A new rule went into effect on Friday for the inspection and cleanup of former clandestine drug laboratories, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) said.

The rule is intended to prevent people from occupying residences and motel rooms where interior surfaces were coated with the hazardous residue of drug-making.

“Flammable solvents, acids, strong caustics, combustible metals, and anhydrous ammonia used in the manufacturing process produce phosphine gas, sodium, lithium, lead, and mercury that contaminate porous wall and floor coverings, heat and air conditioning vents, and furnishings,” IDEM said. “Children may be at greater risk for exposure to chemicals in former illegal laboratories due to typical child behavior, such as crawling and placing objects and hands in their mouths.”

“Under the new rule,” IDEM explained, “a qualified inspector must check for and clean up the hazardous residue from interior surfaces before new occupants can move into houses, apartments, and hotel rooms where drugs were manufactured. The rule also establishes cleanup levels tat must be attained and a list of contractors who are qualified to inspect and clean up the former site.”

Property owners can find the qualified inspector list on IDEM’s website at www.idem.IN.gov/programs/land/drug_lab

 IDEM maintains the qualified inspector list and provides training to contractors who want to become qualified inspectors.

“Property owners now have a way to provide new occupants or prospective purchasers with credible certification that the living space has been cleaned up to state standards,” said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. “I encourage all property owners, realtors, health departments, and cleanup inspectors to visit our website for more information.”

The new rule was included in Senate Enrolled Act 444, enacted in 2005.

Posted 3/26/2007