Clandestine Drug Lab Cleanup Presented by Jonelle Fenton-Wallace, R.S. Environmental Health Specialist Snohomish Health District Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force

Snohomish Health District Is involved with meth lab investigations because we are required by law to do so

Washington Legislature l Chemical contamination at meth lab sites l Residue could harm tenants or buyers l Decontamination by certified contractors

Chapter RCW CONTAMINATED PROPERTIES Chapter WAC DECONTAMINATION of ILLEGAL DRUG MANUFACTURING or STORAGE SITES SHD Sanitary Code Chapter 11 Supplemental Rules & Regulations Chapter RCW CONTAMINATED PROPERTIES (Effective 1990) Chapter WAC DECONTAMINATION of ILLEGAL DRUG MANUFACTURING or STORAGE SITES (Effective 1991) SHD Sanitary Code Chapter 11 Supplemental Rules & Regulations (Effective 2003)

Local health jurisdictions must l Post a warning on suspect meth properties

Hazardous by drug lab law l Hazardous substances as defined in RCW D.020 –flammable solvents, acids, bases, etc. l Precursor substances as defined in RCW –ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, etc.

Local health jurisdictions must l Assess the property – Presence of chemicals –Glassware & paraphernalia –Meth presence exceeds state standard

Local health jurisdictions must l Issue an unfit-for-use Order –To property owner and occupants –Filed with county auditor l Notify the state Department of Health –DOH lists contaminated properties:

Local health jurisdictions must l Oversee decontamination –DOH-certified contractor only –Department of Health guidelines –Model Toxics Control Act –State solid & hazardous waste regulations

Local health jurisdictions must l Confirm decontamination –Check contractor report & records –Post-cleanup tests

Property owners l Responsible for activity on their property l Pay meth lab cleanup costs

Property owners l Can prevent illegal drug activity l Know the signs of an illegal drug lab: –Unusual odors –Excessive garbage –Blackened or covered windows –Many cars at all hours

Methamphetamine lab identification