Last week we discussed the basics of hiring a decontamination company. This week, we’re going to expand on that topic and focus a bit more on some state-specific information. We’ll start by looking at a few advantages of hiring a Certified Decontamination Specialist (CDS) right here in Utah. We’ll also provide some insight into where and how to find them.
If you read last week’s post, you already know a bit about the benefits of utilizing the right professional. For our first time readers, a CDS can expedite the meth removal process and potentially save you a lot of money. In fact, the average house takes our crew about two weeks to fully decontaminate. However, most owners need 2-3 months to complete their work plan. (Or longer, if their final report doesn’t meet state standards.) And, yes, expenses tend to stack up over time.
Now, before we jump into the other advantages of hiring a CDS, please keep in mind that each state sets its own regulations for hazardous waste. Also, we’re going to discuss these topics from our personal experience rather than attempt a broad generalization. So this information might vary depending on location and company.
Advantages of Hiring Utah Certified Decontamination Specialists
- Becoming a CDS requires extensive training in decontamination. That means a CDS is more likely to do the job right and to perform accurate testing. When dealing with a dangerous substance like meth, accuracy counts. Your health and safety are not things to gamble with.
This isn’t to say owners can’t perform effective decontamination. However, we’ve never seen an owner successfully pass their property on the first try. Not only does that increase costs, but it also suggests ineffective and unsafe meth removal. On the other hand, a CDS has the advantage of expertise, so they are usually more thorough and effective. - CDS training also includes local regulations. That saves our customers hours of research and lengthy phone calls. (Or unexpected fines or delays due to misinformation.)
- In Utah, only the owner of record or a CDS can enter a contaminated property. That means if you choose to go it alone, it’s an entirely solo job. You see, you can elect to risk your own personal exposure and injury during decontamination. However, without the proper training and certifications, you can’t extend those risks to others.
Professional decontamination companies don’t have the same limitations. They can enter your property as a team, which is faster and more efficient. - At AEI Decon, we own our equipment, so you can avoid the hassle of extra shopping and renting. (We find this often saves our customers money on its own.) We use our own 14 cubic yards dump trailer. That means we’re discrete and won’t leave hazardous waste out in your neighborhood overnight.
- We guarantee our work. This matters, because on your own – there are simply no guarantees that your property will pass. With a company like AEI Decon, you can rest easy knowing the job’s done right.
How Can I Find a Utah Certified Decontamination Specialist?
As we said in last week’s post: each situation is different. When it comes to meth removal, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, we do recommend hiring a professional, but it’s really up to you. Just remember that decontamination is a detailed process. Make sure to get a second opinion and ask questions before committing to a decontamination project on your own.
If you’re ready to hire a professional decon company, then you have a few options. The UDEQ maintains a list of Utah Certified Decontamination Specialists. However, it doesn’t include any phone numbers or websites. So you’ll have to do the legwork to find more information.
If you happen to live outside of Utah, check with your local health department. They may maintain a similar list.
Luckily, our Utah neighbors have another option that allows them to skip all that: giving AEI Decon a call. We’re here to help with all your testing, decontamination, or consultation needs. We’ll make sure you find the right help for the job. Give us a call today at (801) 888-6698.
Image by RENE RAUSCHENBERGER from Pixabay – text added to the original.
