Bio-One Of NW Indianapolis decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Working in a Biohazard Suit: Challenges and Worker Safety

Introduction

Working in a biohazard suit is a demanding and crucial job, particularly when considering the conditions that arise during the hot summer months. These protective suits are essential for safeguarding workers against hazardous substances, pathogens, and potentially life-threatening situations. However, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the health and safety of their employees who work in such challenging environments. In this blog post, we will explore the conditions of working in a biohazard suit, especially during the summer, and how companies strive to ensure the well-being of their workers.

Dangers of Working in a Biohazard Suit:

Heat Stress

Biohazard suits are designed to create a sealed environment, protecting workers from external threats. Unfortunately, this also means limited ventilation, leading to increased body heat and perspiration. In hot summer temperatures, the risk of heat stress and exhaustion becomes significantly higher. An article by the CDC describes a study that details the heat strain and stress while working in biohazard suits.

Common Question- How Hot Does It Get in a Biohazard Suit?

No matter who you are there will be a temperature increase once you get into a biohazard suit and begin working. This increase will vary from person to person. Studies shown in the National Library of Medicine show that this increase can be between 11 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This would mean that on a hot 90-degree day you will be sitting in temperatures up to 110 degrees for extended periods of time.

Physical Restriction and Stress

Wearing a biohazard suit is very physically demanding. These suits are often heavy, restrictive in movement, and can cause fatigue and muscle strain. The discomfort can be further exacerbated by the heat and humidity during summer. When stepping into a biohazard suit, it is comparable to taking a greenhouse-like environment and containing it to a human-sized space. This can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.

Dehydration

Prolonged use of biohazard suits, combined with high temperatures, can lead to excessive sweating and dehydration. Maintaining hydration levels becomes critical for workers to perform their duties effectively and prevent potential health issues.

How we take care of our technicians:

  1. Training and Education: Bio-One NW Indianapolis provides comprehensive training to educate our techs about the risks associated with working in biohazard suits and how to mitigate them. This includes recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses, proper hydration practices, and regular breaks to prevent exhaustion.
  2. Cooling Systems: To alleviate the effects of heat stress, Bio-One NW Indianapolis invests in cooling systems and technologies designed specifically for workers in biohazard suits. These may include integrated cooling vests, fans, or air conditioning units to maintain a more comfortable working environment.
  3. Hydration Stations: We prioritize the benefits of hydration stations near work areas to ensure easy access to fresh drinking water. Regular reminders and breaks are encouraged to promote hydration and prevent dehydration among workers.
  4. Monitoring Health: We regularly monitor the health of our techs by conducting medical check-ups, especially during the summer months. This aids in spotting early signs of heat-related illnesses or health concerns and ensures prompt actions for their well-being.
  5. Work Schedule Management: Bio-One NW Indianapolis implements modified work schedules during jobs to avoid exposing our techs to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Providing frequent breaks and encouraging rotation among team members can help prevent heat-related illnesses and reduce fatigue.

Conclusion

Working in a biohazard suit during the summer presents unique challenges for the individuals tasked with safeguarding public health and safety. However, Bio-One NW Indianapolis recognizes the importance of prioritizing worker health and safety. By integrating thorough training, cooling, hydration, health monitoring, and enhanced PPE, we can ensure excellent protection and support for workers in demanding environments. The ongoing efforts to enhance work environments and equipment demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of those working tirelessly in biohazard suits, ultimately contributing to a safer and healthier working environment.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to us at any time. We are always here to help.

Bio-One NW Indianapolis

"Help First, Business Second"

24 / 7 / 365

(317) 435-1611

info@BioOneNWIndianapolis.com

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of mental health and well-being. Psychological health is a vital part of the overall strength of someone, though it is often overlooked and stigmatized in our society. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support for those who may be struggling with psychological issues. We, at Bio-One NW Indianapolis, believe in the motto: "Help First, Business Second". We change clients' lives every day. What may seem like an average job for us, is a huge step for a client to take no matter the situation. Our quick response and quick project completion turnover are life-changing; sometimes as little as a week!

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in five adults in the United States experience psychological illness in a given year. Mental illness can take many forms, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among others. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.

What can you do?

Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the illness, and to take action to support those who may be struggling. Here are some ways that you can get involved:

  1. Educate yourself: Learn more about mental health and the different types of illness. Read books, articles, and online resources to expand your knowledge and understanding.
  2. Raise awareness: Use social media to share information and resources about mental health. Encourage friends and family to talk openly about their own experiences with mental illness.
  3. Support those who are struggling: If someone you know is struggling with issues, offer your support and understanding. Listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help if needed.
  4. Take care of your own mental health: Self-care is essential for maintaining good well-being. Additionally, make time for activities that you enjoy, get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation or yoga.
  5. Advocate for better mental health services: Services are often underfunded and understaffed. Advocate for better access to specific services in your community and support organizations that provide those services.
  6. Volunteer for local psychological health organizations

How Bio-One NW Indianapolis can help

Bio-One NW Indianapolis specializes not only in the technical aspect of cleaning, disinfecting, and disinfecting, but also helping our clients along the way. Our owner, Dr. Richard Weinblatt, a retired police chief, has 40+ experience and knows firsthand how helping people solve their problems can change lives. 

Mental Health Awareness Month is an important reminder that it is just as crucial as physical well-being. By raising awareness, reducing the silence, and providing support, we can help those who are struggling with issues to get the help they need and deserve.

If you have any questions you can reach out to us at any time. We are always here to help.

Bio-One NW Indianapolis

"Help First, Business Second"

24 / 7 / 365

(317) 435-1611

info@BioOneNWIndianapolis.com

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 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.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

On August 3, Bio-One teams participated in their local National Night Out, an annual crime prevention event and community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships.

Check out these National Night Out Facebook posts from Bio-One teams in Marion County and Des Moines!

U.S. POLICE AND FIRE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Bio-One was the Presenting Sponsor of the 2021 U.S. Police and Fire Championships and we were thrilled to meet first responders all over the U.S. To see the action, scroll through our Bio-One Inc Instagram Highlights

Here's a sneak peek! 

U.S. Police and Fire Championships Presenting Sponsor
FDNY Barbell Club at the U.S. Police and Fire Championships
Family enjoying props at the Bio-One booth at the U.S. Police and Fire Championships
U.S. Police and Fire Championships Cornhole Boards
Bio-One President Brian Brinegar Speaking During the Athlete's Reception

IN THE NEWS

In case you missed it, Bio-One has been in the news! Here's the latest from Franchise Times and The Denver Gazette

Bio-One, Inc to Partner with Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund in Honoring American Law Enforcement. Commitment includes corporate partnership and support of future exhibits.

Bio-One, Inc., America’s first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, has partnered with the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund to contribute to its mission in honoring American Law Enforcement. 

Bio-One Inc. operates in 41 states with over 100 locations and is committed to providing service in suicide and homicide clean up, hoarding remediation, homeless encampment clean-up, urine and feces removal, and more. With the motto, Help First, Business Second, Bio-One provides high-level decontamination and biohazard cleanup services while offering clients the privacy and compassion needed at difficult times.

“Bio-One has always been an avid supporter of first responders and the decision to align ourselves with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was second nature,” said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One Inc. “As last responders, Bio-One works closely with law enforcement officers across the country to serve community members in their greatest time of need. We value their relentless dedication and sacrifices to support the community, and it’s our honor to support the history and the future of law enforcement.”

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund built and continues to maintain the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial – the nation’s monument to law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The Museum tells the story of American law enforcement through exhibits, collections, research and education.

“We are so thankful for Bio-One’s corporate partnership and their continued support of the Memorial Fund,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. “This partnership will further bolster the Memorial Fund’s mission of honoring America’s Law Enforcement, as well as provide support for the Museum’s upcoming exhibition opening in September. We are grateful for their commitment.” 

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Nick-Anthony Zamucen Quote National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Partnership
Bio-One National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Silver Partnership

About the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The Memorial Fund maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which honors the names of all of the 22,611 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history.  


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

Bio-One has been included in the annual FranServe Inc. FRAN-TASTIC 500, which recognizes brands going above and beyond the norm and helping people fulfill their dreams of business ownership through franchising.

“Franchising is a way for many people to be an entrepreneur and be their own boss. A brand that makes our annual 'FRAN-TASTIC 500' list demonstrates that it goes above and beyond the norm in helping people fulfill their dreams of business ownership through franchising!  It’s a brand that sets itself apart!” - Alesia Visconti, CEO of FranServe Inc.

Franchises were selected based on strengths in the following categories:

  • Brand identity
  • Turnkey model
  • Operational support
  • Supurb training
  • Industry leader
  • Scalability
  • Quick to launch
  • Clear marketing message

We greatly appreciate the recognition from FranServe. At Bio-One, our goal is to build a thriving community of franchise owners through robust training and support program, systems and tools. 

Learn more about Bio-One's award winning team and how you can join! 

As the largest franchise consulting and expansion organization in the world, FranServe connects entrepreneurs to franchise opportunities, introduce franchisors to qualified people, and train the industry’s most knowledgeable consultants to make it all happen.


Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 6 Crime and Trauma Scene Cleaning COVID-19 Disinfection

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 6 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Cherokee County Biohazard Remediation 

Lives in the Atlanta area were forever altered on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 after a shooting spree at three metro Atlanta spas left eight people, including six Asian women, dead within the span of 45 minutes. 

Our hearts and sympathies are with everyone impacted by this tragedy.  

Two weeks after the tragic events in Atlanta took place, Bio-One answered the call to remediate the spa in Cherokee County. Led by Michele O'Brien and Rebecca Phillips, the Bio-One team provided a quick response and thorough decontamination. Read more in our recent blog post. 

Bio-One Cherokee County Massage Parlor Biohazard Remediation

Tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina

As details from the tragedy in Rock Hill, South Carolina unfold, one Bio-One team paid special tribute to the victims, first responders and other local law enforcement officials. Bio-One owners, John and Jen Symons, live in Rock Hill and experienced the police response first-hand. "It's a tight-knit community. We just can't believe it," said Jen Symons. 

Their team is currently in communication with local law enforcement, and activity supporting neighbors through this difficult time. 

COVID-19 Disinfection at Dojo

This week, we're spotlighting the Atlantic City team where they are regularly disinfecting Ganguly's Mixed Martial Arts. According to Bio-One owner, Victor Russomanno, "We are contracted with a local martial arts studio to disinfect them weekly. In addition to their in-house protocol, we use an electrostatic sprayer to ensure maximum coverage and protection, to ensure those who are training are staying safe through our efforts."

Across the United States, Bio-One teams actively disinfect local businesses, government buildings, and residents in the fight against coronavirus. Learn more about our COVID-19 disinfection process. 

Serial entrepreneur, Nick-Anthony Zamucen, was listed 18th in the Top 100 Global Influencers in Franchising for his success as founder of Bio-One Inc. and Best Option Restoration (B.O.R.). Curated by SeoSamba and 1851 Franchise, the list is comprised of the most influential characters in the franchise world. On 1851Franchise.com, Nick Powills, 1851 publisher, introduced the Top 100 Global Influencers in Franchising list by stating:

Nick-Anthony Zamucen Bio-One and Best Option Restoration Founder

Whether buying a franchise, franchising your business, growing your franchise or looking for general information on franchising, tapping into the franchise world’s thriving community is vital to your journey. So, with the help of SeoSamba we’ve curated a list of the most influential people in franchising No, these are not rankings, simply our collection of 100 influencers you should know, and frankly, who you should be connected to (good thing we’ve provided their LinkedIn links).

“In this competitive landscape, you’ve got to give more than you take. Adding value to each person you come into contact with is the only way to consistently win” said Zamucen. “People won’t always remember your name, or what you’ve done, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” 

A four-times published author and business strategist, Zamucen previously received Top 40 CEO's Under 40 from Business Diversity Magazine in 2013.

About Bio-One Inc.

bioonenwindianapolis.com

Founded in 2007, Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, hoarding situations, junk removal, deceased animal recovery, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and much more. Each office is independently owned and operated by a member of the local community.

  • Bio-One Inc. is the first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise.
  • The number of Bio-One franchises have increased 145% in the last 3 years with over 100 locations in 41 states.
  • In 2021, Bio-One was ranked number one in Crime Scene Cleaning and Trauma Scene Cleaning in Entrepreneur Magazine's 42nd Franchise 500, and at number 241 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power. This is the fourth year in a row that Bio-One has been included in the ranking.
  • FranchiseRankings.com listed Bio-One Inc. as a Best Franchise Opportunity in February 2021.
  • Bio-One has been called to remediate a number of mass shooting tragedies including Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay, Pulse Nightclub, the San Bernardino schools and Sandy Hook.

About Best Option Restoration (B.O.R.)

BORestoration.com

Founded in 2015, B.O.R. is committed to helping those in need after a disaster. Our experienced team has the knowledge and equipment necessary to make sure that we leave every home as it was before the incident or often referred as "pre-loss" condition. Our crews receive extensive training from the best in the industry and follow all IICRC s500 standards. We require all of our technicians to be trained, certified and insured so our valuable customers can breathe easy once we arrive on site.

  • B.O.R. uses thermal drying strategies that remediate scenes in literally half the time. What normally takes an average restoration company 7-10 days to complete, BOR is done in 3-4 days, tops.
  • There are 17 franchises located in NV, SC, NC, CO, FL, OH, KY.

Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up Week 4 Hoarding Trauma Scene Back the Blue

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 5 of our Bio-One Weekly Wrap-Up. 

Chocolate Spill Makes for a Sweet Cleanup

In Scranton on March 25, Juan and Nicole Morales received a call for a "chocolate" cleanup. Assuming this was code for a sewage back-up, they rushed to scene to find a different situation entirely. Approximately 100 gallons of milk chocolate had spilled, covering asphalt outside a local business.

This is certainly the sweetest smelling job a Bio-One office has ever taken, but Nicole clarified, "That smell was nice for the first few minutes but at the end I felt sick. Good thing we had an awesome team that pushed through and got this done!" 

After scraping the chocolate with a forklift and pressure washing the area, the Bio-One team received a five-star review. Well done!  

Bio-One Milk Chocolate Spill Review
Bio-One Milk Chocolate Spill Before and After

Behind the Scenes with Citizen's Academy

Many Bio-One owners sign up for their local Citizen's Police Academy to acquaint themselves with the activities of their local police department. This week, Bio-One owner, Ginger Akemon, in Jacksonville, FL earned her Citizen's Police Academy certificate from the Clay County Sheriff's Office

"Definitely a learning process. Each County has their own, my goal is to go to each county's classes. This was 10 weeks long and over an hour drive each way, but well worth it, " said Ginger. 

Hoarding Transformation in Long Beach

In Long Beach, the Bio-One team has been working hard on several hoarding projects. These before and after pictures show the detail and expertise our teams bring to each job.