Becoming a Crime Scene Cleaner: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering a career as a crime scene cleaner? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a successful crime scene cleaner, including the necessary training, skills, and job search strategies.

Training and Certification

While there is no formal education required, completing a high school education or obtaining a GED can enhance your prospects of securing a job as a crime scene cleaner. Moreover, specific certifications can provide you with essential knowledge and skills:

Training Requirements

High School Diploma or GED: Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED. Certification in Crime Scene Cleaning: Look for certifications offered by government agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States, the National Academy of Crime Scene Cleaners (NACSC) in the UK, or the Canadian Biosafety Standards and Guidelines in Canada. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Respiratory Protection: Familiarize yourself with the proper use of PPE and respiratory protection. OSHA training can be particularly useful in this regard.

Physical and Emotional Preparedness

Becoming a crime scene cleaner also requires you to be physically and emotionally prepared for the job:

Physical Requirements

Strong Stomach: Be prepared to work in environments that are messy, bloody, and often odorous. Over time, you may adapt to these conditions. Physical Endurance: The job can be physically demanding, requiring you to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects. You may need to slim down and gain muscle to be effective. Long and Irregular Hours: Be prepared to work irregular and long hours, which may be challenging if you have other commitments.

Emotional Challenges

Emotional Resilience: You will encounter gruesome scenes and traumatic situations. It is important to have support through a therapist or a support group to help cope with these challenges.

Preparing Your Resume and Job Application

With the necessary skills and physical and emotional preparedness, you are ready to start your job application process:

Resumes and Job Applications

Highlight Relevant Experience: List any experience you have in biohazard handling, cleaning, or construction. Emphasize Physical and Emotional Qualities: Include traits such as a strong stomach, physical endurance, and emotional resilience that are important for the job. Targeted Job Search: Use job listings for bio-recovery, bio-cleaning, trauma cleaning, and crime scene decontamination to increase your chances of finding a suitable position. Background and Drug Testing: Ensure you are clean for a drug test and background check before applying to any job.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare yourself to become a crime scene cleaner and find a meaningful and challenging career in this field.