarding property cleanup and choosing a cleanup contractor. The removal of lab chemicals and equipment must be conducted by a properly trained and equipped hazardous materials (hazmat) cleanup team. After a site has been secured and no longer subject to criminal investigation, appropriately trained and equipped personnel should be hired to cleanup any remaining contaminated materials. 

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge was certified as a Meth Lab decontamination company by Amdecon. If your property was a site of a meth lab and needs a professional certified company to make it safe again, call Lackawanna County's certified company at (570) 235-1646.

Biohaz Crime Scene Cleanup Procedure

7/15/2016 (Permalink)

 Bio-hazardous Waste Cleanup Procedures
The term biohazard describes “any biological material (e.g. plants, animals, microorganisms, or their byproducts) that may present a potential risk to the health and well-being of humans, animals, or the environment.” Crime scene cleanup companies like SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge encounter large amounts of this biological matter, including blood and other body fluids, that potentially pose a health risk.

When faced with cleaning up a blood spill site, it’s important to remember that a commercial cleaning product and trash bag for disposal is not sufficient. Just because something looks clean doesn’t mean that it is clean. Even the smallest speck of blood can harbor potentially dangerous blood borne pathogens. That’s why crime scene cleanup companies treat all sites as if they contain biohazards, and they make sure to take proper precautions when removing bio-hazardous waste.

If you are in need of bio-hazardous waste cleanup services, contact SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge at (570) 235-1646. We’re available 24/7 in the Lackawanna County area and are prepared to help you.

Biohaz Crime Scene trauma and Death Cleanup

7/14/2016 (Permalink)

Biohazardous waste cleanup requires safety precautions in order to prevent the spread of potential infections. Potentially hazardous bloodborne pathogens can be present even in the smallest drops of blood and other body fluids, so following proper biohazardous waste cleanup procedures can help prevent certain diseases. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge, a crime scene and trauma clean up company, abides by all federal and state regulations to ensure safety.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge provides crime and trauma scene cleanup in a discreet, professional, and safe manner, and is compliant with state and federal agency requirements. We take extra precaution when handling potentially hazardous materials, including using a  28-point checklist to ensure cleaning, disinfection, and safety compliance. 

Our biohazard waste cleanup services include:

  • Homicide and suicide cleanup
  • Blood cleanup
  • Biohazard remediation and removal
  • Vehicle blood and bio remediation 

Our disposal process includes using specially marked biohazard bags, specific bagging procedures, and proper personal protective equipment (PPE), and licensed waste companies haul away and dispose of contaminated items. 

Call SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge at (570) 235-1646 for all your bio-haz cleaning needs. We are available 24/7 in the greater Scranton area.

Unattended Death Cleanup

7/13/2016 (Permalink)

No one wants to do what you’re about to do. You have to face an unattended death, and you’re overwhelmed. How in the world will you clean this up?

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge can help. We’re experts in the cleanup of unattended deaths, and no matter how long the situation has gone unrecognized, we know what to do. There are consequences to biological contamination beyond stains and odors; we know how to account for them and make your environment safe again.

Dealing with a body means dealing with the possible spread of diseases, some of which may be life-threatening. Swine flu, E. coli, MRSA, hepatitis — all these diseases are blood-borne, and some of them can stay in affected environments for years before they become active. Protecting you from them is our responsibility. That’s sanitization and disinfection.

Because even small traces of biological contamination can present these risks, we don’t stop until a scene is safe, even if that means the removal of sections of carpet, flooring, or other materials. Also, emergency services are under no obligation to help you remove traces of fingerprint powder, broken glass, or any other foreign material at a crime scene — but we are. That’s remediation.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge takes our responsibility to sanitize, disinfect and remediate your home, business or vehicle very seriously, and we communicate how and why we’re doing so throughout the whole process. That’s why we’re Northeastern Pennsylvania's premier crime scene cleanup and biohazard remediation company. Call us at (570) 235-1646 for 24/7 emergency service. When you need to deal with an unattended death and you’re asking yourself, “What now?” — trust SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge anywhere in the Scranton area to answer the question.

Dog, Cat and Human Urine Odor Removal

7/12/2016 (Permalink)

Dog, Cat and Human Urine Odor Removal

The only difference between dog urine and human urine is that they come out of differing species. Otherwise, it’s next to impossible to tell them apart, unless you have the urine chemically analyzed. Dog urine contains water, bacteria, ammonia, uric acid and dog hormones. The real waste product our bodies have to get rid of is ammonia, which is formed by the breakdown of amino acids — the building blocks of proteins. But ammonia is so toxic that only tiny concentrations can be tolerated. So any ammonia in the bloodstream is rapidly converted to urea in the liver.
Its the ammonia that odor that most of us smell and as we all know a very difficult odor to remove, especially once it permeates porous substances. In many instances a through carpet cleaning is not enough. Carpet padding is a porous material which will retain the urine causing the odor to persistent, thus removing the contaminated pad is a good idea. At times, where a repeated cat spray has seriously compromised the sheet-rock, a 4-ft cut to remove the affected area is necessary. Lastly, depending on how comprised the area is, the sub-floor may also need to be removed or at a bare minimum sealed to keep the odor from emanating.
As a odor removal company, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge can help identify and eliminate lingering pet and human odors. By employing using trained technicians and specialized odor removal equipment we have the expertise to help home and business owners have a safe and healthy environment.
By identifying and removing the source we are able to make this home safe again. Call SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge for your stubborn odor issues at (570) 235-1646.

Death and Suicide Cleanup

7/6/2016 (Permalink)

Do You Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

Call Us Today at (570) 235-1646.

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances. 

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge provides cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. We are located right in Taylor, a local resource for anyone in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area.

These include the following:
Sewage backup
Crime scene residue
Suicide/death accident
Homicide cleanup
Blood cleanup
Accident cleanup
Hoarding scene
Animal waste/remains
Chemical spill
Tear gas cleanup
Meth lab cleanup

These situations are a health hazard and should be remediated immediately. We are available 24/7 for emergency service.

What is Crime Scene Cleanup

7/5/2016 (Permalink)

What Is Trauma Scene Cleanup? Trauma scene cleanup is defined as any situation that necessitates biohazard cleanup services, residential or commercial restoration, or material disposal. Specific examples of trauma scene cleanup include: • Cleanup for crime scenes, including decontaminating chemicals like tear gas• Accidental death, homicide, and suicide scene cleanup/decontamination• Meth lab cleanup• Animal infestation cleanup• Airborne blood and pathogen cleanup• Emergency equipment, facility, and vehicle cleanup• Infectious disease decontamination• Tissue and bodily fluid cleanup SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge are specialists with extensive industry experience and is aware of these situations and understands that they can be quite emotional for the parties involved. For this reason, the our team understands the need to provide expedient, respectful services irrespective of the cleanup scene site. Not everyone is not qualified to complete a cleanup at a trauma scene. When you call SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge you can be confident that they’ll provide you with the quick, safe and respectful elimination of contaminated debris from the trauma scene. Restoration Services Following Cleanup Some of the restoration services that may follow the trauma scene cleanup include:• Repainting walls that have been damaged• Replacing or repairing sub floor, drywall, or other structural elements• Restoring counter tops and cabinets• Replacing flooring• Checking electrical machines, HVAC systems, and plumbing equipment to ensure functionality• Replacing windows Access Professional Services Immediately If you’re currently in need of high-quality trauma scene cleanup services, call SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge at (570) 235-1646 for 24/7 emergency service. Our technicians are thoroughly trained and come with all the right personal protection equipment to optimize and expedite the trauma scene cleanup process. 

Methamphetamine Damage Cleanup

6/30/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO trained personnel cleaning a meth house in Scranton, Pa.

The chemicals used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine can be caustic, and the property can be made unsafe. Once the lab is dismantled, the cleanup remains in order to ensure that the property is safe for human habitation. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is a certified cleaner of meth houses. We underwent the required training to achieve this distinction. We have the specialized training and equipment to ensure that your home is chemical-free and safe. If a property you own was a victim of methamphetamine manufacturing and need professional cleanup, call the Scranton area's leader in meth house cleaning: SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge for 24/7 emergency service at (570) 235-1646. We can make your house safe. We also can clean human and animal remains, crime and trauma scenes, skunk odors as well as any other bio-hazard situation. Let us help you restore your home or business.

Crime Scene and Trauma Cleanup Services

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

No one should have to deal with the traumatic events that would require our services, but if you do, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is here to help you on the road to recovery. We are the premier crime scene clean up and bio-hazard remediation company in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Call us at (570) 235-1646 for crime scene cleanup, bio-hazard cleanup, death cleanup or blood spill cleanup, any time – day or night. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge provides professional and compassionate services to families and employers who are dealing with the death of a friend or loved one due to suicide, homicide or industrial accidents. Our highly trained and caring field technicians are experienced in all the protocols necessary to return your home or business to a safe and livable condition. SERVPRO's crime scene cleanup teams have handled blood cleanup, communicable disease decontamination and specialty sanitization for crime scenes, hoarding situations and contaminated buildings. We understand that not only are these situations unexpected and upsetting, but they can also be dangerous and difficult to clean. We document the work we perform in detailed reports provided to you for your insurance company or compliance department. We provide business and residential customers with a full range of bio-hazard remediation and cleaning assistance in cases involving homicide, suicide, unattended death, personal accidents, industrial accidents, tear gas, and communicable disease outbreaks. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is dedicated to emergency rapid response—our professional service technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area. Call us any time! (570) 235-164

Bio-Hazard and Crime Scene Cleanup

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

Cleaning a trauma scene at a local senior living center in Scranton, Pa.

In addition to smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge handles biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration.

Bloodborne Pathogens:
SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge removes and disposes of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from an accident, trauma, crime or death. Our highly trained technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.

We know from experience that dealing with a situation like this is traumatic and difficult to handle. Do not attempt to clean the area yourself; call the professionals at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge. We are available 24/7 to handle any emergency in Lackawanna County. Call us at (570) 235-1646 to get your Scranton/Wilkes Barre home or business back into shape after a biohazard event.

Trauma, Crime Scene and Meth House Cleanup Specialist

6/8/2016 (Permalink)

Completing a trauma cleaning at a home in Scranton.

Did you know - SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge also offers fast, reliable bio-hazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services?

Exposure to such chemical and biological contaminants is a serious health risk to occupants, employees, customers and owners. Failing to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is highly trained to safely and effectively remove bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Fully equipped in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), our crew will make it "Like it never even happened."

If your home or business needs a bio-hazard cleanup, call us 24/7 at (570) 235-1646. We are the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area's premier restoration provider.

5 Causes of Sewage Damage

3/7/2016 (Permalink)

Cleaning a sewage damage in Scranton, Pa.

5 Common Causes of Sewage Damage in Your Home or Business

Sewage damage to a home or business can happen slowly over time or very suddenly. There are multiple causes of sewage damage, but the result is the same: a difficult-to-clean mess that can have serious health implications. Sewage in your home or business requires immediate attention and professional cleaning in many cases. Avoid sewage damage by watching out for the most common causes  1. Seepage from faulty seals. Seals around toilets and in pipe connections can deteriorate over time, and a lot of seepage from these leaks builds up slowly, doing damage beneath floorboards and in walls before you're even aware of it. Signs of hidden seepage include buckling flooring, stains on ceilings and walls, and an unpleasant smell that doesn't go away with cleaning. Inspect seals regularly to avoid a hidden leak; if you rent or lease your home or office space, report any signs of seepage to your property manager immediately. The longer a leak goes on, the more serious the damage will be. 2. Burst pipes. A burst pipe can release a sudden stream of sewage into your home and can happen at any time. Pipes can burst as a result of a blockage, improper insulation during freezing weather or simple deterioration. Upkeep and careful winterizing of pipes is vital to avoiding a burst sewer line. 3. Flooding. A flood, whether caused by rain or a body of water overflowing its banks, can put too much pressure on the sewer system, causing sewage to back up into bathtubs and sinks. Heavy backup can overflow into your home, resulting in severe damage. If you live in a high-risk area for flooding, look into backup valves and other preventative measures to keep flood waters from forcing sewage into your home. Even low-risk areas can experience floods that cause sewage backup, so precautions are always a good idea. 4. Clogged sewer lines. Flushing the wrong thing down the toilet can result in a sewage backup that can quickly overflow into your bathroom. Blockage in the main sewer line can cause sewage to back up through every sink, toilet, and tub in your home – a problem that is greater than just one overflowing toilet. Avoid flushing anything down the toilet that doesn't belong, including feminine hygiene products and baby wipes. Clogs in the sewer line don't always come from the toilet, either. Don't dump grease down your sinks, and be cautious when using the garbage disposal to prevent clogs. 5. Tree roots. As trees grow, their roots can do significant damage to pipes beneath the ground. They can puncture or crush pipes, causing leaks and sewage backup. Keep an eye on larger trees on your property – and neighboring properties as well. It's best to have an expert examine any trees whose position might be a cause for concern.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area's leader in smoke, fire, water and sewer cleanup and restoration. Sewage is a category 3 water disaster and needs to be cleaned and treated by a professional cleaning and mitigation company. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is an IICRC certified firm with the specialized workforce and equipment to address a sewage disaster safely. We are an emergency services company serving the Lackawanna and Wyoming county areas. Call us for 24/7 assistance (570) 235-1646

Sewage

1/6/2016 (Permalink)

Sewage loss in the city of Scranton. Full personal protection equipment was necessary for the health and safety for all involved.

Sewage poses a very significant threat to human health. Any time sewage is suspected, no matter the color of the water, all suitable precautions should be observed. The severity will depend upon the extent, content and degree of penetration.

A professional certified company should always be used when cleaning a sewage loss. The health and safety must always be considered. SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area's leader in specialty cleaning, has the proper equipment and training necessary to professionally handle any size sewage loss. If your home or business experiences a sewage spill call the professionals at SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge at (570) 235-1646 for service in Lackawanna, Wyoming or Susquehanna counties. 

Reducing the risk of sewer backups

6/9/2015 (Permalink)

This sewer backup in Dunmore, Pa was remediated safely by SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge.

In order to avoid blockage of sewer lateral pipes and the connecting city sewer main line – reducing your risk of suffering the damages caused by a sewer or drain backup - follow these tips:

• Dispose of cooking oil properly - when hot oil is poured directly down a drain, it eventually cools and solidifies, leading to a potential blockage over time. Store used cooking oil in a heat-resistant container and dispose of it properly.

• Only flush bathroom tissue - bathroom tissue is specially manufactured to deteriorate rapidly; however, other paper products including facial tissues, napkins, paper towels, diapers, feminine products - do not break down quickly and can lead to blockage in your sewer lateral pipes or the city sewer main line. Avoid flushing anything down the toilet other than bathroom tissue.

• Ensure proper plumbing connections connecting a French drain or sump pump directly to your sanitary sewer line leads to blockages from debris and silt. Joining metal piping together with plastic can sometimes constrict drainage flow if not done properly. Contact a plumber to ensure proper plumbing connections that meet all legal codes.

• Choose plastic - plastic pipes are the most reliable way to prevent tree roots from entering your drainage and sewer systems. Plastic piping is also less likely to collapse or break. Consider replacing outdated sewer lateral pipes with more durable plastic.

SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge has the training to properly clean any catergory 3 or dirty water backup. it is not recommened that you do this yourself. Call a professional. There are serious health consequences in dealing with dirty water.

Sewer backup cleanup is just one service SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge is trained to remediate. If you suffer a sewer backup call us. We service all of Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne, Wyoming and Susquehanna counties.