You're Stuck With A Meth Lab Mess.... Now What?

 

Well, Call Us.

 

Here's the gist of what we'll need to do.

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After a lab is seized by law enforcement officials, professionals trained to handle hazardous materials are generally called in to remove lab waste and any bulk chemicals. During this removal, every effort is made to air out the property for the safety of the removal crew. For security reasons, the property is usually closed upon their departure. However, this short-term airing-out may not be sufficient to clear out all contaminants from the air inside the home. We will need to be sure the property has been aired out for several days before cleaning. After the initial airing out, good ventilation should be continued throughout the property’s cleanup.

During the meth cooking process, vapors are given off that can spread and be absorbed by nearby materials. Spilled chemicals, supplies and equipment can further contaminate non-lab items. We will need to remove unnecessary items from the property and dispose of them properly. Items that are visibly contaminated will be be removed from the property and disposed.

If we find suspicious containers or lab equipment at the property, our protocol is to leave the area and contact the local law enforcement agency or fire department. It is possible that some items may have been left behind after a seizure. If the property has been searched by a hazardous materials cleanup team, the items have most likely been identified and are not dangerous. However, some properties may not have been searched or some items may have been overlooked in the debris or confusion of a seizure. Absorbent materials, such as carpeting, drapes, clothing, etc. can accumulate vapors that are dispersed through the air during the cooking process. They also may collect dust and powder from the chemicals involved in the manufacturing process. These materials will be disposed of properly, especially if an odor or discoloration is present. Surfaces, such as walls, counters, floors, ceilings, etc. are porous and can hold contamination from the meth cooking process, especially in those areas where the cooking and preparation were performed. Cleaning these areas is very important as people may come in frequent contact with these surfaces through skin, food preparation, etc. 

If a surface has visible contamination or staining, complete removal of that surface section is performed. This could include removal of wallboard, floor coverings and counters. If this is not possible, intensive cleaning followed by the application of a physical barrier such as paint or epoxy is performed. These areas should be monitored and the barrier maintained to assure that the contamination is contained. 

Ventilation systems (heating, air conditioning) tend to collect fumes and dust and redistribute them throughout a home. The vents, ductwork, filters, and even the walls and ceilings near ventilation ducts can become contaminated. All of the air filters in the system, remove and clean vents, clean the surfaces near system inlets and outlets, and clean the system’s ductwork. 

While some of the waste products generated during meth manufacture may be thrown along the sides of roads or in yards, most are dumped down sinks, drains, and toilets. These waste products can collect in drains, traps, and septic tanks and give off fumes. If a strong chemical odor is coming from household plumbing, a plumbing contractor will be called in for assistance. If the septic tank or yard may be contaminated, contact the local health department. 

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Symptoms of meth exposure may include:

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•Watery, red, and burning eyes, often accompanied by discharge and pain

•Irritation of the mucus membranes, especially in the nose and throat

•Skin irritations, redness, and rashes

•Chest pain and difficulty breathing

•Abdominal pain and diarrhea

•Chronic sneezing, coughing, and congestion

•Adverse effects on the central nervous system

•Moderate or severe headaches

•Dark-colored urine

•Rapid heart rate

•Yellow jaundice

•Fever

•Impairment in mental capabilities

•Hallucinations

•Dizziness

•Headaches

 

Fentanyl can be deadly, so it is vital that you call 911 right away if you suspect an exposure may have occurred. A person exposed to fentanyl may present with the following signs and symptoms:

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Pinpoint pupils.

Weak muscles.

Dizziness.

Confusion.

Extreme sleepiness.

Loss of consciousness.

Profoundly slowed heart beat.

Very low blood pressure.

Dangerously slowed or stopped breathing.

Bluish tint to nails and lips.

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