The problem of clandestine methamphetamine labs has been a steadily growing problem in Indiana over the past decade. Illegal methamphetamine labs are being discovered in houses, apartments, garages, motel rooms, motor vehicle, storage lockers, and various other places. During the production of methamphetamine, a variety of potentially hazardous and toxic byproducts are produced.

When a lab is discovered, the Indiana State Police typically will remove drugs, chemicals, ingredients, and equipment to be used as evidence. Although it may appear that all potentially dangerous and/or hazardous materials have been removed, often chemical and drug residues remain on nonporous surfaces, in absorbent materials, in sinks, drains, and ventilation systems.

Although normally found in trace amounts, meth lab contaminants pose health threats to persons exposed to them. Short term exposure symptoms may range from headache, nausea, and dizziness which usually go away after several hours, to more severe symptoms as shortness of breath, cough, chest pains, chemical irritation and burns, and even death. There is little known about the health effects of long term exposure. Because of these possible health effects and until a former meth lab has been cleaned, no one should enter the area without appropriate levels of training and use of personal protective equipment. More importantly, no one should rent, purchase, or occupy a former meth lab unless cleanup has occurred.

Generally the first step in a meth lab cleanup is to have an initial assessment. An assessment is necessary to evaluate the potential for exposure on a case-by-case basis. Based on the results of the initial assessment, a cleanup plan can be formulated. Clearance sampling is conducted after the cleanup to verify that applicable cleanup levels have been achieved and to demonstrate that the space is safe to re-occupy. Only after the cleanup levels have been achieved, a Certificate of Decontamination will be issued.

Please contact Aegis to speak with a qualified Meth Lab Inspector if you have any questions or would like to inquire about an inspection and/or cleanup.