You probably thought that tear gas cleanup was a walk in the park. Contrary to popular opinion, the routine is one of the most daunting cleanup services. As a challenge in structural maintenance, tear gas cleanup is as dangerous as it is complicated.

The dangers of tear gas

Tear gas is manufactured such that it can disable its victims. Despite the different types, when tear gas releases the harmful inhalant, the mucous membrane becomes susceptible, causing severing coughing or tears. On the skin, the toxic effect is felt as a burning sensation. If this is how it affects the victims, you can imagine the risks in tear gas cleanup itself.

More so, tear gas is contained in canisters. The launchers containing these canisters, heat them to aid the effective dispersion of the gas. Since the particles are quite heavy, they settle but in the presence of heat, can convert to gas to recontaminate the area. Considering that law enforcement agents launch hundreds of canisters at a go, the magnitude of tear gas cleanup required is robust.

Even though the gas disarms suspects effectively, the factors above are responsible for the daunting nature of tear gas. Again, the slightest tear gas powder that isn’t removed from the property can cause recontamination, which may lead to the evacuation of property. Bear in mind that tear gas is inherently dense – meaning that particles settle downward. You must start the cleaning process from the top floors and work your way down the building.

Sniff tests

There is no calibration that measures tear gas residues. Therefore, you can only determine residues by proper inspection of different areas on the property. When you enter a room and feel the faintest effect of tear gas, the cleanup process must be repeated. Known as the ‘sniff test’, the simple inhalation of air in inspected areas gives clues about residual tear gas. It is recommended that the sniff test is performed by every member of the tear gas cleanup team for qualitative agreement.

You need an HVAC company onboard

On completing the remediation process, clean the air ducts or hire a professional HVAC company for the job. If the HVAC is turned back on with lingering residue, recontamination is possible. Before the tear gas cleanup process begins, you must recruit a reputable HVAC specialist for this critical step.

Cross-contamination control is also an overwhelming challenge in tear gas cleanup. Three factors are responsible for cross-contamination:

• Presence of biohazards
• Amount of tear gas used
• Size of the structure

Depending on the severity of the three factors, you can handle the situation successfully.

How long does tear gas cleanup take?

Tear gas cleanup may take four to fourteen days. Where there is tear gas pollution, you must start with a qualitative assessment of the situation to determine the most appropriate remediation option. Also, both state and federal tear gas cleanup regulations must be followed accordingly. As a process that requires critical and meticulous approach, the property must be restored to safe living conditions.