For biodecontamination of trauma and crime scenes in NZ, a comprehensive understanding of the principals of biohazards and disinfection is essential…

As each job presents unique challenges, versatility and adaptability is key. The main focus is on on make-safe infection control and final eradication of all pathogens. Other key areas to address are organic load removal/cleaning, odour control and stain removal.

(Adapted from Actichem Resource Guide: Cleanup Guide: Bio-Decontamination of Trauma Cleans)

It is strongly advised that technicians have completed training and/or are familiar with the IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup. This standard and the following guidelines assumes that all scenes have been released by law enforcement or regulatory agencies.

The IICRC-approved Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) course provides training in the proper maintenance and cleaning of trauma and crime scenes. Emphasis is placed on the following topics:

  • Health and safety requirements, including the donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE), and creating a hazard assessment of the area
  • Structural remediation
  • Contents remediation
  • Cleaning and disposal of vehicles and industrial machinery, including lockout/tagout and working with industrial site officers.

Cleaning techniques and equipment will be demonstrated, and laws regarding hazardous waste, transport, storage, and disposal will be discussed. This course will enable the participant to obtain IICRC TCST certification.


Products:

Biosan II

TGA listed (AUST L 332364), fifth generation quaternary ammonium compound based hospital grade disinfectant.

Biosan II has been specifically designed to overcome the challenges of bio-decontamination clean-ups including trauma, unattended death, sewage and flood waters. It is independently verified to effectively eradicate Bacteria, Viruses and Mould/Fungi.

• Dilute: 1:25 (50ml/1Lt)

 

 

Percide

TGA listed (AUST L 332284), potentiated hydrogen peroxide based hospital grade disinfectant, with a boosting option. (Testing is done without use of Percide Boost).

Percide has a ultra – high performance disinfectant/ bio-decontaminant with the advantage of blood, mould & organic stain removal. It is independently verified to effectively eradicate Bacteria, Viruses and Mould/Fungi.

• Ready to Use

 

 

 

Deozyme

A powerful quad-bio enzyme blend which digests rank organics. Deozyme employs the innovative ElimoTech chemistry to permanently neutralise mal-odour molecules from bacteria, rotting organics and bio-contaminants.

• Dilute 1:16 (60ml/1Lt)

 

 


Equipment

The equipment required will vary from job to job. Below is a guide for some of the equipment you might need for decontamination of trauma scenes.

Ensure that you have read and understood the safety data sheet and technical information for all chemical products used. This includes a thorough understanding of directions for use and the limitations and capabilities of each product.


Process Overview

All methods and procedures should be in accordance with the IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup. This includes requirements for PPE, personal safety, containment systems, and documentation.

Initial Make Safe

    1. Apply the Biosan II solution to all affected areas. Ensure all areas and surfaces come into contact with the solution. Application is normally by means of a course spray.
    2. Allow a minimum of 10 minutes dwell time.

 

Wash Down

    1. Remove and clean away all the organic matter and debris, washing down with the Biosan II solution as you go.

 

Discolouration and Stain Removal

    1. Apply Percide to the affected area. Ensure all areas and surfaces come into contact with the solution. Application is best affected by means of spray, wet fog, mop or cloth.
    2. Agitate briefly, wherever possible to promote contact and penetration into porous substrates. Thorough agitation will dramatically aid stain removal.
    3. Allow a minimum of 5-10 minutes dwell time for effective stain removal. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
    4. Repeating this process may be required for heavy stained or mouldy conditions.

 

Percide Boost

For wet fogging application

 

 

 

Odour Neutralisation

    1. Apply the Deozyme solution to a workable area using a sprayer, sponge or scrubber machine. Do not allow solution to dry onto the surface.
    2. Agitate and allow 30 minutes dwell time. Keep moist with solution
    3. Rinse the surface thoroughly using clean water. A high pressure or wet extraction washing system, will provide effective results.
    4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
    5. A 1:100 (10ml/1lt) Deozyme solution can be left as residual on resilient surfaces for further odour removal and re-odourising activity.

Further Information
  • Alternative product: Thymox can be used as an initial make safe and wash down solution. It is a TGA listed Hospital Grade disinfectant with an exceptionally safe and surface friendly profile.
  • Percide: Percide can be used for the entire wash down if desired. And is especially preferred if drug use or/and severe pathogen infection is encountered.

Substrate Compatibility Notes

Biosan II solution, Deozyme and Thymox are safe to use on all water cleanable surfaces.

Percide is mildly acidic and an oxidiser – it is safe to use on all resilient surfaces except it may discolour some acid sensitive surfaces such as concrete and natural stone. If used on fabrics and carpet, Percide must be diluted to 50% strength with water. Always pretest to check for surface chemical sensitivity.


Product Hazard Profile Notes

Biosan II solution, Deozyme and Thymox are non-hazardous in use.

Percide is mildly acidic and an oxidiser – skin contact can cause irritation and eye contact can cause severe burns. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves and goggles. Refer to the sds for further information.


 

Upskill with IICRC TCST & IICRC HST Training

Advance your expertise with industry-recognised training. The IICRC Trauma & Crime Scene Technician (TCST) course and IICRC Health & Safety Technician (HST) certification provide the specialised knowledge, safety practices, and professional standards required for trauma cleanup and crime scene remediation in New Zealand.

Book your place today and boost your career, while gaining the confidence to take on crime scene and biohazard / infection control cleanup projects.

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