Meth Lab Cleanup Services & Meth Lab Remediation
Methamphetamine, also known as “meth,” “speed,” “crank,” “crystal” and “ice,” is a very nasty “stimulant” (drug) that wreaks havoc on the users central nervous system, skin, teeth, hair, bones, and psyche. Meth is commonly manufactured in illegal, hidden laboratories inside hotels, apartments, vehicles, RVS, residential homes, and outdoor locations. Some of these homes are rented, others are overrun by squatters or transients. We have even found labs in attics “rented” out by tenants who are having a hard time keeping their place.
Meth is made by mixing various forms of amphetamine (which can be found over the counter in Sudafed or other cold pills) with chemicals such as battery acid, drain cleaner, lantern fuel and antifreeze. These dangerous chemicals are potentially explosive when mixed.
Because the meth cooks are drug users themselves they can be careless or disoriented while preparing product which ads to the danger of fires and explosions. If there is a fire emergency in a potential meth lab, DO NOT ENTER the property and let the first responders know that this is a “hazmat emergency” due to the toxic fumes from these chemicals.
Besides the inherent fire damage, the illegal laboratories create massive amounts of toxic waste. Illegal production of one pound of methamphetamine produces five pounds of waste. People exposed to this waste material can become poisoned and sick.
We provide services in the following locations:
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WHAT HAPPENS NOW?
When a meth lab is shut down, some equipment may be removed by law enforcement. The remaining paraphernalia, or cooking equipment will need to be properly disposed by an environmental company like The BioClean Team. The property will also be contaminated with methamphetamine and hazardous chemical residues.
The safest way to clean up a former methamphetamine (meth) lab is to hire an environmental company, like THE BioClean Team, trained in hazardous waste removal and cleanup (see our certifications and training HERE *please link to about us page or certs at bottom of page).
Meanwhile, PLEASE make sure that ANYONE near or about to enter the property is FULLY aware of the hazardous materials and toxic fumes present in the property.
We suggest posting “no trespassing” and “hazmat” sign around the property as well as securing the property with a board up while we complete our risk assessment and containment for cleanup.
We strongly advise against entering the property, but if you MUST for any reason, please wear proper protective equipment. If at all possible retain a BioClean Team technical as an escort during this time and wear a full respirator, long sleeves, and facial covering as chemicals may be absorbed by the skin. Also, be aware that general sanitation issues frequently exist at former meth labs and may include filth, pest infestations, and hypodermic needle hazards. Thick work gloves, sturdy closed-toed shoes, eye protection should be worn.
AGAIN: WE DO NOT SUGGEST ENTERING THE PROPERTY.
The chemicals may be odorless, tasteless, and invisible, and you can get VERY ILL.
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Meth Lab Cleanup Procedures
If the property is suspected by the homeowners versus if the homeowner has received an order issued pursuant to Section 25400.22 that property owned by that person is contaminated by a methamphetamine laboratory activity, will differ in approach due to the necessity to follow the city submission documents. The BioClean Team has worked with multiple city code enforcement divisions and is familiar with the submission of preliminary site assessment work plans to the local health officers.
1. We work with our trusted environmental hygienist to determine pre-remediation levels of all possible contaminants.
2. Site plan, risk assessment, and containment procedural plan is formulated and executed with all technicians to be on site.
3. Open to air all areas, short term ventilation protocol prior to clean up procedures to decrease toxic fumes during cleanup.
4. Containment, air quality control measures are set up. (HEPA filtration fans, ventilation blowers; HVAC [off and seal])
5. Affected equipment, supplies, contaminated items, hypodermic needles, any porous items that may have absorbed toxic chemicals are sealed and removed. Highly toxic materials will be disposed as hazardous material disposal following all transport and disposal regulations.
6. Absorbent material removal: carpet, drapes, and clothing can absorb chemical fumes, dusts, or powders involved in manufacturing process. (It is generally less expensive to remove all suspect items than take samples and have them analyzed, however, we will work with the client regarding these items and create a plan for remediation that is safe and considers all options).
7. HEPA vacuuming of all particulate (all surface areas).
8. Encapsulation cleaning using EPA registered environmental residue wash specific for the encapsulation of chemical rescue; all surface areas, and multiple techniques are sued in higher concentration areas.
*If a surface has visible contamination or staining, complete removal and replacement of that surface is recommended. This could include removal and replacement of appliances, plumbing fixtures, wallboard, floor coverings, and countertops.
9. Post remediation sampling and clearance tests. Certificate of treatment issued for liability reduction to property owner.
While there is no method of cleaning that will guarantee “complete” safety, the procedures followed by The BioClean Technicians are best practice and follow EPA guidelines and state regulations for disposal and reducing exposures to the toxic chemicals used in methamphetamine manufacturing. Evidenced by clearance testing and certificates of treatment, the property owner can reduce his or her liability in this unfortunate situation.
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Post-Meth Lab Cleanup Considerations
HVAC
The BioClean Team will have sealed the HVAC vents and cleaned the ducts using a qualified HVAC company. Air filter will be replaced. It is suggested to retest the HVAC after service has been restored. If chemicals are persistent in the ducts after thorough cleaning and filter, you may need further cleaning and/or duct replacement.
Plumbing
In many properties, waste products generated during illegal drug manufacturing are dumped down sinks, drains and toilets. These products can collect in drains, traps and septic tanks and give off fumes.
The BioClean Team can help you vet an experienced plumbing contractor to flush waste traps or pull waste water dependent on the system you have.
Drywall, Appliances Replacement
Any items removed due to damage or contamination should be replaced. Appliances, counters, drywall, flooring all may be subject to removal in this process.
The BioClean Team can assist in a plan for order of repair and replacement, and vet subcontractors if needed.
Repainting
After the interior surfaces are cleaned, cleared, and all drywall has been replaced/ patched an experienced painter should be enlisted. Wall surfaces should be repainted with an oil-based paint, epoxy, or polyurethane primer followed by an additional coat of paint. Painting helps to provide a barrier between the previous contaminated surfaces and anyone who may come in contact with the surface.
The BioClean Team can help you vet an experienced painter who understands the importance and types of paints to be used in this scenario.
We do not get “referral fees” for subcontractor services. Our MAIN goal is to assist you in this process and make it as seamless as possible. We understand you are going through a tragic situation and need as MUCH support as possible. We will be with you every step of the way, even AFTER our services are complete
Why Choose The BioClean Team?
*Locally Owned *Properly Insured *Professionally Licensed
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has guidelines for Methamphetamine Laboratory Cleanup. These guidelines are based on an extensive review of the best available science and practices for cleanup. We follow federal EPA guidelines, state regulations, AND have further training in hazardous material cleaning, transport, and disposal.
Technicians are experienced in all levels of waste cleanup, hazardous waste awareness and identification, air quality control measures, and have ongoing certification and training incentives.
16 Meth Lab Remediations
18 Marijuana Grow House Remediations
11 Tear Gas Remediations
Crime and Trauma Scene Decontamination Specialists (ABRA & IICRC Certified Technicians)
40 Hour Hazwoper in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120
Bloodborne Pathogen Training in Accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1030
Respiratory Protection Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.134
Hazard Communication Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1200
Personal Protective Equipment Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.132.
Awareness-Level Fall Protection Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910, 66 Appendix C
Awareness-Level Permit- Required Confined Spaces Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.146
Awareness-Level Lock Out/Tag Out Training in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.147