Crime Scene Cleanup Training and Certification (Educational Requirement and Qualification Required)

Truth be told, there are vital steps that must be taken before you can claim you are legally trained and certified to be a crime scene cleanup expert.

While the steps, as well as the process, will vary from one state to another, note that it will include a mix of education, specialized training, hands-on experience, as well as compliance with stipulated regulations.

Crime scene cleanup, also referred to as biohazard remediation, is not an endeavor to take on if you do not have the appropriate training to understand what the job entails as well as the importance of conforming to safety protocols.

Step By Step Process of Getting a Crime Scene Cleanup Training and Certification

1. Research State-Specific Requirements

You would want to take your time to find out all you can regarding the exact requirements for crime scene cleanup professionals in your state. It is important to point out that these regulations tend to vary from one state to another.

As such, it is important to take this first step seriously. You can reach out to your state health departments or environmental agencies to obtain this information.

2. Enroll in a Crime Scene Cleanup Training Program

You must take your time to find training programs offered by accredited institutions or organizations noted by the industry, like the American BioRecovery Association (ABRA). This is a very vital requirement for anyone looking to be a crime scene cleaning technician or run a similar business.

3. Gain Hands-On Experience

You will be expected to apply for internships or apprenticeship opportunities. Keep in mind that the essence of these opportunities is to ensure you obtain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships with crime scene cleanup companies.

Note that a good number of companies provide on-the-job training for new hires, ensuring they can obtain real-world experience.

4. Meet Licensing Requirements

This will depend on your location or the state you intend to start or offer your crime scene cleanup services. If you check and it is required by your state, then you must apply for the required licenses. In most places, this will entail sending in proof of training and certifications as well as scaling through a state exam.

Educational and Qualification Requirements for Crime Scene Cleanup

1. Basic Education

In the United States, this is considered the very foundation of a career in crime scene cleanup. Keep in mind that to become a crime scene cleanup technician or business owner, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED.

The essence of this particular qualification is to be certain you possess the requisite skills to carry out other necessary specialized training.

2. Higher Education (Optional but Beneficial)

Although not considered compulsory, it is important to note that higher education will provide you with the necessary edge you need to attain success in the crime scene cleanup industry.

Consider focusing on fields like biology, chemistry, or environmental science to be certain you possess an in-depth understanding of the biohazards you’ll be dealing with.

3. Specialized Training

Specialized training is considered very essential, especially for those who intend to handle the demands that come with crime scene cleanup.

Be sure to register with a verifiable and well-known program that covers very important areas such as blood-borne pathogens, the appropriate use of PPEs, biohazardous waste disposal, decontamination techniques, as well legal/ethical considerations.

Keep in mind that the primary objective of this training is to ensure you are fully fitted with the requisite knowledge and skills for the job.

4. Certifications

You also need to obtain the right certification if you intend to offer your services in such a delicate industry. Note that this works to prove that you are in line with industry standards and legal requirements.

• Bloodborne Pathogens Certification

This will certify that you are properly equipped to handle blood-borne pathogens. Although it is most often required by OSHA, note that it is still very important to ensure you can safely deal with biological hazards.

• HAZWOPER Certification

You will need this certification especially if the plan is to deal with hazardous substances and respond to emergencies, as stipulated by OSHA.

• State-Specific Certifications

Note that a good number of states have put in place additional certifications that have to do with environmental protection or biohazard remediation. You would want to make sure you secure all necessary certifications based on your location.

5. Licensing

In a good number of states, you will need to obtain state-regulated licenses before you can legally operate as a crime scene cleanup professional or run your own business.

As such, once you have completed your training and certifications, it is recommended you start applying for state-specific licenses required to practice as a crime scene cleanup technician. You will also need to obtain other business-related licenses if the plan is to open your own crime scene cleanup company.