What Is the Proper Name for Crime Scene Cleanup?
People searching for information about cleaning up a crime scene often encounter multiple terms used to describe the same type of work. This has led to widespread confusion about what the industry is actually called and what type of training is required.
The work commonly referred to as crime scene cleanup (sometimes called crime and trauma scene cleanup or forensic cleaning) is also known by several other names, depending on region, background, or professional context. Understanding these terms helps clarify what the work involves and how professional training fits into the industry.
Why This Industry Goes by So Many Names
There is no single universally enforced label for this profession. Over time, different groups have adopted different terminology to describe the cleanup of biological, infectious, and hazardous contamination resulting from deaths, accidents, and traumatic events.
As a result, the same type of work may be described using different terms, even though the underlying responsibilities and risks are largely the same.
Crime Scene Cleanup and Crime & Trauma Scene Cleanup
The most widely recognized and commonly used term is crime scene cleanup. Many people also refer to this work as crime and trauma scene cleanup or trauma and crime scene cleanup.
These terms are typically used interchangeably and describe professional cleanup work performed after incidents such as homicides, suicides, unattended deaths, and serious accidents.
Forensic Cleaning, Biohazard Cleaning, and Biorecovery
In professional, regulatory, or technical contexts, this work may also be described as forensic cleaning, biohazard cleaning, or biorecovery (sometimes written as bio-recovery).
These terms emphasize the presence of biological hazards and the need for specialized handling, decontamination procedures, and compliance with safety and disposal requirements.
Other Terms You May Encounter
Depending on the situation, the work may also be described using more situational language, such as death scene cleanup, accident scene cleanup, biohazard mitigation, or biohazard abatement.
Some professionals may also refer to the work as biocleaning or bio-cleaning, particularly when discussing decontamination rather than scene context.
Different Names, Same Type of Work
While the terminology varies, all of these terms describe professional cleanup involving biological or infectious hazards that require proper training, protective equipment, and regulated disposal.
The difference is not the work itself, but how it is labeled by different industries, agencies, or individuals.
Why Terminology Matters When Choosing Training
Because the industry goes by so many names, people researching training may not realize that different terms often point to the same type of work.
Understanding this terminology helps ensure that the training you choose prepares you for real-world crime scene and biohazard cleanup situations, regardless of what name is used to describe the job.
Professional training in crime scene cleanup focuses on safely handling biological hazards, understanding contamination spread, and complying with applicable safety and disposal requirements—regardless of the terminology used.