Bio-One of Akron decontamination and biohazard cleaning services

For the 3rd Time, Bio-One Appeared on the Inc. 5000, Ranking No. 4,365

Denver, CO August 19, 2022 – Inc. revealed that Bio-One is No. 4,365 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. 
 
Sandi Ellis, President of Bio-One, had this to say about the achievement: “We are honored to be recognized and this is only possible because of our amazing Bio-One owners across the United States. Every Bio-One owner works hard in their community, and we thank them for their time, dedication, and sacrifices.”
 
The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years. 
 
Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23. 
 
“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” said Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today.” 
 
Ellis said, “While the ranking is a wonderful reflection of the company’s growth in the past 12 years, I am also excited for the future of Bio-One. We’re investing in new technology, improving our digital strategies, and are in the middle of launching a new brand. It’s an exciting time to be part of Bio-One!”
 
Bio-One Inc. is the first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise with over 125 locations. Each location is owned and operated locally by caring members of their respective communities. In an effort to boost business growth and impact more areas, Bio-One was acquired by Five Star Franchising last year. Bio-One has been ranked in Entrepreneur magazine’s 43rd Annual Franchise 500 for 2022, and in 2021 placed number one in Entrepreneur’s Best of the Best for Crime Scene Cleaning and Trauma Scene Cleaning.
  
 
CONTACT:
 
Sandi Ellis
(303) 625-6543
Sandi.Ellis@BioOneInc.com

 
More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 
 
Methodology 

Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places. The top 500 companies on the Inc. 5000 are featured in Inc. magazine’s September issue. The entire Inc. 5000 can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000
 
About Inc. 
The world’s most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.
 
For more information on the Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, visit http://conference.inc.com/.

WHEN SOMEONE DIES AT HOME, WHAT DO YOU DO?

 

October 4, 2021

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We are in the business to clean up after death.  Bio-One is often called after someone passes away alone in their home - this is called unattended death or undiscovered death. Body decomposition begins as soon as the person dies, so it is vital to be aware of the possible heath hazards that come with finding a dead body in a residence. 

Bodies that aren't discovered right away can quickly decompose, especially in the warmer and humid months, causing body fluid spillage that can carry bloodborne pathogens and other harmful diseases, such as MRSA, HIV, Hepatitis B and C.  Even if the person is not knowingly infected, they could still be a disease carrier, so treating the scene as a biohazard is of utmost importance.

  • Call the police. First responders will photograph the scene and properly take the body away. This is the first step.
  • Leave the residenceDo not attempt to clean the scene by yourself. No matter the cause - natural, suicide or homicide - chances are there are grisly reminders of the traumatic event that must be disposed of and cleaned.
  • Call a bioremediation company like Bio-One. Fire departments or police do not clean trauma scenes. Once they leave, that is where Bio-One steps in to assist. Bio-One provides compassionate, discreet, professional, on-call biohazard and trauma cleanup. We use proper personal protective gear, approved OSHA-approved methods and hospital-grade cleaners to eliminate any harmful pathogens and diseases.

As owner, Cuyler will work with you to determine whether insurance is available and will handle the insurance claim, if you wish. This allows you to focus on notifying family and friends.

In the days and months ahead, other matters will need to be taken care of.  Here's a helpful list I'm sharing from our sister office, Bio-One Raleigh:

  • Making funeral arrangements
  • Obtaining a death certificate and making copies
  • Contacting Social Security and any other agencies to have benefits stopped
  • Closing bank accounts and credit cards
  • Finding life insurance policies
  • Stopping utilities and stopping or forwarding mail

All these tasks may see overwhelming but you don't have to go through this alone. Bio-One has been providing biohazard and trauma cleanup services since 2011. Our motto of Help First, Business Second means our focus is on the road to recovery for grieving families and communities so they can begin the healing process.

We are local and serve all communities in Northeast Ohio. When you call, day or night, you will speak directly with an owner - no call center or answering machine. Bio-One Akron understands the urgency of what you are going through and will be onsite within hours of your call:  330-888-5665


First Responder Relay Presented by Bio-One, Inc.

We are delighted to announce our sponsorship of the First Responder Relay in Las Vegas on October 16th. The First Responders Relay is a 9 person 48-mile running relay with stages ranging from 4.0 miles to 7.7 miles. The relay is competition comprised of first responder personnel from throughout the United States and the World, and is hosted by the California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF).

There is still time to register, but don't delay! Registration closes September 18.  Visit www.CPAF.org to join us in Las Vegas!

 

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Someone to Clean Up After a Death?

August 19, 2021

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We get this question a lot.  It’s a tough one, because there is no way to really know until we see how much remediation is needed.

For instance, if someone passes away and isn’t discovered for a few weeks, then the cleanup is much more involved than if the person was found earlier.  Without getting into gory details, all I’ll say is as the body decomposes, more areas in the home are impacted.

It seems many people are so worried about the cost that they don’t pick up the phone to consult with a professional crime and trauma scene cleaning company.  But these same folks might not realize:

1. Insurance covers these kinds of services 95% of the time

2. It costs you nothing for us to come out and give you an estimate

Lately, Bio-One has been on numerous jobs to clean up after unattended death.  That’s not uncommon in the Summer when the heat speeds up decomposition.  On at least a couple of occasions, the family member was a distant relative who suddenly “inherited” the job of handling matters.  They seem relieved when they learn insurance will likely cover the remediation costs.  But what if you don’t know what insurance your relative had?  Insurance policies aren’t often found lying around the house, so we sometimes suggest/ask:

1. Is there a mortgage on the home?  If so, then there would be an insurance policy.  Contact the mortgage company

2. Is there a checkbook?  Perhaps an insurance premium was paid

3. Check the mail

This really isn’t the kind of job you should do on your own.  Cleaning up after a death may expose you to biohazards from bloodborne pathogens, not to mention the many emotions involved – there is no reason to be victimized a second time.

Bio-One Akron has the necessary training, licensing and insurance.  We provide our services throughout Northeast Ohio – give us a call and we can come take a look.

 

What causes someone to hoard? How do you treat a Hoarding Disorder?

We sometimes refer to ourselves as Last Responders.  We're the people you call to come in and clean after an extreme event.  Yesterday we were able to see how certain situations unfold before they become an emergency.

 

Bio-One/Akron Hoarding helped conduct a Continuing Education Unit (CEU) for professionals who sometimes aid people in hoarding situations during the course of their work.  The training session was put together by the Summit County Ohio Hoarding Task Force.  My husband, Cuyler, was the presenter.  

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Not only is Cuyler owner of Bio-One, but he is a licensed counselor for both clinical mental health and chemical dependency - his licensures permit him to host this kind of training.

 

The Zoom training session, Introduction to Clutter and Hoarding, was a "sold out" event. 100 people attended - not just locally, but from around the world!

So, what causes someone to hoard?  The behavior can stem from biological, psychological, and/or social components.

 

Biological influences:  Hoarding can be genetic and run in families.  Brain structure can be different.

 

Psychological contributors:  People who hoard often have trouble with problem-solving.

 

Social aspects:  Our consumer culture encourages buying.

 

People with a Hoarding Disorder have unique cognitive processes, and treatment strategies are many.  They may include increasing decision-making abilities, or perhaps improving attention, with the use of a timer.

 

If you're looking for help with hoarding behavior, you may contact the Hoarding Task Force County of Summit ADM Board:

cluterhelp@admboard.org 

(330) 762-3500

 

And if you or someone you know needs help getting a home back in order, you may give us a call at Bio-One!

 

 

 

 

June 27 is PTSD Awareness Day

June 27, 2021

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Post-traumatic stress disorder - once called shell shock or battle fatigue syndrome - is a serious condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a terrifying event. It can happen to anyone, at any age.   

 

Someone experiencing PTSD may relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares, or feel sadness, fear or anger. Any kind of trauma can bring on PTSD: sexual or physical assault, combat, the unexpected death of a loved one, an accident, a natural disaster.

 

 

If symptoms last for a month, it’s time to call your doctorBio-One would like to acknowledge all people suffering from PTSD due to varying circumstances. You are strong and not alone. 

June is National Safety Month: 7 Things You Can Do To Avoid Being a Crime Victim

June 2, 2021

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One of the things I often say when my kids head out is, "stay safe."  But what does that really mean?  June is National Safety Month and the ideal opportunity to spell out more specifically what's intended when I say those two words.  Here are some simple tips to increase your personal safety and possibly prevent you from experiencing an act of violence.  

7 TIPS:

1. Make eye contact with people who concern you.  A would-be attacker now knows you've seen their face.  They are often looking for an easy target and aren't interested in people who will put up a fight, and/or identify them. 

2. Don't worry about being polite.  If you feel uneasy about someone who got into the elevator, simply step out. You don't have to stay on just to avoid an awkward situation.

3. Avoid parking next to vans or large vehicles.  Someone waiting inside can quickly grab you as you're trying to get into your car. 

4. Don't sit in your car, especially at night.  Once you park, get to where you are going. The longer you wait in your car, the more of a target you are. 

5. Be aware of scams. If you see someone needing help on the side of the road, call 9-1-1 and keep driving.  And if you get pulled over alone, you are permitted to call police to verify the person who is pulling you over is a valid police officer.  (Before stopping, it's suggested you put on your flashers and drive the speed limit to a busy, well-lit area while making the call)

6. Practice being aware. Know who is walking behind you. If you're walking alone at night, don't be on the phone, and don't use your earbuds.  These are all described as distracted behavior that attackers look for. 

7. Escape is always the best option. Even if this means you may get hurt in the process, don't be afraid to scream, fight, and do what it takes to get away. Never let anyone take you anywhere without a fight.

A little self awareness can go a long way.  The more you understand about how people are targeted, the better you can make safe decisions that will become second nature to you.  Stay safe!

 

 

U.S. POLICE & FIRE CHAMPIONSHIPS ANNOUNCES PRESENTING SPONSOR: BIO-ONE, INC.

 

May 31, 2021

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The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is proud to announce that the 2021 United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) is now Presented by Bio-One, Inc. 

Operating under the motto, "Help First, Business Second," Bio-One provides high-level decontamination and biohazard cleanup services while offering clients the privacy and compassion needed at difficult times. Bio-One operates in 41 states with over 110 locations and is committed to providing first-class service. 

"We are thrilled to add Bio-One as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2021 USPFC because First Responders warrant our support," said California Police Athletic Federation President LC Collins. "Bio-One’s reputation is second to none, and with their partnership, we can offer first responders a health and wellness outlet.  We look forward to working with them for years to come."

Founded by San Diego Police Lieutenant Veon "Duke" Nyhus, The United States Police & Fire Championships were first held in San Diego in 1967. Duke recognized the need to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among the Public Safety and First Responder community members. 

The USPFC caters to active and retired public safety and first responders who participate in Olympic-style competitions and open to individuals representing firefighters, law enforcement, and officers from corrections, probation, border protection, immigration, and customs across the country. Traditionally athletes compete in 45+ sporting events from biathlon to motocross across 35+ venues in Southern California.

"At Bio-One our support for Law Enforcement and Fire Service Officers is unwavering, and we're thrilled to partner with the California Police Athletic Federation during this memorable event," said Nick-Anthony Zamucen, founder of Bio-One. "We wish each athlete success and look forward to celebrating these everyday heroes."

The 2021 USPFC Presented by Bio-One will take place from June 10th to the 19th in venues across San Diego, California, and strengthen the relationship between First Responders and the community for many years to come!

About the United States Police and Fire Championships

The California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) is the parent organization of two multi-sport programs designed for peace officers and firefighters. The World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) are open to active and retired law enforcement and fire service personnel throughout the world. The United States Police & Fire Championships (USPFC) are open to active or retired public safety and first responder personnel from an eligible agency within the USA. For more information, please visit www.uspfc.org. 

National Police Week Badge

#HELPFIRST FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Bio-One Donates First Aid Kits in Recognition of National Police Week

 

AKRON, OHIO – In recognition of National Police Week, May 9-15, Bio-One thanked first responders by donating first aid kits to Akron, Fairlawn, Bath, Copley, Norton, Cuyahoga Falls, Wadsworth, Medina, Creston, Massillon, Canton, and North Canton Police Departments, and the Wayne County Sheriff's Department as part of the nationwide campaign #HelpFirst for First Responders. Throughout the week, Bio-One offices in 41 states distributed a cumulative of 5,000 first aid kits which included alcohol swabs, Advil, gloves, gauze pads, and an assortment of bandages.

 

The #HelpFirst campaign aligns with the Bio-One motto, Help First, Business Second, and will be used to help officers and community members in the event of a minor medical emergency. 

 

“We are proud to support the members of our local law enforcement” said Cuyler Costanzo, owner of Bio-One. “Their work is often risky and thankless and we are ever so grateful to them for ensuring the safety of our community.”

 

As a 2021 corporate sponsor of the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Bio-One, Inc. also paid tribute to fallen officers during the virtual 33rd Annual Candlelight Vigil on May 13 at 8:00 p.m. The event was broadcast live on Facebook, YouTube, and LawMemorial.org/CV.

 

“We are so thankful for Bio-One’s corporate partnership and their continued support of the Memorial Fund,” said Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund. “This partnership will further bolster the Memorial Fund’s mission of honoring America’s Law Enforcement, as well as provide support for the Museum’s upcoming exhibition opening in September. We are grateful for their commitment.” 

 

Established in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the fallen, telling the story of American law enforcement, and making it safer for those who serve. The Memorial Fund maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., which honors the names of all of the 22,611 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history.  

 

About Bio-One 

Bio-One, a crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, operates in 13 counties in Northeast Ohio. Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, hoarding situations, junk removal, deceased animal recovery, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and much more. Each Bio-One office is independently owned and operated by a member of the local community. For more information about Bio-One, visit us at BioOneAkron.com.

 

 

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Bio-One co-owner Babs Costanzo delivers first aid kits to Norton Police Chief John Dalessandro as a show of thanks during National Police Week.

Candlelight Vigil

May 13, 2021

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We sleep peacefully in our beds at night because brave men and women have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting. Bio-One works closely with law enforcement nationwide and we deeply value their relentless efforts and countless sacrifices. In recognition of last night's National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Candlelight Vigil, we pay tribute to 394 law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. To the loved ones of the fallen, the entire Bio-One family sends our deepest gratitude and utmost respect. Thank you. You are not forgotten.