Introduction
Unattended deaths occur when an individual passes on in isolation, or a hard-to-access location and the body remains undiscovered for quite some time.
The discovery of an unattended death in a home or community is traumatic. Still, the immediate concern is to contain any potential hazards to the health of the living before and during the clean-up process.
Health Hazards of Unattended Deaths
Bloodborne Pathogens
These are the most critical among the known hazards in an unattended death cleanup. Most dangerous pathogens are viruses, and these can survive days after a person has died. (This explains why there is an immediate need for the cremation or burial of those who have died of COVID-19.) Improper cleaning and handling of remains can leave these pathogens behind, putting other people in danger.
Nausea and Discomfort
Noxious Odours are released as a dead body decomposes. While these may not precisely be due to disease-causing bacteria, the stench can cause nausea and discomfort to those within the immediate vicinity.
Pathogens from Pests
Pests such as blowflies open the possibility of cross-contamination as these can take pathogens from the death site to other areas if not properly exterminated. Likewise, clean-up crews also need to deal with the possibility of parasites which might get into the area’s water supply and cause illness in a community.
Contamination from Putrefaction
Putrefaction residue, the sludge that occurs as a body decomposes, can ooze into permeable materials such as fabric, wood, and concrete. If this residue is not cleaned, potential contaminants remain and cause damage. In cases where the family of the deceased would like to sell the home or if the property is due for either sale or redevelopment, improperly cleaned areas may affect its resale value.
Emotional Trauma is the first thing that people need to deal with in those who have encountered an unattended death. The potential for lasting trauma can be minimised or mitigated if the person avails of counselling services handled by qualified mental health professionals.
Seek a Competent Unattended Death Cleanup Service
Prevent needless contamination and minimise the pain and trauma from a loved one’s death. We at Kleen Slate Services offer compassionate and professional unattended death cleanup services in Perth. Call us at 0424 784 593 or email us at info@kleenslate.com.au.
