Concrete and asphalt hold onto contamination
Parking lots and garages are where many incidents happen: shootings, assaults, vehicle accidents, overdoses and suicides. They also collect needles, human waste and debris in stairwells, elevators and corners. Concrete and asphalt are porous. Blood soaks in and leaves stains that remain long after the surface has been rinsed, and a rinse alone can spread contamination into drains.
How the work is done
- Coordinate with property management and law enforcement, and set up traffic control or barricades so the area is safe to work.
- Collect sharps, debris and contaminated items.
- Clean blood and bodily fluids from concrete, asphalt, curbs, walls and vehicles' surroundings, controlling runoff so it doesn't enter storm drains.
- Disinfect treated surfaces using products appropriate for outdoor and porous surfaces.
- Treat stains on concrete where possible so the area doesn't remain a visible reminder.
- Clean stairwells and elevators, including handrails, buttons and door hardware.
- Document the work for property owners, insurers and management.
Stormwater rules
Washing blood or waste into storm drains can violate local stormwater rules. Wastewater from cleanup is captured and disposed of properly.
Recurring problems
Garages with ongoing needle or human waste problems benefit from scheduled sweeps and cleaning of stairwells and corners, along with lighting and security improvements recommended by your security provider.
Common questions
Can you remove blood stains from concrete?
Often, yes. Fresh stains respond best. Older or deep stains can usually be lightened significantly, though full removal isn't always possible.
Can you work while the garage is open?
Yes, with the affected area barricaded and traffic routed around it.
Do you handle incidents involving vehicles?
Yes. Vehicles themselves can be cleaned as well. See vehicle biohazard cleanup.