NCJ Number
228494
Date Published
October 2009
Length
48 pages
Annotation
Voluntary guidelines are outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on methamphetamine laboratory cleanup.
Abstract
The production and use of methamphetamine (meth) across the United States poses considerable challenges to the Nation. Meth is easy to make, is highly addictive, and its production and use can have serious impacts on human health and the environment. In 2007, the Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act was passed, which directed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish voluntary guidelines for the remediation of former meth labs based on the best currently available scientific knowledge. In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prepared this document outlining voluntary cleanup guidelines to homeowners, cleanup contractors, industrial hygienists, policymakers, and others involved in meth lab mediation. It begins with background information on quantitative meth remediation standards from across the United States. Next, it presents users with a possible sequence of remediation activities from securing the site to delivering the final report. Once the process of remediation is understood, users find the best practices on how to clean specific items and/or materials found within a former meth lab, such as walls, floors, fabrics, and electronics. The document concludes with detailed information on sampling techniques and methods. Endnotes and appendixes A-F