NCJ Number
122160
Journal
State Peace Officers Journal Volume: 38 Issue: 3 Dated: (1989) Pages: 33-36,90
Date Published
1989
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Clandestine drug laboratories, manufacturing a variety of controlled substances (including methamphetamine, amphetamine, methadone, phencyclidine, fentanyl, and MDMA), pose a significant threat to the safety of law enforcement officers who investigate, search, and seize the labs. Illegal drug labs also threaten the environment with chemical contamination.
Abstract
The chemicals used are often toxic or highly flammable. Runoff of chemicals can contaminate water sources or soil, and toxic vapors may permeate buildings. Police agencies can face civil liability for inadequate training, improper handling and storage of chemical waste, and negligent decontamination procedures. According to a survey by the Institute for Law and Justice (ILJ), the number of clandestine labs is proliferating, and this trend is expected to continue as manufacturers of illegal synthetic drugs take advantage of computer and communications technology. Law enforcement handling procedures for hazardous substances are defined by the regulations of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Employers are required to communicate clear and unambiguous warnings on the hazards of chemical substances to employees; train all affected employees; provide proper protective equipment; and monitor the health of exposed employees. Law enforcement agencies receive tips leading to seizures of clandestine labs; tracking precursor chemicals and lab glassware are other common techniques. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has proposed new recordkeeping regulations for chemical supply companies to assist in detecting illegal labs. Clandestine lab raid and seizure procedures include pre-raid planning, initial entry, site assessment, and processing and dismantling the lab. DEA is legally liable for the cleanup disposal of the clandestine labs that it handles; the agency contracts with a licensed hazardous waste disposal company, then posts a warning sign on the site and warns the legal owner of the property. An interagency task force has been created to formulate, test, and implement a program for cleanup and disposal of wastes. In addition, the Bureau of Justice Assistance has funded four State and one city agencies to develop model clandestine lab programs. In general, law enforcement agencies should develop and document policies and procedures, develop safety training and medical screening for employees, provide adequate protective equipment, and contract with an outside company.