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.

Michigan law 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 the CDL contamination has been removed.  

Methamphetamine is the most common illegal drug manufactured at CDLs in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has developed guidance to help property owners that includes a list of consultants and contractors who can perform CDL cleanups.    Click here to access the cleanup guidance document.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a document, titled Voluntary Guidelines for Methamphetamine Laboratory Cleanup, providing technical guidance for methamphetamine lab cleanups. The Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act of 2007 required EPA to develop these guidelines, based on the best currently available knowledge in the field of meth lab remediation.

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.
 
Click here for more methamphetamine information resources from the State of Michigan.