Working in the field of bio-recovery and trauma-scene restoration, is it that imperative to be able to substantiate and show you are educated in your skilled trade? Yes it is, as it would be in any trade. 

Working in the field of bio-recovery and trauma-scene restoration, is it that imperative to be able to substantiate and show you are educated in your skilled trade? Yes it is, as it would be in any trade. Many insurance adjusters are now basing their claim payouts for bio-recovery services based upon credentials (or lack thereof).

One of the major influencing factors on an adjuster deciding the amount of a claim payout is the credentials of the technician(s) performing the services. One such source the insurance industry is taking advantage of today is cross referencing or verifying certifications on the National Registry of Bio-recovery Technicians, which is maintained by ABRA on their website (www.americanbiorecovery.org). To be placed on the National Registry, one must successfully pass a certification course in person (online certification is not recognized) and then be able to pass ABRA’s basic knowledge exam on bio-recovery.

There are times when we also need to educate the consumer. When a potential client calls and asks what your minimum charge is, we need to ask back to them, “Don’t you want to know what our credentials and qualifications are as well?”

There is an enormous difference between those who mean well and want to render aid in assisting others in a time of need and grief, and those of a professional that seeks out to educate him or herself to be knowledgeable in this trade. For those uneducated individuals engaging in services with good intentions, those good intentions may be paving a way to the grave for them as well as their family. If you are not educated and aware of the possible dangers and risks of bio-recovery work, and are not well-versed in the proper use of PPE, you may be bringing harmful and deadly pathogens home to your family.

It can be both intriguing and fascinating to wonder what goes on behind the yellow tape, and many live vicariously through the “CSI” television shows. Perhaps an article gets read or a documentary on the Discovery Channel is watched that makes someone wonder more about this industry. There also appears to be a growing number of companies that are either unqualified or under-qualified, and are conducting business in an unethical manner. States like New York, Louisiana, California and Florida some of the very few in the country that recognize this potential danger and have stepped up to the plate to regulate the bio-recovery industry. In one state, for example, the only regulation needing to be complied with is the use of a bungee cord to secure medical waste during transport.

No matter what your particular trade or skill, education and continuing education is paramount. You want to promote your professionalism to your clients as well as to your peers. With the ever-changing protocols and updates in OSHA regulations, continuing education is the key, for ignorance is no excuse for breaking the law.