Glossary

Biohazard - Any type of biological waste or biological agent, such as a virus, that can be a threat to humans. Biohazards must be eliminated by professionals such as Bio-One, otherwise they can cause serious health effects. Continuous exposure to biohazards, if not properly removed, can lead to long term adverse health effects.

Biohazardous Agent - A biological agent or condition (an infectious organism or insecure laboratory procedures) that is a hazard to humans or the environment.

Biohazard Remediation - The cleanup and disinfection of any biohazard situation: hoarding, commercial or industrial accidents, chemical spills, contamination scenarios.

Biological Waste - Any material that contains or has been contaminated by a biohazardous agent.

Crime Scene Cleanup - Cleanup and disinfection of blood, other bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials from a crime scene. (OPIM)

Cleanup Operation - When hazardous substances are removed, confined, stabilized, or in any other manner taken care of; the end goal being to make the scene safer for people or the environment.

Decontamination - The removal of hazardous substances to avoid or minimize potential dangerous health effects.

Hazardous Materials Response (HAZMAT) - An organized group of trained professionals who handle and control hazardous substances; quite often, requiring very close proximity to the substance.