March 15, 2007

In response to changes in state law, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has released a draft Cleanup of Clandestine Drug Laboratory (CDL) Guidance manual. 

Michigan Public Act 260 (MCL 333.12103) and 258 (MCL 125.485a) of 2006 authorized MDCH to develop guidance for the assessment and cleanup of indoor environments that have been used as CDLs.

MDCH invites the interested public to provide comments on the Draft Cleanup of Clandestine Drug Laboratory Guidance manual.  Electronic copies are available on the MDCH website at www.michigan.gov/meth.  A printed copy of the guidelines can also be requested by calling 1-800-648-6942.

The manufacturing and use of illegal drugs results in the release of chemical precursors, and the drug itself, into the indoor air.  These chemicals settle onto walls, floors, furniture, personal belongings, and other surfaces. 

Chemicals can also be spilled causing contamination. People who enter or live in former CDLs can be exposed to this contamination through breathing the air or touching contaminated surfaces.  Small children may be at particular risk of exposure because they engage in behavior that will transfer contaminants from objects or their hands to their mouths where the chemicals are ingested.

Comments should be addressed to Linda D. Dykema, Michigan Department of Community Health, Division of Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Capitol View Building, P.O. Box 30195, Lansing, Michigan 48909.  Comments may be sent via e-mail to dykemal@michigan.gov.  People may also call the toll-free telephone number, 1‑800‑648-6942 (1-800-MI‑TOXIC).  Comments on the Public Health Consultation must be received by May 15, 2007.  All comments received will be evaluated and considered for incorporation into the manual.

Resources and information about methamphetamine and other illicit drugs may be found at http://www.michigan.gov/meth.

###