Methamphetamine Testing

Last month, the Harris County Special Investigations Division in Texas discovered an active crystal meth laboratory in a home with approximately $2 million worth of the drug on the property. A woman was arrested and a minor was taken by Child Protective Services as specially trained officers in hazmat suits entered the home to the shock of neighbors.

Sadly, clandestine laboratories making methamphetamine (meth) are still being found across the country. These meth labs are dangerous places when in use, and for a long time afterwards if they are not properly remediated. This is due to the toxic and explosive chemicals used in the production of the illicit drug.

Some of the chemicals commonly used to manufacture meth include flammable and volatile solvents such as methanol, ether, benzene, methylene chloride, and trichloroethane. Other chemicals may include muriatic acid, sodium hydroxide, and ammonia to name a few.   

“A number of these chemicals can contaminate carpeting, wallboard, ceiling tiles, furniture, and fabrics that absorb spilled or vaporized chemicals,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Anyone, and especially children that live in a home that was once used to produce meth, can be exposed to these hazards left behind. At EMSL, our scientists work to detect toxic chemicals and meth residues to identify exposure risks and to confirm remediation efforts have been successful. These services help to ensure future building occupants do not unknowingly put themselves at risk.”

With laboratories across the United States and Canada, EMSL Analytical offers laboratory testing services, sampling supplies, and easy-to-use Methamphetamine Test Kits. They have even sponsored an instructional video that describes common meth sampling techniques that can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/ADQbHagMJ10

To learn more about methamphetamine chemical, residue, and indoor air quality testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675. To access Methamphetamine Test Kits for detecting surface residues, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com. 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.