Many people are surprised to learn that professionals who are called in to clean crime scenes do not have to comply with any federal regulations. There may not even be any local regulations or requirements that must be met. This leaves the individual service to determine what sort of training their crime scene cleaners receive. Here are some examples of the type of education and training that a reputable company will provide for those who meet their requirements and wish to pursue this type of career.
Formal Education Requirements
It’s unusual for anything other than a basic education to be required in order to train as a crime scene cleaner. As long as the individual is able to read and follow basic instructions, any further education is considered a plus.
While past educational achievements may not be considered essential, there will be continuing education opportunities. Many services will provide OSHA training for new hires, something that will serve them well as they carry out their duties. There may also be other on-the-job training, especially during the first months of employment. Some companies employ a mentoring approach by teaming a new hire with an experienced cleaner.
Training in the Use of Personal Protection Equipment
Familiarity with personal protection equipment is a must. Cleaners come in contact with all sorts of bacteria and pathogens at different crime scenes. It’s important to know what type of protective gear to wear, including masks and other apparatus designed to prevent inhaling airborne contaminants. Part of the training will focus on selecting the right gear and equipment, how to maintain it responsibly, and what it takes to ensure it’s worn properly.
Learning How to Use Cleaning Equipment
Specialized cleaning equipment, along with higher level cleaning agents, is essential for this type of work. Cleaners are trained in how to use each piece of equipment to the best advantage. They are also trained in how to handle the chemicals used for cleaning, including how to dispose of cleaning fluids once they’ve been used at a scene. This part of the training makes it easier to manage tasks at the scene efficiently and thoroughly.
The Need for Compassion, Empathy, and Respect
There will be times when crime scene cleaners need to interact with people who have lost loved ones or who were injured during the commission of the crime. That’s why many services spend time training their personnel in how to demonstrate compassion for those who have been affected. The ability to interact with others respectfully and help them to remain as calm as possible is an important trait. In particular, the new hire learns how to provide that empathy while maintaining a degree of detachment from what has taken place.
The work of a crime scene cleaner can be physically and emotionally demanding. Not everyone is suited for this type of work. Fortunately, those who have a strong desire to do for others and help make a bad situation better already possess one of the most important traits necessary to be a success in this line of work.
