Working as a crime scene cleaner is not for the faint-hearted, but it can be an extremely rewarding job for the right person.

Are crime scene cleaners a thing?

Yes! Crime scene cleaners play a vital role in restoring trauma scenes and contaminated areas and protecting public health. The job is diverse and can lead to a long and satisfying career in a unique and progressive field.

You don’t need a degree to apply for crime scene cleaner jobs, but you must have a strong stomach and a willingness to learn specialist cleaning solutions.

If you’re considering pursuing a career in trauma cleanup, then here are the key steps to becoming a crime scene cleaner in the UK.

Learn about the role of a crime scene cleaner

You must clearly understand what crime scene cleanup jobs involve and the sanitising products used in forensic cleaning.

Chron describes how “a crime scene cleaner responds to the scene of a violent crime, suicide, or other trauma and cleans areas affected by blood, bodily fluids and other biological material.”

Witnessing crime scenes can be extremely traumatic and take a toll on your physical and emotional health. Crime scene cleanup is a gruelling responsibility, and the role is not for everyone.

How to Become a Crime Scene Cleaner

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a crime scene cleaner, here are the essential steps you need to take:

  1. Complete a specialised course: Start by enrolling in a course focused on trauma or crime scene cleaning.
  2. Gain practical experience: Look for entry-level positions with reputable companies authorised to handle crime scene and biohazard cleanups.
  3. Pass a background check: Since crime scene cleaners need access to sensitive areas and information, a thorough background check is essential.
  4. Expand your expertise: Continuously enhance your skill set by pursuing additional courses in specialised topics such as sharps removal and pest control.

Speaking from experience

Our very own MD, Ben Giles, was recently invited to an exclusive interview for LADBible TV to discuss the ins and outs of murder and suicide cleanup.

This exciting and informative interview will give you a first-hand insight into the role of a crime scene cleaner in the UK.

What is the average crime scene cleaner salary?

According to Salary.com, the average crime scene cleaner UK salary is almost £28,000 a year. However, the exact amount will depend on several factors, including your experience and location.

Professional cleaners can increase their earning potential by completing additional qualifications like biohazard decontamination or sharps removal training.

You may also be able to boost your annual salary by working overtime or unsociable hours.

You should be given an indication of the salary on offer when you start applying for crime scene cleaner jobs.

Crime scene cleaner salary per hour

Due to the nature of the work, it is also common for crime scene cleaners to be paid by the hour.

The average hourly wage for a professional crime scene cleaner ranges from £14 to £26, according to Payscale.com. However, this should increase as you gain more experience and relevant qualifications.

How long does it take to clean up a crime scene?

The time it takes to sanitise a trauma scene will vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the affected area, the crime that took place, and the severity of damage. You will learn more about this when you complete a forensic training course.

Understand the requirements for crime scene cleanup

The crime scene cleaning industry is not regulated in the UK, although strict public safety guidelines must be followed to minimise potential risks.

The Health and Safety Executive regulates biohazards like blood and other bodily fluids.

This means that only authorised companies can handle the cleanup of biohazards using professional cleaning supplies and materials.

Who cleans up crime scenes?

Trauma scene cleanup is a challenging field, and professionals must meet various background requirements.

For instance, crime scene cleaners must have compassion and show integrity when dealing with sensitive situations.

They must also have a good understanding of specialist cleaning solutions and be able to use pro clean products like a handheld fog machine and cleaning chemicals.

A thorough background check is carried out to make sure that candidates meet the necessary requirements.

Who is responsible for arranging crime scene cleaning?

The owner or facilities manager is responsible for arranging crime scene cleaning services.

They have a legal duty to protect the health and safety of employees and visitors, so they must hire fully-trained cleaners to carry out the work.

Crime scene cleaning must be carried out in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

This is why hiring professional trauma cleaners with plenty of industry experience is always best.

Complete crime scene cleaner qualifications

What degree do you need to be a crime scene cleaner?

No formal education is required to become a crime scene cleaner in the UK, and a degree is not required.

Do you need qualifications to become a crime scene cleaner?

Crime scene cleaners in the UK don’t require a degree, but they must complete specialist training to gain the skills, knowledge, and expertise to meet the demands of the role.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this field, you must complete an approved crime scene cleanup training or forensic cleaning course.

This will cover key topics such as how to use personal protective equipment and how to operate a fogger and sanitiser machine.

Specialist crime scene cleaning online course

At Ultima Cleaning Academy, we offer a variety of specialist biohazard and decontamination training courses and industrial cleaning supplies.

Our new online Suicide, Murder Scene and Trauma Clean-Up course will teach you everything you need to become an effective crime scene cleaner.

You can learn more about this fully accredited course by clicking here.

In-person training

Our online programmes are extremely popular, but we also offer classroom-based courses if you prefer face-to-face training.

For instance, our Decontamination and Biohazard Cleaning Course takes place in person and offers specialist in-depth training from experienced instructors.

This forensic cleaning course covers a wide range of topics, including professional trauma cleaning, pest control supplies, and how to clean up crime scenes using professional cleaning materials.

Biohazard Cleaning Training

Gain relevant industry experience

Once you have completed the relevant crime scene cleaning qualifications, you can start applying for jobs. Most crime scene cleaners work for specialist cleaning companies.

You can search for trauma scene cleanup jobs online or contact companies directly to enquire about positions.

Many employers provide induction training to teach employees the specialist skills and knowledge needed to work safely in crime scene cleanup. Look for an employer that offers structured training and career development.

How to learn about crime scene cleaner jobs

You can learn more about crime scene cleanup training and the role and responsibilities of a trauma cleaner by visiting reputable websites like Study.com or speaking with people who work in the industry, like our team here at Ultima.

On-the-job trauma cleaning training

Many crime scene cleaner jobs require intensive on-the-job training to prepare for the role.

You will also need to gain a thorough understanding of the specialist sanitising products and cleaning solutions used in trauma cleaning.

Relevant training courses

You may also decide to enhance your CV by completing additional training courses on specialist topics like biohazard awareness, sharps removal, or professional cleaning solutions.

Earning extra certifications will give you a competitive advantage and help you secure the top roles in the crime scene cleaning industry.

Ultima Training Area

Have the right tools and equipment – Key for your safety

Crime scene cleaners must have the right equipment and cleaning supplies to complete their tasks of dealing with hazardous materials safely and efficiently.

This should include the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) , essential cleaning products, and antiviral disinfectants from high-grade cleaning products brands such as Byotrol.

Exclusive discount on Byotrol products

We’re offering a huge 20% discount on our new Byotrol UK cleaning supplies and sanitation packages to help individuals and businesses stay safe during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Explore our full range of Byotrol products and check out our amazing offer below:

The Risks of Cleaning Crime Scenes

Crime scene cleaners must have the right equipment and cleaning supplies to complete their tasks of dealing with hazardous materials safely and efficiently.

Crime scene cleaning, while essential, carries inherent risks that extend beyond just removing visible stains. Understanding these hazards is crucial for appreciating the role of professional cleaners. Here’s a closer look at the dangers associated with trauma scenes:

Bloodborne Pathogens

Blood at a crime scene is a significant hazard, potentially carrying diseases like hepatitis and HIV. The real risk lies in the potential for these pathogens to enter the body through any skin abrasions or cuts.

This danger emphasises the importance of protective gear such as gloves and suits, which are crucial for preventing direct contact with potentially infectious materials.

Hazardous Bodily Fluids

Other bodily fluids, such as urine and faeces, are equally hazardous. These can harbour bacteria like E. coli and pathogens, including Salmonella, which are known for their resilience on surfaces and potential for long-term contamination.

Cleaners must employ meticulous cleaning techniques to thoroughly sanitise the area and eliminate these health hazards.

Physical Hazards

Crime scenes often contain hidden physical hazards, such as shattered glass or jagged edges, which pose injury risks.

Additionally, the residue from investigative procedures, including fingerprint powder and other materials, requires careful and thorough cleaning to avoid contamination.

Airborne Risks and Residual Dangers

A lesser-known hazard in crime scene cleaning is the potential airborne transmission of pathogens, particularly from dried bodily fluids.

These invisible threats necessitate the use of appropriate respiratory protection and meticulous cleaning strategies.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact

Besides physical risks, crime scene cleaning also has a significant emotional and psychological impact.

Exposure to scenes of violence and death requires mental fortitude and emotional resilience, making this a profession suited only for individuals who can handle its challenging nature.

Summary

If you think you have what it takes to be a crime scene cleaner, start researching the role and find out what qualifications and training you will need.

Get in touch for expert advice
Our team has many years of experience cleaning crime scenes and training professionals on how to carry out safe and effective trauma cleanup.

Get in touch if you have any questions about our crime scene cleaning course or cleaning supplies.

You can visit our website to learn more about our exciting range of online and face-to-face courses.

FAQs

How much do crime scene cleaners make?

The average crime scene cleaner salary in the UK is around £28,000 a year.

However, the amount you are offered will vary depending on factors like your location and your level of experience regarding trauma cleaning services.

How can crime scene cleaners increase their salary?

Professional crime scene cleaners can increase their earning potential by completing additional qualifications like biohazard decontamination or sharps removal training.

They may also be able to boost their annual salary by working overtime or unsociable hours.

Who is responsible for arranging crime scene cleaning?

The responsibility for arranging the cleaning of crime scenes typically falls on the property owner or the facility manager. In the case of criminal activity, law enforcement may coordinate the clean up once their investigation is complete. They make sure it’s done by licensed professionals to meet health and safety standards.

What degree do I need to become a crime scene cleaner?

There are no formal education requirements to become a crime scene cleaner in the UK, and a degree or previous training is not required.

However, crime scene cleaners must complete specialist training to prepare them to work in the emergency services field. They must also have a good understanding of professional cleaning solutions and be able to use pro clean equipment like a handheld fog machine and cleaning chemicals.

A thorough background check is carried out to make sure that candidates meet the necessary requirements.

Is working as a crime scene cleaner rewarding?

Yes! Working as a crime scene cleaner can be extremely rewarding, although it can also be emotionally and physically challenging. The role is certainly not for the faint-hearted, but it can be a very satisfying career path for the right person.