Bio-One of Columbus decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

The Biohazard Report - May 2025

Graphic that says "Bio-One" in the center with the biohazard symbol to the left; top of the circle in white lettering says "Help First Business Second" the lower half says the same.

"Take calculated risks. That is quite different from being rash."

~General George S. Patton 

The unexpected happens -- There's been an unattended death, homicide, suicide, or medical event in your home/property. What do you do next? Please ask yourself: 

But Should I.....

  • Do It by myself?
  • Ask family or friends to help?
  • Ask my maintenance or janitorial staff to do it?

(HINT: The answer is "None of the Above.")

Why Not?

  • Legal and Financial Penalties:
    Failure to adhere to biohazard regulations, including OSHA standards, can result in fines, legal action, and potential liabilities. 
  • Health Risks:
    Ignoring biohazards can expose individuals to short-term and long-term health risks, including illness and even death. 
  • Property Damage:
    Unattended or improperly remediated biohazards can lead to long-term damage to property. 
  • Insurance Issues:
    Biohazard remediation can also pose challenges for insurance companies, potentially leading to disputes and coverage issues. 
  • Scope of Liability:
    A person or company involved in a biohazard remediation process, either actively or passively, can be held liable for the consequences, including the cost of cleanup. 
  • Importance of Professional Cleanup:
    DIY cleaning of biohazards can spread contamination and expose individuals to unnecessary risks, highlighting the importance of professional remediation services. 
  • Insurance Coverage:
    Insurance coverage for biohazard remediation can be complex, with some policies not adequately addressing the specific risks associated with biohazard cleanup, leading to disputes and potential uncovered losses. 

Tim's Corner:

When it comes to trauma scenes and other biohazard clean up, I’m often asked, “Can’t I just do this myself?”  There are two main reasons that I advise against it. 

The first is the emotional trauma that an untrained person can experience when cleaning up after a death, especially if it’s the death of a friend or family member.  There are some things that you can’t unsee.

The second reason is the liability.  My property managers and commercial accounts know that if they send someone in to do the work who isn’t properly trained and licensed, and may not have the appropriate safety gear, they risk financial loss if that person is injured or becomes ill. They also understand that there are consequences to improperly disposing of regulated biohazardous waste.

Don’t gamble your business.  Trust mine.

~Tim


For more information, visit our website or give us a call at 614-743-1795.
We will take your call 24/7 and provide free estimates.


Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards. Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.

For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus 

LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus 

Facebook: Bio-One Columbus 

Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Bluesky: Bio-One Columbus

Copyright © 2025 Bio-One Columbus, All rights reserved.

Graphic that says "Bio-One" in the center with the biohazard symbol to the left; top of the circle in white lettering says "Help First Business Second" the lower half says the same.

"Insects are the silent storytellers of the natural world, narrating tales of survival, adaptation, and coexistence."

~Mary Jane West-Eberhard

What The Bug?

Tick? Flea? Bedbug? Something else?

Unless you are in the field of Entomology (the scientific study of insects), it is highly likely that any bug you find in your home or office will give you the "ick." Insects are a natural part of our environment, found on all continents and in every environment. There are some insects that you just do NOT want where you live. 

Bio-One Columbus does not provide extermination services, but we do run into bugs in many of the homes where we work. Here are some of our suggestions on how to identify a few of the most common insects and what to do!

Fleas are small, wingless blood-sucking parasites that live on the exterior of their host. Adult fleas feed only on the blood of warm-blooded hosts, preferring the body temperature of dogs or cats. While they feed on non-humans, they may bite humans. Bites from fleas look like small red dots and may occur in two or three groups or clusters around feet, ankles, and legs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a four-step process to combat a flea infestation, including sanitation of the areas where fleas breed, treat every pets in the home, use a licensed pest control application, and follow-up frequently to prevent re-infestation.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the CDC, and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) all consider bed bugs a public health pest. However, unlike most public health pests, bed bugs are not known to transmit or spread disease. Bedbugs prefer to feed on humans and can hide in spaces the width of a credit card - not just mattresses but seams of couches, electrical outlets, under wallpaper, or even doorframes. 

Every year termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage, and property owners spend over two billion dollars to treat them. Termites rarely emerge from soil, mud tubes, or food sources through which they are tunneling. Most people are not aware they have termites until they see a swarm or come across damage during construction. Many termiticides are highly toxic, making it critical to follow label directions with added care. Pest management professionals have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment as required by the label, which minimizes risks and maximizes effectiveness.

Midges and gnats are common names for a large number of small, non-biting flies. Many species look like mosquitoes and may form annoying swarms or clouds in the air but they do not bite. The immature stages develop in water in pools, containers, ponds, clogged rain gutters, or in some cases, wet soil or seepage areas. Most feed on living or decaying plant matter or food remains. It is helpful to know if the flying bugs in your kitchen are drain flies, fruit flies, biting gnats, fungus gnats, or midges before you choose an extermination method. 


So Wait.....

If Bio-One Columbus doesn't exterminate infestations of bugs, why is this part of your newsletter?

Great question! 
Extermination of all life-stages of insects (adult, juvenile and egg) requires that the treatment reach all surfaces and areas where the bugs live. If a home is filled with possessions, cluttered with deep filth, or has biohazardous material that is a source of nourishment for the insect, extermination will not be successful. We can come in and expose surfaces for treatment, remove food sources for the insects and safely dispose of heavily-infested possessions.


Did You Know?

  • Ticks can grow from the size of a grain of rice to the size of a marble.
  • Insects have been present for about 350 million years, and humans for only 300,000 years.
  • Blow flies are the first kind of insect attracted to an animal carcass following death.
  • There are about 91,000 different kinds (species) of insects in the United States. In the world, some 1.5 million different kinds (species) have been named.
  • Fruit flies were the first living things in space: Fruit flies were the first living creatures to be sent into space. 
  • Termite queens can live for decades: Queen termites can live for 25 to 50 years, making them the longest-lived insect. 

Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards. Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.

For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus 

LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus 

Facebook: Bio-One Columbus 

Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Bluesky: Bio-One Columbus

Copyright © 2025 Bio-One Columbus, All rights reserved.

Graphic that says "Bio-One" in the center with the biohazard symbol to the left; top of the circle in white lettering says "Help First Business Second" the lower half says the same.

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

~John F. Kennedy

We Appreciate You!

At Bio-One Columbus, we have many things to be thankful for this November. We are always grateful for our customers who trust us to do the difficult and life-altering work in stressful times.

There's our continued appreciation of first responders and law enforcement who trust our work to call us in times of need. And to the property managers that we hope never need us and hold onto our business card -- we thank you for calling us in those rare times you do need our services.

We know you have a choice in biohazard remediation companies and appreciate your confidence in choosing us!


Why Be Thankful?

The word “thank” stems from the Latin word tongēre. The root tong- means “think.” Loosely translated, the expression might read “I will remember what you have done for me."

Intentionally practicing gratitude and thanks on a daily basis may seem a little silly but research shows that practicing gratitude and being thankful can lead to a host of physical, mental and social benefits. 

For example, thanking someone can increase our own personal happiness and lead to higher levels of life satisfaction. Practicing gratitude also increases optimism and empathy.

Further, being grateful to others can reduce inflammation, improve sleep and increase our energy levels. Gratitude can improve job satisfaction and lead to healthier relationships with others.

This November, see if practicing gratitude daily can help you and those around you find joy and health a little easier!



Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards. Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.

For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus 

LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus 

Facebook: Bio-One Columbus 

Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Copyright © 2024 Bio-One Columbus, All rights reserved.

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”

~Abraham Lincoln

How Can You Shape the Future of Aging?

September celebrates Healthy Aging Month, sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. The goal of this month is to highlight recent scientific advancements in healthy aging, global insights on longevity, and steps everyone can take to stay independent as we age. 

Each of us will get older! While we cannot stop the inevitable genetic march towards aging, what we can do is mindfully practice the steps towards healthy and independent aging. To shape your aging future, consider these steps.

  1. Intentional Movement: We've all heard that 30 minutes of exercise 3-4 days a week is healthy, but did you know that any purposeful movement also improves your health and wellness? Take those extra steps from the car to the store, dance while making dinner, or sing while cleaning!
  2. Nourish Your Body: A healthy range of foods that support your body's function is important over a lifetime. To avoid GI issues as you age, balance protein, fiber and nutrients in each meal. Don't forget to allow yourself foods you enjoy! Allowing foods like ice cream and potato chips can keep us from binging and having an unhealthy relationship with food.
  3. Maintain Home Safety: The #1 safety issue that impedes healthy aging is falls. Falling can lead to broken bones, head injuries, internal bleeding and anxiety. Keeping your home clean from dirt, well-lit, and clear of clutter can go a long ways to maintaining healthy aging and independence.
  4. Positive Attitude: Research shows that if you have a positive attitude towards aging, it can add years to your life. Re-thinking aging with a lens of optimizing strengths, compensating for challenges and selecting activities that bring you happiness is the right recipe for healthy aging.
  5. Stay Active: A balance of activities that include time with friends and family, fun activities by yourself, and learning new things can keep your spirit and mind young.


While we cannot give you diet or exercise advice, Bio-One Columbus CAN help you keep your home decluttered and clean of biohazardous waste that impedes your journey towards a healthy and long life. Call us today for a consultation: 614-743-1795.


Congratulations!

David Hays, Code Enforcement Officer
City of Westerville

David was our winner of the "Name That Feces" Contest. He received a $50 Amazon Gift Card from Tim Lockard, Owner of Bio-One Columbus.

Thank you to everyone who participated! 


Bio-One Columbus
Five-Star Review

"I have NEVER been so excited to leave a 5 star review, if I could give 10 stars to this company I would! Bio-One of Columbus is an amazing company! Patience, kindness, understanding, those are just a few words I would use to describe the service that was given to my family! Timothy is a diamond in the rough! He went above and beyond working it out so that we could use his service. His staff was equally as amazing! They worked tirelessly and professionally to complete their job! I have never been so impressed with such complete respect for someone in a hard situation! They truly make your days ahead so much brighter and stress free! If you are ever in need of their services please, please... I cannot beg of you enough, to contact Timothy at Bio-One Columbus! You will not regret it!" -Paula R., Columbus OH


Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards. Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.

For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus 

LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus 

Facebook: Bio-One Columbus 

Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Copyright © 2024 Bio-One Columbus, All rights reserved.

Biohazard symbol with the words Bio-One and Help First, Business Second

“Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments.”

~ Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy

Milestones & Moments

Eight Years, Numerous Memories & Still Counting!

Bio-One Columbus was started eight years ago on a hope and a dream, with Owner Tim Lockard posting this on social media:


"Tuesday, June 14th is Opening Day. I'm the proud owner of Bio-One Columbus, a biohazard remediation company that will clean up crime scenes, suicides, homicides, undiscovered death, hoarding, mold remediation and just about anything you can imagine that other companies can't deal with in a safe manner. As a paramedic for 15 years I've witnessed the front end of a lot of tragedy. I plan to carry that experience into my new career and bring a level of compassion that will help families get back to their lives after these types of tragic events. Without the continued support of my friends and family this would never have been possible. Thank you all."

Since opening day, our business operations have grown exponentially as has our capacity to manage multiple jobs in short periods of time. To date we've supported 1391 individuals, families, property owners and businesses in their time of need. Our commitment to providing personalized professional, discrete, and compassionate service remains the same as it was on Day 1, as summed up by Tim today: "The stories of the families we serve continue to inspire me today.  They’re why we do this work."

Whether it is an unattended death, odor removal, crime scene cleanup, removal of gross filth or de-hoarding a home, we are there for you 24/7, 365 days a year, as we have been for the last 2,922 days we've been in business.


Memorable Moments with Bio-One Columbus


Eight Years of Reviews

While Bio-One Columbus has many 5-star reviews, this is one of our recent favorites:

"I am extremely impressed with the services provided by Bio-One Columbus! The Bio-One Team placed meticulous attention to detail. Not only is their work of the highest quality, but their professionalism, compassion and reliability are also commendable. I appreciate their punctuality and willingness to accommodate my concerns. I highly recommend Tim and his team if anyone is in need of biohazard cleaning." ~Marie F., Google Review


Did You Know?

Biohazard symbol with the words Bio-One and Help First, Business Second
  • Bio-One Columbus was started by Tim Lockard on June 14, 2016.
  • There are over 130 Bio-One franchises in 41 states across the United States.
  • Bio-One is ranked #1 in crime and trauma-scene cleaning in the US.
  • Bio-One Columbus offers over 20 different specialized biohazard remediation services.
  • Bronze symbolizes the 8th anniversary, representing strength and endurance.

Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards. Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.
For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus 

LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus 

Facebook: Bio-One Columbus 

Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Copyright © 2024 Bio-One Columbus, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
3000 E. Main Street #151, Columbus OH 43209

Biohazard symbol with the words Bio-One and Help First, Business Second

“Never give up on someone with a mental illness. When 'I' is replaced by 'we,' Illness becomes Wellness.”

~Shannon L. Alder

How Are You?

(No Really, How Are You?)

"Fine."

"Okay."

"Alright."

We’ve all had someone tell us they were one of those things and known that it couldn’t be further from the truth. Maybe it was the look on their face, the tone of their voice, or their body language that gave them away – or maybe you’ve noticed that they have been acting differently lately.

Distress can show up in many ways. Whether someone thinks they are doing a good job of masking their emotions, or they are obviously being sarcastic when they say that they’re alright, it’s normal to want to help in some way. While what you say will likely be different depending on how well you know the person, here are some ideas for things to say to create an environment that encourages someone to open up about what they’re going through.

  • “Are you sure? If you want to talk, let me know.”
  • “It seems like something is bothering you. I’m here to listen if you want to share.” •
  • “I’ve been ‘fine’ before – I’m here if you want to talk about it.”
  • “Do you want to (get coffee/go to lunch/grab a bite/take a walk) later? I feel like we have a lot to catch up on.”
  • “That wasn’t very convincing – I’m here if you want to chat.”
  • "How are you - really?"

When You Aren't "Fine"

If you feel sad, worried, or scared after trying to help yourself or reaching out to others, you might be showing the early warning signs of a mental health condition.

  • Visit mhascreening.org to take an anonymous, free, and private mental health test. After you are finished you will be given information about next steps..
  • If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
  • You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741.

Someone Opens Up To You - Now What?

Start a conversation about mental health when there is an open window of time to have an in-depth discussion, and neither you or the person you’re talking to will have to cut the conversation short to take care of other obligations. Plan to set aside at least 30 minutes to an hour.

Do....

  • Start with a text if face-to-face is too intimidating.
  • Listen. Really listening means actively paying attention to the person who is speaking and resisting the urge to talk about personal experiences unless asked. This is hard for everyone, but practice helps!
  • Ask if they’ve thought about what they might need to feel better. If they haven’t, offer to support, listen, and talk it out with them. If they have, support them in following through with their needs.
  • Make sure to keep things confidential, unless it is life threatening.
  • Normalize. Assure the person you’re talking to that having a mental health concern is common, and
    there are lots of resources to help them feel better.
  • Prepare to follow up. It takes courage for someone to speak up about what is bothering them. Exchange contact information (if you don’t have it already) and touch base in a few days to see how the person is feeling and if there is anything you can do to help.
  • Research some resources like websites, hotlines, text lines, and community organizations so you can be prepared to offer them if it seems appropriate.

Don't...

  • Tell them, “You shouldn’t think that way.” It can be difficult to have conversations about mental health concerns, and they may have worried about it for some time before talking to you.
  • Use the word “crazy.”
  • Tell someone what they SHOULD do; instead, ask what they want you to help them with.
  • Assume that they want your advice. Many times, people just want someone else to listen to them and help them feel less alone.
  • Make comparisons. Telling someone “it could be worse” minimizes their experience and invalidates their feelings.
  • Take on trying to fix all the person’s problems. Offer help where appropriate, but don’t get into a trap of trying to solve the problem, especially if it seems like a professional should be involved

Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards.

Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry.
For more information, visit us at https://bioonecolumbus.com/ 

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus Facebook: Bio-One Columbus Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Bio-One Logo

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go. They merely determine where you start.”

~ Nido Qubein

Fresh Start for the New Year

Happy New Year! The first of the year has historically been a time when people review the past and resolve to do better in the future. Whether it’s to exercise more, lose weight or de-clutter a home, almost 80% of people fail at their New Year’s resolutions by February. The American Psychological Association notes that while a high number of resolutions fail, it does not mean setting a resolution is a negative thing. In fact, several factors can increase success.

Research shows that those who achieve their resolutions are more successful because (1) they set small and achievable goals and (2) they enlist outside support! If your resolution was to de-clutter living spaces or storage units, find and eliminate that odor you’ve dealt with for months, or to finally deep clean your home, Bio-One Columbus offers the support you need to be successful.  


Before & After

This before and after photo shows only a small bit of what Bio-One Columbus can do for you. Call us today at 614-743-1795 for a service consultation.


Bio-One Service Spotlight

January’s Bio-One spotlight is on our decluttering and deep cleaning services. We will work with you to identify valuables, declutter and deep clean the space, and create a healthier and safer living environment. To learn more, visit our website at this link.


Bio-One of Columbus is a leader in crime scene cleanup and biohazard decontamination services in Columbus. Our technicians are highly skilled and have been trained on OSHA's safety standards.  Bio-One of Columbus continues to be the most passionate and caring company in the cleaning services industry. For more information, visit us at https://www.bioonecolumbus.com/

Twitter: @BioOneColumbus  LinkedIn: Bio-One Columbus  Facebook: Bio-One Columbus Instagram: Bio-One Columbus

Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Summary of Biohazard Work

Bio-One answers the call to help our community and remediate a variety of scenes. From hoarding, crime scene cleaning, or simply giving back, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do.

Here is this week's Weekly Wrap-Up.

Arizona Law Enforcement Grant - Voting Ends August 15

Voting for the 2021 Bio-One AZ Law Enforcement Grant is almost over. Don't miss your chance to vote for an AZ law enforcement agency! First place receives a $5,000 grant from Bio-One and second place will receive a complimentary brats and burgers catered BBQ. 

Last year, congratulations went to the Snowflake Taylor Police Department. The $5,000 allowed them to purchase 15 fully stocked Modular Trauma & Bleeding First Aid Responder Kits, enough to equip every patrol vehicle! 

Thank you to the AZ Bio-One offices for making this possible!

National Law Enforcement Museum Post - 9/11 Exhibit

Bio-One, Inc. is a sponsor of the newest exhibit at the National Law Enforcement Museum, Post - 9/11: The Evolution of American Law Enforcement

As described on LawEnforcementMuseum.org:

Since 9/11 law enforcement has come together – in partnership with other agencies, the private sector, and the general public – to help make us all safer. In response to the threats raised by 9/11, law enforcement has seen changes in the areas of intelligence collection and analysis, interagency partnerships and information sharing, technology and innovation, training and preparation, and community engagement.

The National Law Enforcement Museum will present a new exhibition to mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and honor the officers who rose to the challenge that day. This will be the first exhibition to focus on the significant changes to U.S. law enforcement that occurred in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

The exhibit opens August 27, 2021 and tickets are available for purchase

To learn more about the exhibit, register for the August 19 virtual conversation The Post-9/11 Story: Questions, Reflections, and a Museum Exhibit. This program will pull back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes conversations that go into crafting an exhibit about the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and life since. Learn more and register here! 

The Post-9/11 Story Sponsored by Bio-One

What to Ask Before Hiring a Crime Scene Cleaner

New blog post! Today, there are hundreds of companies that advertise crime and trauma scene cleaning, and a simple Google search may prove overwhelming when you're experiencing one of the most traumatic moments in your life.

To help, we've listed pre-qualifying questions to ask before choosing a crime and trauma scene company. Here's a link to our recent blog post! 


Bio-One What to Ask Before Hiring a Crime Scene Cleaner

The roots of crime- and trauma-scene cleaning companies can be traced to the 1990s, and at that time only a dozen or so companies existed. The industry was widely unregulated and awareness of contamination risks were relatively non-existant.

"I was young and dumb and saw something you only see in movies, so I quickly shut the door, took a deep breath, sat on the couch with the widow and told everyone else to get her out of here and take her to lunch, and we’ll clean this up for her," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, Founder of Bio-One Inc. "We were just trying to help a lady in her greatest time of need, and that’s for me how I got into the crime scene and cleaning business."  Read Nick's story in Franchise Times

Today, there are hundreds of companies that advertise crime and trauma scene cleaning, and a simple Google search may prove overwhelming when you're experiencing one of the most traumatic moments in your life. To help, we've listed pre-qualifying questions to ask before choosing a crime and trauma scene company. 

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaner

There are a number of key questions to ask crime and trauma scene cleaning technicians or business owners to properly root out which one is best for your goals and circumstances. 

  • Are you local? When there's a blood spill, response time is key to prevent biohazards from spreading and to ensure quick remediation. Several businesses may pay for online advertising in your city, but their technicians could be 3 or more hours away. Furthermore, avoid calling toll free numbers. "These numbers often lead to call centers. We're local. They're not," said Ginger Akemon, owner of Bio-One in Jacksonville, FL
  • Is your business certified and insured? Professional crime and trauma scene cleaning companies should have bloodborne pathogen certifications, they should follow OSHA personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines and remediation processes, and they should have insurance for their business. 
  • What is your process for disposing biohazardous waste? Once the remediation is complete, the accumulated waste will need to be disposed in accordance to local state guidelines. Make sure the business owner or technician is aware of these guidelines and has an appropriate plan for disposal.  
  • What happens to valuable or personal items that are impacted? At Bio-One, we are trained to be mindful of valuable and perceived valuable items, such as pictures, wallets, or a baseball card collection. Professional crime and trauma scene cleaners should ask if there are valuable items to keep an eye out for, and they will keep the family informed if these items are found. 
  • How will you charge for your services? In most cases, home insurance will cover the cost of biohazard remediation - less your deductible. Ask if they can open a claim on your behalf, taking this burden off your shoulders. If you don't have homeowners insurance, it's OK to ask for a free estimate so you can compare costs between other local companies. 
  • Will you be discrete during and after the job? Michele Amoranto, Bio-One owner in Oceanside, CA, always assures her clients that discretion is top of mind while her team is onsite. Bio-One vehicles are unmarked and technicians will designate work areas to don and doff PPE out of view from neighbors. 
  • Do you have a list of resources that can help after the cleanup? You may need flooring replaced or fresh drywall installed, which will also be covered under your home insurance claim, and a recommendation could help speed up the reconstruction process. Additionally, many crime and trauma scene cleaners have connections with local counselors and victim's advocates. In west Texas, Bio-One owner, Garrett Spooner, always offers a list of free mental health resources and states that, "Being volunteers of our local Crisis Intervention Unit, we consider our job incomplete without making sure our clients' mental health, grief process, and other issues our clients may have, are addressed."

Last but certainly most important, make sure the business you speak with shows care and compassion for your situation. They should want to do everything possible to support you and your loved ones.

If you are searching for a crime and trauma scene cleaner, Bio-One is here for you. All of our offices adhere to our business motto Help First, Business Second and are available 24/7. Click here to search for a Bio-One team near you.


Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 7 Thin Gold Line Help First Business Second

Bio-One teams across the U.S. answer calls to help their communities and remediate a variety of scenes. In our new blog series, we'd like to bring you into the Bio-One world by sharing stories of the unique and important work we do for local communities.

Here is Week 7 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Thank You to the Thin Gold Line

The second week of April is a time to celebrate and thank telecommunications professionals who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Often called the thin gold line, 911 dispatchers are true heroes behind the scenes

Coast to coast, Bio-One teams found fun and unique ways to recognize the Thin Gold Line. 

Bio-One Helps Homeless Man with Vehicle Clean Up

This week, News San Diego reported "Homeless man's story inspires San Diego mom to enlist community's help", featuring Rene Flohr and Nicki Chipp-Flohr, owners of Bio-One. The Bio-One duo spotted a NextDoor post asking for anyone who could help 79 year-old, Les, who had been living out of his vehicle and was recently diagnosed with skin cancer. His vehicle was floor to ceiling full of items, and Bio-One was ready to help clean and disinfect the vehicle so it could be sold or donated. 

In a message to Bio-One owners, Nicki said, "I am very proud of what we are doing to help someone. I thought you’d all appreciate it, since we live the Bio-One motto of #helpfirstbusinesssecond." We couldn't agree more! 

Read the entire story on News San Diego. 

A "Week in the Life" at Bio-One

The Bio-One team in Tuscon, AZ had a busy week with work ranging from COVID-19 disinfections, mold remediations, bird dropping clean up, medical waste disposal, suicide remediation, and more. 

If you've ever wondered what it takes to be a crime and trauma scene cleaner, we recommend read through the Tuscon team's Weekly Wrap-Up! 

Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaners at Bio-One