Bio-One Of NW Indianapolis decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

Working in a Biohazard Suit: Challenges and Worker Safety

Introduction

Working in a biohazard suit is a demanding and crucial job, particularly when considering the conditions that arise during the hot summer months. These protective suits are essential for safeguarding workers against hazardous substances, pathogens, and potentially life-threatening situations. However, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the health and safety of their employees who work in such challenging environments. In this blog post, we will explore the conditions of working in a biohazard suit, especially during the summer, and how companies strive to ensure the well-being of their workers.

Dangers of Working in a Biohazard Suit:

Heat Stress

Biohazard suits are designed to create a sealed environment, protecting workers from external threats. Unfortunately, this also means limited ventilation, leading to increased body heat and perspiration. In hot summer temperatures, the risk of heat stress and exhaustion becomes significantly higher. An article by the CDC describes a study that details the heat strain and stress while working in biohazard suits.

Common Question- How Hot Does It Get in a Biohazard Suit?

No matter who you are there will be a temperature increase once you get into a biohazard suit and begin working. This increase will vary from person to person. Studies shown in the National Library of Medicine show that this increase can be between 11 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This would mean that on a hot 90-degree day you will be sitting in temperatures up to 110 degrees for extended periods of time.

Physical Restriction and Stress

Wearing a biohazard suit is very physically demanding. These suits are often heavy, restrictive in movement, and can cause fatigue and muscle strain. The discomfort can be further exacerbated by the heat and humidity during summer. When stepping into a biohazard suit, it is comparable to taking a greenhouse-like environment and containing it to a human-sized space. This can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.

Dehydration

Prolonged use of biohazard suits, combined with high temperatures, can lead to excessive sweating and dehydration. Maintaining hydration levels becomes critical for workers to perform their duties effectively and prevent potential health issues.

How we take care of our technicians:

  1. Training and Education: Bio-One NW Indianapolis provides comprehensive training to educate our techs about the risks associated with working in biohazard suits and how to mitigate them. This includes recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses, proper hydration practices, and regular breaks to prevent exhaustion.
  2. Cooling Systems: To alleviate the effects of heat stress, Bio-One NW Indianapolis invests in cooling systems and technologies designed specifically for workers in biohazard suits. These may include integrated cooling vests, fans, or air conditioning units to maintain a more comfortable working environment.
  3. Hydration Stations: We prioritize the benefits of hydration stations near work areas to ensure easy access to fresh drinking water. Regular reminders and breaks are encouraged to promote hydration and prevent dehydration among workers.
  4. Monitoring Health: We regularly monitor the health of our techs by conducting medical check-ups, especially during the summer months. This aids in spotting early signs of heat-related illnesses or health concerns and ensures prompt actions for their well-being.
  5. Work Schedule Management: Bio-One NW Indianapolis implements modified work schedules during jobs to avoid exposing our techs to extreme temperatures for extended periods. Providing frequent breaks and encouraging rotation among team members can help prevent heat-related illnesses and reduce fatigue.

Conclusion

Working in a biohazard suit during the summer presents unique challenges for the individuals tasked with safeguarding public health and safety. However, Bio-One NW Indianapolis recognizes the importance of prioritizing worker health and safety. By integrating thorough training, cooling, hydration, health monitoring, and enhanced PPE, we can ensure excellent protection and support for workers in demanding environments. The ongoing efforts to enhance work environments and equipment demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of those working tirelessly in biohazard suits, ultimately contributing to a safer and healthier working environment.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to us at any time. We are always here to help.

Bio-One NW Indianapolis

"Help First, Business Second"

24 / 7 / 365

(317) 435-1611

info@BioOneNWIndianapolis.com

Mirror Review published the article "Nick-Anthony Zamucen - A Game-Changer in the Restoration Industry" and we couldn't be prouder! Over the past 15 years, Nick has established a Pizzeria Chain franchise, a home care franchise, a bio-recovery franchise, and BOR. All of which are stories of success!

If you're considering stepping into the Bio-One family, here are our top 5 favorite Nick-Anthony Zamucen quotes from this article and how they relate to owning a Bio-One franchise. 

1.  “They’ve gone through enough, let’s go in there and end their day better than it started.”

This is a core mentality of the Bio-One motto Help First, Business Second. Crime scene cleaning is an industry where you know you are making a positive difference in people’s lives, and you will have the opportunity to help people in their greatest time of need. It's as close to being a hero on a day-to-day basis as you can get. 

2. “One of the greatest enjoyments of business is interrupting the ‘status quo’ in set industries." 

Over twenty years ago, the 'status quo' in crime and trauma scene cleaning was DIY. But after first-hand experience, Nick knew it was time for things to change.

Nick encountered a fellow church member who recently lost her husband after he had sadly taken his own life. After police had finished their inspection, she was left with the traumatizing aftermath from the suicide that occurred. With the mindset of helping a community member in need, Nick visited the home with the church minister and helped clean the biohazard. Soon after, Nick realized similar situations are unfortunately faced by countless individuals throughout the country and world, and with the simple idea of helping others, Bio-One was born. 

Fast forward to today, Bio-One Inc. is still paving the way in this industry. In 2021, Bio-One was named number one in crime scene cleaning and trauma scene cleaning in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list. Why? Our experienced training and support team will help you launch and build your franchise business. Bio-One has developed the necessary referral networks, created top tier marketing plans, and established vendor relationships to increase your profitability.

3. “You don’t have to wear every hat and figure out every detail by yourself. When you buy a franchise, you are buying into a success strategy, a road map, and a proven game plan." 

One of the benefits of buying into a franchise is that you can be in business for yourself, but not by yourself. Once you begin your Bio-One business, there is a robust training and support program, systems and tools. We begin with our initial franchise training at our headquarters, and ongoing training classes are hosted throughout the year via live webinars and conference calls.

4. “This is fun and business is challenging, but how fun would it be if it were easy? I live to win and compete. I don’t live my life aiming for the second prize. It’s first or nothing…that’s what keeps me motivated."

In order to expect your new business to be a success, prepare to work. You can't just throw a bunch of seeds into the wind and expect a high yield crop. You have to be willing to put in effort from sun up to sun down to get where you want to go. 

Bio-One provides the training and game plan, but the fun begins when you push yourself to execute all you've learned. You will have an incredible support system behind you, but you are the key to your own success. Once you buy a Bio-One franchise, prepare to work like never before. And prepare to be rewarded like never before. 

5. “We teach life skills and business ownership. There is no one size fits all plan for everything, because everyone is uniquely different and needs different things.”

Supporting franchise owners is the backbone of our success. We recognize that Bio-One owners have unique skill sets and business backgrounds. Whether you're a retired police officer, military service member, marketing professional, or data analyst - there's a place for you. 

If you answer "Yes" to any of these questions, Bio-One is a good fit for you!

  • Do you want to build a business that can change your life? 
  • Do you want to be in business for yourself, but not by yourself? 
  • Do you want to own an exciting company where no two days are the same?  
  • Do you want to have the satisfied feeling that comes from helping others while keeping your community safe?

Join The Bio-One Crime Scene Cleaning Franchise Team!

303-625-6543