Case Study: Successful Biohazard Mitigation by Onsite Pro Restoration

January 26, 2025

by onsitepro.org

Client: Confidential Commercial Property in Los Angeles, CA

Date: July 2024

Service Focus: Biohazard Mitigation – Sewer Backup Cleanup

Introduction

Biohazard incidents are among the most urgent restoration emergencies. They carry immediate health risks, disrupt business operations, and require strict compliance with safety standards. Onsite Pro Restoration, based in North Hollywood, CA, specializes in 24/7 emergency response for water damage, fire and smoke restoration, mold remediation, odor removal, and biohazard cleanup.

This case study outlines a successful biohazard mitigation project performed at a commercial property in Los Angeles. The incident involved a hazardous sewer overflow that demanded rapid containment and restoration.

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Background of the Incident

In July 2024, a Los Angeles commercial property experienced a sudden sewer line backup. The overflow contaminated restrooms, hallways, and storage areas, creating unsafe conditions for both employees and visitors. The property manager immediately contacted Onsite Pro Restoration after recognizing the situation was beyond the scope of janitorial staff.

The concerns were clear:

Public health: Exposure to sewage introduces bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.
Regulatory compliance: OSHA and California health codes require proper handling of biohazards.
Business continuity: The client could not afford prolonged downtime, as the building housed multiple tenants.

Challenges

High Risk Environment
Sewage water contained harmful microorganisms that required full personal protective equipment (PPE) and biohazard protocols.
Urgency of Response
The client needed rapid mitigation to reopen the facility safely within 24 hours.
Extent of Contamination
Multiple zones were affected, including porous building materials, which are difficult to sanitize fully.
Odor Control
Raw sewage produces persistent odors that can linger even after surface cleaning.

The Onsite Pro Restoration Solution

Our certified technicians followed a structured, standards-based response plan:

Immediate Assessment

Arrived on site within 60 minutes of the initial call.
Used moisture meters and ATP testing to measure contamination levels.
Developed a site-specific remediation plan.

Containment and Safety Protocols

Established isolation zones with poly sheeting and zipper access.
Shut down HVAC systems to prevent airborne spread.
Required all technicians to wear Tyvek suits, N95 respirators, gloves, and eye protection.

Biohazard Cleanup Process

Extracted contaminated water with commercial-grade pumps.
Removed unsalvageable porous materials (carpet, baseboards).
Cleaned and sanitized all non-porous surfaces using EPA-approved disinfectants.
Applied plant-based disinfectants where appropriate for eco-safe restoration.

Odor Neutralization

Deployed HEPA-filtered air scrubbers with activated carbon.
Applied enzymatic odor neutralizers to affected zones.

Verification and Clearance

Conducted ATP swab tests post-cleaning to confirm sanitization.
Performed visual inspection and moisture verification to ensure no hidden contamination.
Provided a clearance report for the property manager.

Results

Rapid Containment: The site was secured within the first hour, limiting spread.
Effective Mitigation: All contaminated materials were removed or sanitized according to IICRC S540 standards.
Odor Removal: Air quality was restored, with no lingering sewage smell.
Minimal Downtime: The building was safe to reopen within 24 hours.
Client Satisfaction: The property manager praised both the speed of response and thoroughness of cleanup.

Client Testimonial

“Onsite Pro Restoration exceeded expectations with their biohazard cleanup. They responded quickly, contained the situation, and restored operations in record time. We were impressed with their professionalism and attention to safety.”
— Lia M., Property Manager, Los Angeles, CA

Key Takeaways for Businesses

Act Immediately: Biohazard events escalate quickly. Delays increase both health risks and restoration costs.
Know the 24-Hour Rule: Aim to contain and sanitize within the first day to minimize disruption.
Follow Standards: OSHA, EPA, and IICRC standards exist for a reason—cutting corners can lead to liability issues.
Professional Equipment Matters: HEPA air scrubbers, ATP testing, and advanced disinfectants make the difference between surface cleaning and true mitigation.

About Onsite Pro Restoration

Located in North Hollywood, CA, Onsite Pro Restoration provides:

Our technicians are IICRC-certified and available 24/7 for emergencies across Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

Contact Us

Need professional biohazard cleanup? Contact Onsite Pro Restoration today at (818) 336-1800 or info@onsitepro.org. We’re available 24/7 to assist with all your emergency needs.

Pete M.

Post Author Info

Pete Mantizian is the dedicated owner of Onsite Pro Restoration. He is driven by a passion to improve living conditions and prevent health issues caused by improper restoration. With over 10 years in construction and 7 years in restoration, Petros has managed projects for major franchises like Serv-Pro and 911 Restoration. He holds certifications in Applied Structural Drying, Microbial Remediation, and more. Committed to excellence, Petros ensures every project is done right the first time. Outside of work, he cherishes time with his loving wife and two children, balancing his fulfilling career with creating lasting family memories.

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Need Professional Biohazard Cleanup Assistance?

Biohazard situations require specialized care, safety, and discretion. Call (818) 336-1800, email info@onsitepro.org, or submit the form below to reach our certified team. We’ll respond quickly, ensure compliance with health standards, and restore your property safely and respectfully.