Our Spokane-Based Biohazard Cleanup Company Attends First Responder Conference

As a Pacific Northwest biohazard remediation and cleanup company serving various communities in Washington state as well as surrounding areas in Oregon and Idaho, often our work involves working directly with first responders such as law enforcement, paramedics, and others. Our industry and their particular fields involves a lot of stress, and it’s crucial for them to maintain a high level of self-care so that they can best serve the public. That’s one reason we choose to get involved with meetings that focus on just that. Recently we had the privilege of attending a First Responder Conference in Spokane. This event was co-hosted by the Spokane Police Department and the Spokane Police Chaplaincy.

Because of the high level of stress involved in first responder fields, those such as fire fighters, police officers, and paramedics have a higher-than-average rate of suicide. Some reports indicate more first responders die of suicide than in the line of duty. Suicide rates are especially heightened during the pandemic, as occurs during any prolonged period of emergency, disasters, and other crises. A condition known as Major Depressive Disorder is common. Because of this, doing what we can to support their overall mental and physical health is highly needed. And we can tell you, as a company often called in following suicides, our hope is that we don’t get ONE call that involves a first responder. We’d rather be at their side helping out with other trauma recovery.

As a side note, in January we also had the privilege of hosting the annual appreciation dinner for the Spokane Police Chaplaincy.

What Is a First Responder Conference?

First Responder Conferences are events that occur all across the country. The organization’s aim is to provide “health and wellness training for everyday heroes.” In their words, here’s a brief description of the conferences:

1st Responder Conferences is committed to the emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of the public safety work force and work with leaders in the public safety profession to make this possible.  We recognize that first responders are our greatest asset and we feel it is our responsibility to create a climate that supports good health and resiliency. 

We are dedicated to promoting awareness at our conferences surrounding the difficulties of the profession and inspiring conversations that minimize the stigma associated with the stresses our first responder’s experience. We provide education, mental health tools and resources for agencies, individuals, and family members.  Our mission is to improve the quality of life for all who dedicate themselves to protecting and serving others.

(To find out more about First Responder Conferences, visit their website.)

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Our Spokane Area Biohazard/Hazmat Cleanup Company Is Now Hiring

We are a hazmat cleaning and biohazard remediation company now hiring in our Eastern Washington locations, particularly the greater Spokane area. Open positions are on an on-call/will call basis, so we cannot guarantee any amount of hours. But this is a great job for a person looking for some additional income and who has a somewhat flexible schedule. We take calls and respond 24/7, and we need people who can be available on short notice.

Military, police, fire fighters, and medical personnel are welcome. Also helpful would be construction or janitorial experience. Training or experience in hazardous waste cleanup is a plus but is not required; we will train interested individuals.

Warning: Often our cleanup services include coming in to help a family recover physically and emotionally following a violent crime or suicide or other unexpected death. Our team members often face situations that can be hard to handle from an emotional standpoint, so the ideal person for this job would be one who can cope in the face of hard situations but is compassionate. Those who use our services are often experiencing one of the most difficult times in their lives, and our first concern is care for them. We expect our team members to conduct themselves with dignity and professionalism but have empathy for our customers.

BioHazard Cleanup Services Team MedTech Cleaners
MedTech Cleaners Biohazard Cleanup Team: Join Us!

Job qualifications:

  • In good physical shape – jobs can be strenuous at times
  • Hard working and have the ability to multi-task
  • Available evenings and weekends (although not all jobs are at these hours)
  • Able to handle yourself in situations that may be emotionally challenging
  • Must be age 18 or older, have reliable transportation, and a valid driver’s license
  • Be able to pass a background check and drug testing

Pay rate: Pay is hourly, $18 to $20, starting pay depending on experience

To apply, please send a resume with contact information to: [email protected]

Appropriate protective gear is provided. Our protocols meet or exceed COVID-safe requirements and recommendations. We look forward to hearing from you!



Thank you, we look forward to talking with you.

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Biohazard and Virus Cleanup: When Disinfecting, It’s Important to Read and Follow Label Directions

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The EPA just announced it has approved two Lysol spray disinfectants as effective against the COVID-19 virus (technically SARS-CoV-2). The announcement indicates the sprays will kill the virus when sprayed on hard surfaces that are not porous. (This excludes cloth surfaces, carpet, furniture, etc.).  According to the EPA – which lists over 400 products on its list as effective against what they term ‘harder to kill’ microorganisms, these two are the first to be tested against this particular virus and shown to be effective.  They are:

  • Lysol Disinfectant Spray
  • Lysol Disinfectant Max Cover Mist

This video from ABC7 news shares the information:

 

But there is a catch – spray and wipe won’t do it.  Disinfecting is a different process than cleaning, and you need to use different techniques. We’re used to spraying and then immediately wiping when cleaning, but using that method for disinfecting simply wastes the product and does not disinfect.  (Most disinfectants need to remain wet on a surface for an extended period – usually about 2 or three minutes.)

With these Lysol sprays, it takes 2 minutes to be effective, which means that the surface sprayed needs to remain wet the the product for at least 2 minutes. We want to point out that use of these disinfectant sprays – as well as any other disinfectant product – will only achieve the desired results when the instructions on the label are followed. 

As a bio-hazard cleanup and remediation company, we understand the importance of reading and following label directions for any products we use, regardless of whether they are for cleaning or disinfecting.  If you have questions about COVID-19 approved cleaners and disinfectants and how to use them, we encourage you to visit the EPA website.

MedTech Cleaners is currently offering COVID-19 cleanup and disinfecting in a number of areas of the Pacific Northwest, specifically in the greater Spokane and Seattle areas, but we also have other locations in Idaho, Oregon, and Montana.  To find out if we cover your area, please callus at (877) 691-6706.  Our phone is answered 24/7. 

 

 

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Our Bio-Hazard & Trauma Cleanup Company Staff Attends Recent First Responders Conference in Spokane

Lisa Riddle and Lesli Martin of MedTech (photo courtesy of First Responder Conferences)

As a bio-hazard and trauma remediation company, a big part of what we do involves working in conjunction with first responders. But we recently had the opportunity to shift things a little – concentrating on care for first responders. MedTech staff members Lisa Riddle and Lesli Martin recently attended a two-day First Responders Conference in Spokane.

First Responders Conferences was launched in 2016 by Seattle police deputy Shawn Thomas with encouragement from her peer support officer.  The initial conference – and those which followed – focus on the mental health and wellness of first responders.  The main purpose is to save lives of those who are usually first on the scene in an accident, violent crime, or other trauma.  Mental health in this field is crucial, because first responders have a rate of suicide that’s at least five times that of the general population.

MedTech was on hand to share information about the services we provide as well as participate in the training. Said Lesli, “We are so aware of how much first responders do to help people in traumatic situations, so to be able to participate in an event that provides training and support for their own well-being is very gratifying.  We’re thankful that an organization like this exists, and we’re proud to be able to be a part of it.”

First Responder Conferences are held around the entire U.S.  This is the first event that MedTech has attended, but we expect it won’t be the last.

 

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Suicide Prevention News: Bi-Partisan Bill Would Promote Mental Health Resources for College Students

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Suicide remains the second leading cause of death* for young people, and the threat is especially significant for college students.  The college experience is of itself a stressful time for most. It represents a major shift in lifestyle, going from having one’s routine basically structured to having to take responsibility for your own activities.  And for many college students, it also involves moving away from friends and family.

  • According to American College Health Association’s Fall 2018 National College Health Assessment, nearly two-thirds of students reported feeling anxious in the past year. 
  • Other studies indicate that about one in ten in that age group have had suicidal thoughts. 

In an effort to promote mental health resources and combat this troubling trend, a bi-partisan coalition of U.S. Senators and Representatives has sponsored a bill known as HR 3912/ S. 1782: Improving Mental Health Access for Students Act. This pending legislation was introduced in Congress this past June by sponsor Sen. John Kennedy (R-Lousiana) and co-sponsors Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas). In a time when there is a deep divide between the political parties, it is encouraging to see both sides come together to propose legislation that may offer hope for those who are suffering from anxiety and depression that can result in suicide.

What is startling is that despite the prevalence of suicide among college students, it is projected that this bill only has a 3% chance of being enacted!

There are over 20 million students on college and university campuses across the U.S., so the potential for impact of this proposed legislation is enormous.  It would require educational institutions to print information on three important mental health help lines on all college IDs:

As a company that provides cleanup and trauma services following suicide, we are committed to doing what we can to address the issue and reduce the incidence.  We urge you to contact your respective congressional members to express your support of this legislation that has very little cost associated with it but has the potential to save lives. You can easily do so through this link.

*Note: The top cause of death in this age group unintentional injury/homicide

 

 

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The Health Threats Posed by Raw Sewage

Recent news of a raw sewage spill near the Bremerton naval shipyard has Puget Sound residents in western Washington concerned, as well they should be. A sewage spill of any sort is concerning, but even more so when it is raw – rather than treated – sewage. Raw sewage contains quite a number of microorganisms that pose significant health threats.

The public has been warned to avoid any sort of direct skin contact with the contaminated water. Shellfish harvesting is permanently prohibited in the affected area, but people should NOT consume any fish taken from the affected water.

Sewage contains a number of biohazards, depending on the source.  But the biggest health threat is caused by fecal matter.  Feces is a breeding ground for a number of microorganisms that can cause severe health problems, some of which can be fatal.  But there are other possible biohazards in untreated sewage as well.

Here are some raw sewage facts:

  • Approximately 7 million people become exposed to raw sewage each year
  • Of those, about 7% (or 49,000) develop a severe or fatal illness as a result of the exposure

The most common contaminants in raw sewage are viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

  • Viruses include: Norwalk virus, gastroenteritis (commonly referred to as stomach flu, a misnomer), Hepatitis A, poliomyelitis, and adenovirus
  • Bacterias include: e. coli, salmonella, shigella (responsible for dysentery), campylobacter, and leptospyria
  • Parasites include: giardia and cryptosporidium

People usually associate salmonella and e.coli with food, but these organisms also thrive in raw sewage.

Many of these conditions can produce just mild symptoms of abdominal distress, muscle aches, and headaches. However, some can cause permanent damage (like poliomyelitis, which can result in permanent paralysis) be fatal if left untreated.  Untreated e. coli infections can cause kidney failure, resulting in death.  Several of these toxic organisms can cause bloody diarrhea leading to severe dehydration.

Finally, dirty waters produced by a raw sewage spill often result in mold growth in as little as 48 hours.  This is especially common after an area has sustained a flood.  The presence of mold can cause severe health threats as well.

While we can’t do anything about cleaning up the Puget Sound waters contaminated with this raw sewage spill, we wanted our readers to be very aware of the health dangers posed by contact with this -or any other – raw sewage.  Often our biohazard cleanup projects involve human waste, a major component in raw sewage. We exercise extreme caution in decontaminating and restoring a property affected by human waste and/or raw sewage. 

 

 

 

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VIDEO: About Our Washington State Area Biohazard Cleanup Company

MedTech Cleaners provides biohazard and trauma cleanup services in the greater Seattle and Spokane areas, including surrounding communities in the Pacific Northwest. Who are we and what exactly do we do?

You could click through the pages on our website to find out more, but we thought it might be easier to give you an overview of our company and our services in this short video.

If you’ve got questions or a need we can help with, please contact us. We’re available by phone 24/7, each and every day of the year. You can call us at
1-877-652-9984, or use our online contact form.

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Supporting Washington State Patrol “Shop with a Cop”: Just One Way Our Biohazard Cleaning Company Gives Back Locally

Young girl on shopping trip with Washington State Trooper in Shop with a Cop program

At our Spokane-based biohazard and trauma cleanup company, we do a lot more than cleaning. Giving back where we can is also part of our mission. We recognize that in spite of the industry we are a part of, that often deals with the more negative aspects of life, there are good things we have the opportunity to get involved with.  We are very thankful for all we have, and when we find the chance to give back in a manner that can have an impact on our local area, we do. 

One program we have chosen to support year after year is the “Shop with a Cop” program through the Washington State Troopers Association.  “Shop with a Cop” is a nationwide movement that partners children from low income families  with local law enforcement and other first responder entities such as police departments and state patrols as well as fire fighters. 

For us, this program is a natural fit.  We’ve been serving Washington State law enforcement agencies for over 25 years as crime scene cleanup professionals, so it’s nice to be able to do something more positive for those who do so much to protect our communities. 

Since we serve a number of areas around Washington State, we’ve decided to donate to the State Patrol rather than any particular city unit.  And year after year we feel so gratified when we see the pictures and videos of these excited kids going out with their first responder buddy shoppers to choose something special for themselves.  The gifts are then purchased by the law enforcement shoppers and wrapped.  (The stores selected for the shopping events usually donate the wrapping materials and services.) 

If you’d like to help with funding a  “Shop with a Cop” event, check with your local law enforcement or fire fighting agency to see what’s available.

Shown on this page are photos from recent shopping trips (photos courtesy of NewsRadio 560KPQ).


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How Do You Choose a Biohazard, Trauma, or Crime Scene Cleanup Company?

If you own a property here in the Pacific Northwest, chances are that sooner or later you are going to need the help of a biohazard cleanup company. Now, that term might be a little restrictive, because usually companies like ours offer a lot more than professional cleaning services, and at times it is broader than just the term ‘biohazard.’ For example, these are just a few of the services we provide:

  • Crime scene or other trauma cleanup
  • Cleanup after a suicide, accidental or unattended death
  • Homeless encampments and squatter occupation
  • Decontamination from biological substances that can pose a health threat – blood and other bodily fluids, drug paraphernalia, trash, rodent infestation, and more

The first time you have a need for services like this, you’ll probably start with an internet search. And you’ll find there are lots of companies that provide them. So just how do you choose? Sure, ratings are helpful, but they aren’t always reliable.

When you’re working with a company to deal with any kind of hazardous containment and cleanup, of course it’s important that they are professional and experienced in what they do.  But because this is likely a stressful time for you, it’s also important to know that whoever you choose to work with will support and assist you through all the stages you’ll face.

Here are some considerations and why we believe we’re the company you should work with.

  • We are a family-owned business, and because of that we can often relate to what you’re going through. That means you’ll find a sympathetic and supportive ear.  Compassionate care for each person we deal with is our standard. 
  • Our technicians are highly trained. experienced and professional, but they are also kind, respectful, and caring. We realize this is probably a difficult time, so we endeavor to be as supportive as possible.
  • We are fully licensed, bonded and insured in each of the areas we service.
  • Our containment, cleaning, decontamination, and disposal methods meet or exceed industry and governmental standards.
  • We man our phones 24/7, each and every day of the year – no answering service, no answering machine, no options to click through to leave a message. A live person will answer your call whenever you call.
  • We don’t stop with containment and cleanup. Yes, getting the area decontaminated and cleaned is important, but you need to be able to recover as well.  Whatever damage was caused, we have a network of subcontractors to get your property restored as well. 
  • We work with the insurance company involved, and we’ll cover your deductible, up to $1,000 for a family.  We’ll make sure you get all the coverage you are entitled to.
  • Counseling services are available.  We know it’s important to get your property back in shape, but we’re also concerned about how YOU recover as well. We have certified crisis counselors available to help you get through this.

You shouldn’t have to go through recovery from an accident or trauma alone. We’re here to help when you need it most.

 

 

 

 

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Another Death from a Bacterial Infection Incurred During Post-Disaster Cleanup

It seems as the weeks go on, news reports surface of the dangers of yet another bacterial strain.  The latest is the death of a man who was cleaning up his North Carolina yard following Hurricane Florence.  Apparently the man sustained some scrapes or cuts in the cleanup process, which resulted in an infection. Heroic efforts were made to treat the infection, including amputation of his affected leg, but sadly he succumbed to the affliction and died.  (Click here to read the news article.)

And while here in Washington State we are not in danger of hurricane-related problems, it does raise the issue of just how dangerous exposure to bacteria can be.  Some bacteria can be inhaled, others are ingested, but the most common bacterial infections result in the same way this one did – from cuts or scrapes.  Bacteria then enter the bloodstream directly.  And while some are relatively harmless or slow-acting, others – like this one – spread quickly and are often fatal.

A second complicating factor here is the spread of contaminants via floodwaters, in this case from a severe tropical storm.  But water-borne bacteria can occur from such things as a septic system backup, a sewer main break, or even substantial rainfall that causes brief flooding.

As a biohazard cleanup company, we cannot over-stress the importance of wearing proper protective clothing when doing any type of cleanup where there is the slightest possibility of exposure to bacteria and other toxins.

When you are doing cleanup of a property, NEVER assume the contents are safe to deal with.  Pathogens are often unseen, and in a moment you can become exposed to something that can threaten your life. Instead, ALWAYS assume it is contaminated with toxins and act accordingly.  The safest (and wisest) thing may be to hire a toxic substance cleanup company like ours to handle things.

Our biohazard cleanup teams have been trained in the safe handling of potentially toxic substances, where protective gear, and follow set protocols for disposal of debris. If you’re faced with cleanup of your property following damage from water that may have been contaminated, please give us a call.  We offer biohazard cleanup and damage restoration services in the State of Washington and surrounding Pacific Northwest areas.

 

 

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