Illegal meth labs: cleanup raises health and environmental concerns. (EH Update).

The production, sale, and use of methamphetamines are a growing problem in the United States. While the use and sale of methamphetamines create social and economic problems, the production of meth poses a serious environmental threat. Makeshift laboratories continue to be discovered around the country in houses, apartments, motels, trailers, sheds, and autos. In 1999, DEA authorities seized over 2,000 meth labs in the United States. Although law enforcement usually handles the majority of the cleanup and disposal of these makeshift laboratories, dangerous chemical residue and contamination may be left on surfaces of absorbent materials (e.g., carpets, furniture, drapes), sinks, drains, and ventilation systems.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) is trying to help facilitate the cleanup and disposal of these labs by identifying the contaminants found. This process has proven to be complicated, because many different "recipes" can be used for the creation of meth. Also, the production of methamphetamines often is performed in different stages at different locations. Preliminary findings indicate that some of the major methamphetamine-related contaminants include VOCs, acids, bases, explosives, metals, iodine, and phosphorous.

The potential health effects of exposure to meth contaminants vary depending on the specific chemicals, the concentration levels, the length of exposure, and the health of the person exposed. The potential health risks associated with exposure include respiratory problems, skin and eye irritation, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Also, some meth-related VOC chemicals either are known or suspected carcinogens.

Because methamphetamine labs are still an emerging problem, there are no uniform guidelines, regulations, or standards for cleanup. Potential cleanup plans have ranged from leaving the lab alone to demolishing everything on the property. Various agencies are working to develop cleanup guidance and regulations that not only protect the public but also are practical and economical for property owners. It is recommended that sampling and cleanup be performed by professionals trained in hazardous material handling and removal. Owners who choose to clean up their own properties should familiarize themselves with the potential hazards and use appropriate protective equipment.

(Adapted, with permission, from The Monitor, Vol. 4, No. 1, 2003, published by Precision Analytical Laboratories, a division of Aerotech Laboratories. Precision Analytical can be reached by phone at [phone] or on the Web at http://wwwpalabs.com; Aerotech can be reached at [phone] or http://www.aerotechlabs.com.)