Cleanup of clandestine meth labs can prove costly

Methamphetamine, also known as "speed" or "crank," is a potent central nervous stimulant. The drug is illegally produced in makeshift labs.

Meth labs have been and continue to be a growing problem in North Idaho. Sandpoint and its surrounding areas are not exempt from this growing issue. Labs are discovered in houses, garages, storage sheds, apartments, motel rooms, and even in motor vehicles.

In this week's article I thought I would explore this problem and the cleanup process after police officials have finished their investigation.

Unfortunately for the property owner these homes are left in shambles. Methamphetamine makers (cooks) usually live like "pack rats." Their homes are filled with garbage and lots of debris. Manufacturing of meth creates about seven or more pounds of hazardous waste and trash for each pound.

In the manufacturing of this substance, there are hundreds of chemicals that are used interchangeably to produce meth, e.g., Freon, ether (starting fluid), toluene (paint thinner), sulfuric acid (drain cleaner), anhydrous ammonia, iodine, muriatic acid, lithium (camera batteries), red phosphorus, sodium hydroxides (lye), etc. …

During the cooking process, gross contamination occurs because of spills, boil-overs, explosion, these chemicals and their fumes contaminate every square inch of the property that they are made in. Household materials such as carpeting, wallboard, ceiling tile and fabrics absorb these fumes. If the chemicals are dumped in a septic system or on the ground, soil or groundwater may become contaminated as well.

After a bust and seizure of a meth lab, there is often a low to medium exposure risk to the chemical residue. which can produce various health effects to others who are unintentionally exposed. These contaminates have to be cleaned up before the property can be re-occupied. This process usually requires removal of all trash, carpets, furniture, and drapes.

Neutralizing chemicals must be applied to all vertical and horizontal surfaces. Stained surfaces such as wallboard, floor covering, and counters should be encapsulated or removed. Ventilation systems (heating and air conditioning) tend to collect fumes and dust which will redistribute the fumes throughout the home when activated. These systems must be cleaned and air filters replaced. Sinks, drains, and toilets are frequently used for the disposal of waste products generated during the meth manufacturing process. These products collect in drains, traps, and septic systems. The sewage systems must be flushed and the septic tank pumped out.

The cleanup process must be detailed and thorough to ensure new occupants are not affected by the residue left behind from the lab. Failure to do so creates continued liability for the property owner.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?