Introduction

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) are working together to help educate the citizens of Kansas on the dangers of methamphetamine ("meth"). The Chemical Control Act was passed on July 1, 1999, initiating an education and notification program and a chemical cleanup program associated with meth labs.

Meth is produced in illegal clandestine drug laboratories that are commonly found in motels; rural areas away from the general public; and residential areas, including houses, apartments, and garages. Mobile labs have also been found in vehicles and discarded along roadsides or parking lots.

Methamphetamine labs commonly have an unusually sweet or strong odor such as ether, ammonia, or auto parts cleaner. The windows of buildings are often covered, blacked out or frosted to prevent any one seeing inside the structure containing the lab. Sporadic traffic throughout the day and night and unusual trash containing large amounts of empty anti-freeze containers, camping fuel cans, battery parts, stained coffee filters, drain cleaners, and glassware are common attributes of meth labs.

Meth and the Environment

Meth labs have the potential to contaminate drinking water supplies, soil and air, causing a great danger to nearby residences. Meth labs are highly explosive and can cause health problems including respiratory illness, skin and eye irritation, headaches, nausea and dizziness. KDHE's cleanup of meth labs is conducted to ensure the safety of the citizens of Kansas and our natural resources.  Click this link for information on Cleaning Up Former Methamphetamine Labs.