Biohazard cleanup is little known but crucial for restoring safety after traumatic incidents. A recent Living in Denver podcast with Alex Saldana featured Krista and Matt Gregg from Bio-One. They provided an insider's look at the demanding world of biohazard remediation.
"We help with some really sensitive situations, unattended deaths, if someone dies by suicide. We help with homeless encampments and we do smaller things like mold remediation. We can help with rodent dropping cleanup, or dog urine and feces, all the fun stuff you probably don't talk about at the dinner table."
Bio-One isn’t your typical cleaning service. They help remediate suicides, hoarding, and meth lab cleanups. During the conversation, Krista and Matt emphasize their commitment not only to the physical cleaning but to handling each situation with the sensitivity and respect it deserves.
"So we typically really talk about that in the initial call. Any type of biohazard remediation. If somebody has died by suicide, if it's an unattended death where there are health hazards involved, I tell people I don't know what your policy states but in the vast majority of cases we've found that homeowners insurance will cover this."
Navigating insurance claims is a key part of their service. Krista and Matt discuss the importance of initiating the insurance process on behalf of their clients, easing one burden during a time of stress. They also ensure properties are safe to occupy, prioritizing remediation assistance over financial concerns.
"We're not like robots where we're coming in and we're not like absorbing. I mean, every single day we're absorbing the trauma, the emotions, or the situation, so one of the challenging things after you do this over and over again is also finding ways where we can take care of ourselves."
The podcast highlighted the emotional toll on the Bio-One team. Remediating biohazardous situations means absorbing the associated trauma. Krista and Matt explain how their team practices self-care and have established protocols to ensure their team’s mental health is protected. This aspect sheds light on the human side of a business that is, all too often, hidden from public view.
"But, you know, it's trying to strike that balance of we need to get something done very efficiently and very quickly, but people are people. They are human beings. You can't just bulldoze somebody's life away."
A hot topic in many cities across the country, Krista and Matt touch on the sensitive issue of homeless encampments. They work closely with municipalities to address these challenges compassionately and effectively, always striving to balance public safety with respect for the individuals affected. Bio-One's approach involves recovering pieces of property and handing them over to the city to store them for a time, allowing individuals to reclaim them. They have a strong commitment to humane treatment alongside community safety.
The conversation reveals the depth and complexity of running a biohazard cleanup business. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about caring—for the clients, their homes, and the emotional well-being of everyone involved. Bio-One’s dedication to compassion, coupled with their meticulous attention to the technical and insurance aspects of their work, makes them a unique and vital service in times of crisis.
At Bio-One, we often encounter questions about our approach to hoarding cleanup, particularly regarding estimates and involvement of the hoarder themselves. Our approach is centered on respect, trust, and a deep understanding of the psychological elements at play.
The most critical aspect of our work is building trust with the individual. Imagine someone making decisions about your possessions without your input; it would feel invasive and distressing. That's precisely why we insist on involving the hoarder directly in the decision-making process. Our first step is always to understand their needs, wants, pace, comfort level, and goals. This approach helps in making them feel in control, which is crucial for a successful cleanup.
Without direct input from the hoarder, it's impossible to develop an accurate remediation plan. Every situation is unique, and understanding the specific needs and goals of the individual is paramount. This cannot be achieved without their active participation. Only by engaging with the hoarder can we determine the scope of work, the costs, and the resources needed, ensuring that the plan aligns with their comfort and readiness.
Change can only happen when the individual is ready. For those who are not yet at that point, we recommend initiating open, empathetic conversations about their situation. Websites like PsychologyToday.com offer resources to find therapists specialized in hoarding, which can be invaluable in bridging the gap between concern and action.
Our commitment at Bio-One is to respect each individual's journey and provide support that not only cleans but also heals. Each project is a step towards recovery, not just for the environment but for the person at its heart.
We are thrilled to share the fantastic news about our recent fundraiser event, hosted in collaboration with Living the Dream Brewing Co., in support of Special Olympics Colorado. The event was not just a gathering; it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the spirit of giving back. And now, we're excited to announce that, thanks to your incredible support, we've raised a total of $2,359 to date!
The fundraiser, held on a sunny afternoon at Living the Dream Brewery, was a heartwarming display of camaraderie and kindness. From 2:00 to 4:00 PM, the brewery was abuzz with laughter, conversation, and the clinking of glasses as people came together for a cause close to our hearts. For every beer sold, $1 was donated to Special Olympics Colorado, adding to the growing pool of funds raised for this amazing organization.
But the generosity didn't stop there. Our raffle, featuring prizes cumulatively valued at over $500, was a highlight of the event. Attendees eagerly purchased tickets, hoping to win one of the eight fabulous prizes, three of which were worth over $150 each. The excitement peaked at 4:00 PM when two surprise guests from Special Olympics Colorado, Fin and Matt, helped us pick the winning tickets. Their presence added a special touch to the event, reminding us all of the real heroes we were there to support.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in the fundraiser. Whether you joined us at Living the Dream Brewery, purchased raffle tickets, or made an online donation, your generosity has made a significant impact. The funds raised will go a long way in supporting the athletes of Special Olympics Colorado, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and celebrate their achievements.
A special shoutout to Living the Dream Brewery for being such fantastic hosts and partners in this endeavor. Their contribution and hospitality played a crucial role in the success of the event.
The excitement doesn't end here! In celebration of surpassing our fundraising goal, our team at Bio-One of Colorado is gearing up for the Special Olympics Polar Plunge on April 6. Yes, you read that right! We'll be taking the plunge in our biohazard suits at the Aurora Reservoir. It's our way of showing our unwavering support for Special Olympics Colorado and the incredible athletes who inspire us every day.
Stay tuned for updates and photos from the Polar Plunge. We can't wait to share this adventurous and meaningful experience with you all.
The fundraiser may be over, but our support for Special Olympics Colorado continues. If you couldn't attend the event but still wish to contribute, it's not too late! You can make a donation online at https://www.classy.org/team/569562. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference in the lives of these remarkable athletes.
We're thrilled to share an exciting event that combines our love for community, craft beer, and a great cause. Bio-One of Colorado is partnering with Living the Dream Brewery to host a fundraiser supporting Special Olympics Colorado. It's an opportunity to come together, enjoy some fantastic brews, and make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: Living the Dream Brewery, 9150 Commerce Center Cir #300, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
During the event, $1 from every beer sold between 2:00 and 4:00 PM will be donated to Special Olympics Colorado. But that's not all! We're also organizing a raffle with some incredible prizes cumulatively valued at over $500. All proceeds from the raffle tickets will directly support the Special Olympics.
RSVP on our Facebook Event page!
As if great beer and exciting prizes weren't enough, you can root for your favorite Elite Eight teams during March Madness. It's the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon – supporting a great cause while enjoying good company and delicious brews.
Here's something even more exciting: If Bio-One of Colorado reaches our fundraising goal of $2,000, our team will take on the Special Olympics Polar Plunge at the Aurora Reservoir on April 6, dressed in our biohazard suits! It's a fun and bold way to show our commitment to this incredible organization.
For those who can't make it to the event but still wish to contribute, you can make a donation online at https://www.classy.org/team/569562. Every little bit helps, and we're grateful for your support.
We're looking forward to seeing many of you at Living the Dream Brewery on March 30. It's an opportunity for us to give back to our community and support an organization that does so much for individuals with disabilities. Let's raise our glasses and funds for Special Olympics Colorado!
We are thrilled to announce that Bio-One of Colorado is a Supporting Sponsor of the Special Olympics Colorado. Our commitment to supporting the community and helping first aligns perfectly with the mission of the Special Olympics, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with disabilities.
Did you know that it costs $256 to support one athlete for an entire year of programming?
Special Olympics Colorado is an incredible organization that not only offers sports opportunities but also provides health screenings and leadership opportunities to its athletes. It costs $256 to support one athlete for an entire year of programming and every contribution helps ensure that these athletes can continue to thrive and excel.
Bio-One of Colorado would like to raise enough money to support 10 athletes and donations of all sizes make an impact!
In a show of solidarity and support, if we reach our fundraising goal of $2,000, Bio-One team members will take the plunge in the Aurora Reservoir on April 6, 2024 in our biohazard suits! This unique twist is our way of adding some fun to the challenge and highlighting the importance of the cause.
Thank you for your support, and let's make a splash for a great cause!
Bio-One of Colorado is a biohazard cleaning company dedicated to helping those in need. Our services include crime scene cleanup, hoarding remediation, and more. We believe in giving back to our community and are proud to support organizations like the Special Olympics Colorado.
Hoarding is a topic that often goes undiscussed, yet it's an issue that affects many. NFL star Jason Kelce's humorous confession about his locker room habits on the New Heights Podcast sheds light on this often-misunderstood behavior. It's a great starting point for exploring the spectrum of hoarding and how it intersects with current organization trends.
Note: The New Heights podcast features explicit content.
Clutter and collecting exists on a spectrum. It ranges from mild clutter, where the living space is disorganized but still functional, to severe, where the clutter significantly impacts daily functioning and safety. Kelce's light-hearted admission highlights how common it is to hold onto items longer than necessary, a behavior that many can relate to.
This spectrum is essential to consider in the context of rising organization trends. As seen in the Bio-One hoarding guide, organization isn't just about minimalism or aesthetics; it's about functionality and mental health. Clutter can cause stress and anxiety, and decluttering can be therapeutic. Our hoarding guide includes the following topics:
When it comes to organizing and spring cleaning, you can take notes from a variety of influencers. Two of our favorite are Margareta Magnusson, author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, and the Home Edit, who's main philosophy is combining form, function, and fun for a home that stays neat and organized while keeping personality as a strong feature. They also released a helpful and entertaining Netflix series called Get Organized with the Home Edit in 2020. Definitely worth watching!
Hoarding is a complex issue that exists on a wide spectrum. From Jason Kelce's humorous take to the serious implications of severe hoarding, it's clear that organization and decluttering are about more than just cleanliness. They're about creating a healthy, stress-free environment where we can thrive. As we embrace the latest trends in organization, from mindful purchasing to digital decluttering, we can all take steps towards a more organized, functional, and serene life.
For more insights on hoarding and organization strategies, read Bio-One's comprehensive hoarding guide here.