Crime scene and biohazard cleanup involves the safe removal and decontamination of dangerous materials in areas impacted by traumatic or hazardous events. It goes far beyond surface cleaning — it requires specialized training, protective equipment, and strict adherence to regulations.
This niche covers:
- Crime scene cleanup: Removal of blood, bodily fluids, fingerprint powder, and contaminated surfaces.
- Unattended death cleanup: Addressing decomposition, biohazards, and strong odors.
- Trauma and accident scenes: Vehicle accidents, industrial injuries, or public incidents.
- Biohazard waste removal: Safe disposal of sharps, chemicals, or hazardous materials.
- Infectious disease decontamination: COVID, MRSA, and other pathogens requiring deep sanitization.
At its core, this work is about making unsafe spaces safe again — for families, communities, and businesses.
🌟 Why This Niche Pays So Well
Few cleaning niches offer the financial stability and profitability of biohazard cleanup. The reasons are clear:
- Few Providers: Most cleaning businesses don’t touch biohazards, keeping competition low.
- High Risk: Exposure to pathogens, trauma, and hazardous materials justifies premium pricing.
- Insurance Coverage: Many jobs are covered under property or liability insurance, meaning clients rarely pay out of pocket.
- Critical Need: These situations cannot be ignored — they require immediate, professional intervention.
This combination of urgency, specialization, and insurance reimbursement makes it one of the highest-paying cleaning niches available.
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🛠️ Equipment & Supplies You’ll Need
Unlike traditional cleaning services, biohazard cleanup requires specialized gear to keep workers safe and comply with regulations.
| Equipment / Supplies | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Full PPE suits | Protects workers from exposure |
| Respirators (P100) | Safeguards against airborne hazards |
| Biohazard waste containers | For regulated disposal of contaminated materials |
| Industrial-grade disinfectants | Kills pathogens and sanitizes surfaces |
| Ozone/odor machines | Removes lingering decomposition odors |
| Steam & HEPA vacuums | Deep sanitization and air quality control |
| Heavy-duty transport vehicle | For moving gear and biohazard waste |
This gear must be replaced and updated regularly to maintain compliance and protect your crew.
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Education and Learning
Here’s a table of places, programs, and certifications where you can learn Crime Scene and Biohazard Cleaning — whether you’re starting a trauma cleanup business or seeking hands-on professional training:
| Organization / Platform | Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) | Professional Certification & Training | The leading certification body for trauma and biohazard cleaning professionals. Offers the Certified BioRecovery Technician (CBRT) credential. | Anyone seeking industry-recognized certification for professional cleanup work. |
| National Institute of Decontamination Specialists (NIDS) | Hands-on Training | Offers in-person and online courses covering crime scene cleanup, meth lab cleanup, hoarding remediation, and biohazard decontamination. | Individuals wanting hands-on experience and business guidance. |
| OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) | Safety Compliance Training | Offers essential Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZWOPER) courses for safety and compliance. | Required training for all cleanup technicians. |
| National Environmental Trainers (NET) | Online Environmental Safety Courses | Provides online OSHA and HAZWOPER certification courses relevant to biohazard cleanup professionals. | Remote learners and new entrants to the industry. |
| Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) | Restoration & Decontamination Training | Teaches cleaning, remediation, and microbial restoration standards — helpful for cross-training in biohazard and trauma environments. | Cleaning professionals expanding into trauma or restoration work. |
| Aftermath Services Training Programs | Employer-Based Training | One of the largest U.S. trauma cleanup companies offering on-the-job training and certification support for new employees. | Job seekers looking for paid training and field experience. |
| Stericycle Training Solutions | Medical Waste & Biohazard Handling | Offers training on medical waste disposal, PPE usage, and exposure control — relevant to biohazard cleaning standards. | Healthcare or environmental service workers seeking crossover skills. |
| Bio-One Franchise Training | Business Ownership & Training | Provides business training for those wanting to start their own crime scene cleanup franchise. | Entrepreneurs and business-minded professionals. |
| Trauma Scene Bio Services Training | Canadian Training Option | Canadian-based trauma and crime scene cleanup training including bloodborne pathogen certification and PPE education. | Learners in Canada or North America. |
| YouTube: CleanNet USA & The Biohazard Guy | Educational Videos | Real-world insights, tutorials, and walkthroughs from professionals in the field. | Beginners exploring before formal training. |
💡 Recommended Learning Path
- Start with OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens & HAZWOPER Training → Learn the legal safety standards.
- Get Certified through ABRA or NIDS → Gain hands-on and industry-recognized credentials.
- Gain Experience → Apply for entry-level jobs or apprenticeships with companies like Aftermath or Bio-One.
- Expand into Business Ownership → Once certified, consider launching your own cleanup business through Bio-One or independent branding.
💡 Business Setup Essentials
Biohazard cleanup is one of the most regulated cleaning services, and your setup must reflect professionalism and safety.
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Business license | Legal compliance |
| Biohazard certification | Required in most states |
| OSHA training (bloodborne pathogens) | Mandatory for worker safety |
| Insurance | High liability coverage is a must |
| 24/7 availability setup | Emergencies can happen anytime |
| Professional branding | Builds trust in a sensitive industry |
Because many calls come in late at night, weekends, or holidays, 24/7 availability is often expected.
💵 Income Stream Potential
Unlike residential cleaning, biohazard cleanup doesn’t rely on volume. A few projects per month can create significant recurring revenue.
| Service Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Small trauma cleanup | Weekly |
| Unattended death cleanup | Monthly |
| Severe crime scene cleanup | Rare but high value |
| Infectious disease cleanup | Ongoing demand |
This mix of services provides steady work while positioning you for large, occasional jobs that significantly boost income.
📊 Difficulty Level & Startup Overview
| Category | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Startup Costs | High | Certifications, PPE, and vehicles required |
| Physical Difficulty | High | Long, physically demanding, and often emotional |
| Skill Level | High | OSHA & biohazard training mandatory |
| Competition | Very Low | Few providers available |
| Income Potential | Very High | Small client base can generate strong income |
The work is emotionally and physically challenging, but the financial rewards are significant, especially with insurance-backed contracts.
❓ Do I Need Certifications?
Yes — certifications are not optional in this industry. They ensure compliance and build trust.
- OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training – Required by law for workers handling biological materials.
- Biohazard Waste Transport License – Varies by state but needed for disposal.
- IICRC Trauma & Crime Scene Cleanup Certification (recommended): Industry-recognized, enhances credibility.
Certifications are the difference between being just another cleaner and being trusted with sensitive, high-stakes work.
🔝 Potential Upsell Opportunities
Even within this sensitive niche, upsells add value for clients while expanding your income.
| Upsell Service | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Odor removal (ozone treatment) | Essential after decomposition or trauma scenes |
| Carpet & floor replacement | Damaged materials often need replacement |
| Structural repair partnerships | Collaborate with contractors for rebuilds |
| Deep sanitizing packages | Ensures full decontamination after trauma |
| Ongoing disinfection contracts | For offices, schools, gyms |
By offering a one-stop solution, you ease client stress and build stronger relationships.
🚀 Marketing Strategies
Marketing in this niche requires discretion, compassion, and professionalism.
- Partner with Police & Coroners
First responders are often the first to recommend cleanup services. - Build Referral Networks with Insurance Companies
Many claims are processed through insurance, making adjusters a key referral source. - Highlight 24/7 Availability
Emergencies don’t wait. Being on-call builds trust. - Use Discreet, Compassionate Branding
Families dealing with trauma want reassurance, not aggressive sales tactics. - Showcase Certifications
Credentials prove your professionalism and justify your rates. - Leverage Wakewall
Listing your services on Wakewall makes you discoverable to landlords, businesses, and families who need emergency assistance quickly.
🌟 How Wakewall Can Help
Wakewall is designed to connect specialized businesses with local demand. For biohazard cleanup companies, it offers:
- Listings: Present your services professionally and discretely.
- Packages: Offer trauma scene + sanitization bundles.
- Reminders: Automate follow-ups for ongoing disinfection contracts.
- Direct Messaging: Private communication with clients who value discretion.
- Reviews: Build credibility in a sensitive, trust-based niche.
By leveraging Wakewall, you can establish yourself as the go-to provider in one of the most critical service industries.
💡 Final Thoughts
Crime scene and biohazard cleanup isn’t just another cleaning business. It’s a critical, high-stakes service that restores safety and dignity to spaces after traumatic events. It requires specialized training, high-quality equipment, and the emotional strength to handle difficult situations with compassion. While emotionally demanding, this niche is one of the most stable and profitable you can enter. With certifications, insurance, and strong marketing, even a handful of jobs per month can establish a six-figure business.
