Tear Gas Cleanup and Remediation Process

Tear gas incidents leave behind more than just physical discomfort; the lingering residue can infiltrate furniture, carpets, and HVAC systems, posing ongoing health risks. Proper cleanup is essential to restore safety and livability to affected spaces. Here are four critical tips for managing tear gas contamination effectively.

1. Understand the Risks of Tear Gas Residue

Tear gas, while labeled non-lethal, contains irritants such as CS gas, CN gas, or pepper spray (OC gas). These chemicals cling to surfaces and can cause prolonged irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Common symptoms include:

Burning eyes and skin
Difficulty breathing
Persistent cough and chest discomfort

The residue can penetrate walls, floors, and ventilation systems, making professional remediation essential to eliminate hidden contamination.

2. Avoid DIY Cleaning

Attempting to clean tear gas residue with household tools or cleaners like vinegar or bleach can spread contamination and increase health risks. Tear gas residue can:

Penetrate porous surfaces such as carpets, drywall, and upholstery
Be recirculated through HVAC systems
Cause re-exposure even after apparent cleanup. Professional cleaning teams have the specialized tools, knowledge, and protective equipment to safely remove tear gas residue and restore your property.

3. Protect Yourself During Exposure

If you’ve been exposed to tear gas, act quickly to minimize its effects:

Leave the Area Immediately: Move to fresh air to reduce exposure.
Rinse Your Eyes: Use cold water to flush contaminants, avoiding contact with skin or clothing.
Wash Your Body and Clothes: Use cold water only, as hot water opens pores and allows chemicals to penetrate further.
Avoid Touching Your Face: Wash hands thoroughly to prevent spreading irritants.

4. Trust Professional Tear Gas Cleanup Services

Cleaning up tear gas residue is a challenging and hazardous process that requires trained professionals. ServiceMaster BioClean provides expert remediation using advanced cleaning techniques and EPA-approved disinfectants to ensure:

Thorough removal of visible and hidden residues
Decontamination of HVAC systems and hard-to-reach areas
Restoration of the property to a safe and habitable condition

Why ServiceMaster BioClean?

With decades of experience, ServiceMaster BioClean is a trusted partner for trauma and biohazard cleanup. Our teams are certified, compassionate, and equipped to handle the complexities of tear gas remediation.