Yellow tape do not cross

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) announced the publication of a newly-revised ANSI-approved ANSI/IICRC S540 Standard for Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup (2nd edition, 2023).  

This Standard describes the procedures to be followed and the precautions to be taken when performing trauma and crime scene cleanup regardless of surface, item, or location. This Standard assumes that all scenes have been released by law enforcement or regulatory agencies.

Trauma and crime scene cleanup consists of the following components for which procedures are described in this Standard:

• Principles of Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup;

• Safety and Health;

• Antimicrobial (Biocide) Technology;

• Administrative Procedures, Project Documentation, and Risk Management;

• Inspection and Preliminary Determination;

• Equipment and Supplies;

• Limitations, Complexities, Complications, and Conflicts;

• Structural Remediation;

• Vehicle and Other Machinery Remediation;

• Contents Remediation;

• Packaging, Transport, and Disposal of Regulated Infectious or Potentially Infectious Waste; and

• Confirmation of Cleaning.

David Oakes, IICRC S540 consensus body chairman, says: “The ANSI/IICRC S540 Standard is an update of the first edition published in 2017. The new S540 clarifies the responsibilities of the worker, certified technician, project manager or crew chief, and company management. It further clarifies the proper care, treatment, and disposition of porous and semi-porous structural materials and the potential for restorability while protecting the health and safety of workers and occupants. It is important to note that contents and structural items impacted blood and other potential infectious material do not necessarily need to be replaced and can often be restored to a safe, sanitary, and usable condition. The important term ‘clean’ has been defined and clarified. The Consensus Body consists of subject matter experts that include practitioners (restorers), Industrial Hygienists, Engineers, Chemist, Physician, and Instructors. Reference material was gathered from around the world and used in the update of this important document.”

Brandon Burton, IICRC standards chairman, says: “This update represents a critical step to ensure the industry accepted Standard of Care reflects what is current and prudent in the field of Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup. I commend Mr. Oakes and the current IICRC S540 Consensus Body on the countless hours and effort they have volunteered to this revision, and to their ongoing commitment to our industry and its stakeholders.”

To purchase a copy of the new ANSI/IICRC S540: 2023 and other standards, click here.