A clandestine drug lab orCDLis a place where chemicals and equipment are used to make illegal drugs. CDLs can be found in homes, motel and hotel rooms, apartments, house trailers, mobile trailers, commercial buildings, cars, boats, and outbuildings such as sheds or pole barns.
Chemical gases and the drug itself are released into the air when illegal drugs are made. These chemicals settle out onto walls, floors, furniture and personal belongings. Chemicals can also be spilled onto surfaces. People who visit or live in former CDLs can breathe these chemicals and drugs in the air or touch them on surfaces. Small children are more likely to be harmed by these chemicals because their bodies are still developing and because they often touch contaminated surfaces and put dirty toys and hands into their mouths.
Michiganlaw makes the property owner responsible for clean up of a CDL. The owner may need to hire a consultant or a contractor to do the work needed to be sure all theCDLcontamination has been removed.
Methamphetamine is the most common illegal drug manufactured at CDLs inMichigan. The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has developed guidance to help property owners that includes a list of consultants and contractors who can performCDLcleanups.Click here to access the cleanup guidance document.
If you find meth lab waste left outdoors can be extrememly hazardous. Call authorities immediately if you come across suspicious waste.
Children are often at great risk of harm due to adult methamphetamine activities. Read more about Children At Risk.
Report suspected activity to the Meth Tip hotline.