Meth Testing Services

Cinnaminson, New Jersey, June 12, 2023

Multiple media outlets recently reported on the discovery of a suspected meth lab by Drug Enforcement Administration agents in Hawaii. The find resulted in the temporary evacuation of a number of surrounding properties after dangerous chemicals were discovered in the home.

Unfortunately, cases like this one happen all across the country even though much of the methamphetamine abused in the United States now comes from drug trafficking organizations that manufacture it in foreign super labs. Some is still made domestically in clandestine laboratories that put people living in these properties at risk, and could also harm neighbors and first responders. 

In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published its Voluntary Guidelines for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Laboratory Cleanup. In it, EPA lists chemicals used in meth production and their many health hazards. They include acetone, ammonium nitrate, anhydrous ammonia, camping fuel, ether, hydriodic acid, hydrogen chloride gas, hydrogen peroxide, iodine, isopropyl alcohol, lithium metal, methanol, mineral spirits, muriatic acid, pseudoephedrine, red phosphorous, sodium hydroxide, sodium metal, sulfuric acid and toluene.

“Meth labs have been found everywhere from secluded rural areas to residential, commercial and industrial districts, including in single family homes, apartments, businesses, RVs and even hotels,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Its production involves dangerous and explosive chemicals. Producing a pound of meth also creates many pounds of toxic waste. This hazardous waste is often disposed of down a drain or dumped outdoors. These properties can also be a threat for future building occupants as residues may be left on surfaces, and materials such as carpeting, wallboard, ceiling tiles, furniture and fabric can easily absorb spilled or vaporized chemicals.”

To help in these situations, EMSL Analytical offers laboratory testing services, sampling supplies and easy-to-use Methamphetamine Test Kits. These tests are used to identify unknown substances and chemical residues, and also for confirming remediation efforts have been successful. EMSL also recently sponsored an educational video about meth labs and building occupant exposure risks that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/Mt_P591sBAo 

To learn more about testing for methamphetamine, drug residues and toxic chemicals, 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 with locations 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, VOCs, 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 EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA 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.