Frequently Asked Questions

As indicated in our Vision Statement, CADS objective is to become the "catalyst and foremost authority in the development, advocacy and professional growth of the Biohazard and Decontamination industry in Canada". In other words, we want to be the voice, advocate and supporter of the Crime/Trauma/Crystal Meth/Disease Outbreak Decontamination industry.

It really comes down to the concept of "risk". For those of you in the industry, you recognize that every scene that you walk into is unique entirely unto itself, with always varying degrees of risk. In many cases, you just don't know the hazards that you might be dealing - could the person have had Hepatitis, HIV, are there other contaminants in the area, is there potential risks to family members or others at the scene... Unfortunately, there are still companies and individuals that view a homicide, suicide, unattended death or gross filth scenario as "just another cleaning job". In reality, if the area is not properly decontaminated with the correct equipment and chemicals, you are still exposing others to possible physical and medical dangers. This could also include the physical or structural damage to a facility.

Another aspect to be considered is the awareness and adherence to the effective, safe and legal methods of disposing of biohazardous waste.

We believe that CADS is unique in its training methods due to the combination of skills and relevant information that we offer. Our training is conducted by individuals that not only know the theoretical aspects of this business, but also the practical side. Our instructors work in the crime and trauma scene decontamination industry! Their decontamination experience includes some of North America's highest profile homicides, months to year old decompositions, some of Canada's largest Crystal Meth labs and the worst hoarding/pack rat/gross filth scenarios. Our instructors know what to do in a given any situation, because they have experienced a wide variety of situations in the field. More importantly, they know the potential risks and what NOT to do! When our instructors explain how to safely operate a piece of equipment or use appropriate chemicals, it's because they have used them! We also bring years of experience to both the functional and business side of the operations. Finally, there are unique and sometimes subtle differences in the legislation, guidelines, labour laws and environmental practices within Canada and between provinces. Our focus is to identify these differences for our members to ensure their continued safe and professional operations.

We can provide the knowledge, skills and health & safety awareness that will ensure your continued success. CADS can also help you develop your business by providing direction for effective marketing strategies, access to other members and the advocacy voice for your industry. A voice that is focused on enhancing the visibility and professionalism of this industry.

Compulsive Hoarding and the resulting risks that can occur including physical hazards, biohazardous risks and potential gross filth situations can be some of the most dangerous scenes a crime scene cleaner can attend. First of all, you never know what lurks below the surface in a gross filth scenario! Some of our instructors and the companies we have talked to have run into unbelievable scenarios including combustible materials hidden under garbage, discarded needles, human waste and feces through-out a house, large numbers of cats, dead animals and many other potentially dangerous items - not something your local cleaning company is equipped to deal with or likely has experienced! Hoarding can lead to tripping hazards, safe access issues, contamination, infection and various levels of infestation. Keep in mind that Hoarding or Pack Rat Syndrome, as it is sometimes called, is generally a result of a mental health issue. Understanding the potential risks, taking a structured and carefully thought-out course of action can mean the difference between a safe resolution to the problem or health risks for the individual (s) that are undertaking the clean-up.