Behind the Scenes of Biohazard Cleanup with Mitigation Technician Mariano 

Biohazard cleanup is one of the most intricate and essential services we provide at PuroClean of Central Southwest Houston. I’m Mariano DeAguinaco, a certified mitigation technician specializing in biohazard remediation, and I’d like to give you a closer look at what it’s like to handle these challenging yet rewarding jobs.

Walking Into a Biohazard Scene as a Mitigation Technician 

When I step into a biohazard site, I know I’m entering a potentially hazardous environment. These situations often involve exposure to bodily fluids, unknown pathogens, and other biological contaminants. Every job is unique, but one thing remains constant: the need to follow strict protocols.

Safety is the top priority. My role isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about protecting myself, my team, and the property owners who will eventually return to the space. Adhering to guidelines ensures we minimize risks while delivering results that give our clients peace of mind.

Biohazard jobs come with a significant level of responsibility. Mistakes can have serious consequences, so I approach each job with professionalism, precision, and compassion.

Why Biohazard Cleanup Requires an Expert

Biohazard cleanup isn’t something you can handle with basic cleaning supplies. It’s not just about making a space look clean; it’s about ensuring it’s truly safe. Pathogens can linger on surfaces, even after they appear spotless. Without proper tools, techniques, and EPA-certified products, you’re leaving yourself—and anyone who enters the space—vulnerable to serious health risks. It’s critical to wear personal protective equipment when addressing the scene of a biohazard cleanup.

At PuroClean of Central Southwest Houston, we go beyond the surface. We disinfect and sanitize to hospital-grade standards. Using advanced equipment like HEPA-filter vacuums and air scrubbers, we remove 99.7% of microscopic particles, including those smaller than 0.3 microns (Environmental Protection Agency). 

After the cleaning process, we take surface samples to confirm all biohazards have been effectively eliminated. This level of detail ensures that the environment is safe for everyone.

The Five Levels of Biohazard Risk

Not all biohazard situations are the same. We categorize them into five risk levels, depending on the severity and type of contaminants. These can include:

• Bloodborne Pathogens: Fluids that may carry infectious diseases.
• Bodily Fluids: Situations that involve vomit, urine, or feces.
• Decomposition Cleanup: Addressing spaces where decomposition has occurred.
• Drug Cleanup: Situations involving hazardous substances like fentanyl.
• Unidentified Contaminants: Materials whose origins are uncertain, requiring extra caution.

Every job is treated with the utmost seriousness, as even the smallest oversight can have major implications.

Specialized Equipment and Products

For biohazard cleanup, we rely on advanced tools and certified products designed to meet the highest safety standards. Some of the key equipment includes:

• HEPA Vacuums: These capture microscopic particles smaller than 0.3 microns, ensuring thorough removal of contaminants invisible to the naked eye.
• Air Scrubbers and Purifiers: These clean the air in the affected space, removing airborne pathogens and improving overall air quality.
• EPA-Certified Disinfectants: We use hospital-grade products to disinfect surfaces, ensuring they are free from harmful pathogens.
• Protective Personal Equipment (PPE): From gloves to full-body suits and respirators, PPE is essential for protecting technicians from exposure.

These tools and products allow us to deliver comprehensive cleaning and disinfection that you simply can’t achieve with DIY methods.

The Importance of Training and Certification

When I started in biohazard cleanup, I underwent extensive training to prepare for the challenges of this specialized work. I completed my courses in Tamarac, FL, under the guidance of Jeff Jones, a biohazard expert with years of experience.

In addition to biohazard remediation, I’m a certified mitigation technician in fentanyl cleanup, water mitigation, fire restoration, and mold remediation. This training ensures that I approach every job with a thorough understanding of the risks and the knowledge needed to perform each task safely.

Compassion at the Core of the Job

Biohazard cleanup isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about helping people through some of the most challenging times in their lives. Many of the situations I respond to are emotionally charged, whether it’s a traumatic event, the aftermath of a crime, or an accident.

My goal is always to treat clients with compassion and respect. I understand the stress they’re under, and I aim to ease their burden by handling the situation professionally and sensitively. At the end of the day, seeing a client relieved and grateful is the most rewarding part of my job.

Why DIY Cleanup Isn’t Safe

One of the most common questions I get is, “Why can’t I just handle this myself?”

The truth is that biohazard cleanup requires far more than surface cleaning. While a space might look clean, invisible contaminants can remain. Without the right tools, such as HEPA filters and EPA-certified disinfectants, and without proper training, you risk exposing yourself and others to serious health hazards.

By hiring a professional service like PuroClean of Central Southwest Houston, you ensure that the job is done correctly. We provide thorough, detail-oriented remediation that leaves no room for doubt about your safety.

A Word of Advice

I often tell our customers that investing in professional biohazard cleanup is an investment in their health and safety. These jobs are not just about the here and now; they’re about preventing future risks. After all, your health—and the health of your family—is priceless.

If you’re dealing with a biohazard situation, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Trying to handle it on your own could lead to greater risks down the line.

Why Choose PuroClean of Central Southwest Houston

At PuroClean of Central Southwest Houston, we combine advanced training, cutting-edge equipment, and a deep commitment to customer care. If you’re facing a biohazard situation, trust Mariano DeAguinaco and our biohazard mitigation technician team to handle it with professionalism, expertise, and compassion. Call us at (832) 856-5900 for 24/7 service today.