What Happens When an Unattended Death Occurs?

An unattended death is when a person dies and the body is not discovered for days or longer period of time. Unattended deaths are not uncommon because many people live alone now-a-days. These people tend to keep to themselves and do not socialize as much as others. Hence, when they pass away, it takes longer for someone to know that they are gone.

Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy for the family members. And handling the clean-up can be even more traumatic. The family should not have to deal with this mess alone. It is best to avail of the services of professional cleaners to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas. The technician will ensure there is no further damage to your property.

As the body decomposes, it releases body fluids and potentially harmful bacteria that can make one sick and negatively affect the home and environment. There are generally five stages of decomposition:

Fresh: This stage begins immediately after the heart stops beating and visible changes caused by decomposition are limited. The small amount of oxygen remaining in the body is quickly depleted. The body releases enzymes that begin eating the cells from the inside out.

Bloat: This stage provides the first clear visual sign that microbial proliferation is underway. The accumulation of gases within the bodily cavity leads to the distention of the stomach and gives a cadaver its overall bloated appearance. The build-up of pressure along with the loss of the skin elasticity may also cause the body to rupture.

Active Decay:  During this period there is greatest mass loss. This happens due to maggots feeding of the body and the purging of decomposition fluids into the surrounding environment. This leads to strong and offensive odours being emitted.

Advanced Decay: The body loses most of its mass during this stage as its soft tissue decomposes and all organs, muscles, and skin become liquefied. By the end of this stage only hair, bones and cartilage remain. 

Dry/Remains/Skeletonization: After most of the body tissues have decayed and been eaten away by insects, the skeleton is still greasy from the remaining soft tissues and body fluids. Over time, those tissues lose moisture and begin to dry out and break down from environmental factors. Eventually, only the skeleton will remain, completely exposed and free from any tissues and fluids.

Bio Cleanse Services provides unattended death cleanup services to families and property owners. Our bioremediation specialists wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow approved safety and sanitation procedures to prevent the spread of diseases and bacteria.

Let us help lift the burden of the cleaning process, off your shoulders so you can begin moving on from this traumatic event. We service the areas of Sydney, Goulburn, Batemans Bay, Canberra & surrounding suburbs of NSW. Call now on 0412 547 547 or visit our website.