FACTSHEET 5

Clandestine Drug Laboratories
Hazard Identification & Safety Information

Clandestine Drug Laboratory Indicators

From Outside

Chemical odours, coming from the building, rubbish or detached buildings. The odours can be sweet, bitter, ammonia or solvent smells.
Exhaust fans running at odd times
Frequent visitors at odd hours
Windows blackened out or curtains always drawn.
People coming outside only to smoke.
Occupants unfriendly, appear secretive about their activities, exhibit paranoid or odd behaviour
Expensive security and surveillance gear.
Access denied to landlords, neighbours, other visitors
Rubbish containing a large amount of cold medication containers or packaging. Also bottles, plastic containers and boxes with labels removed.

From Inside

Laboratory glassware, equipment and documents
Containers with clear liquids in them with a chalky coloured solid on the bottom or similar
Containers with two layered liquids in them one dark coloured layer and one clear or pale yellow layer
Used coffee filters containing either a white pasty or reddish brown substance.
Baking dishes or similar containing white crystalline substance
The presence of hot plates near chemicals

Actions that should be taken upon discovery

Leave the area immediately your safety is paramount
Never touch, taste or smell any chemicals or equipment;
Do not attempt to stop the chemical reaction.
Do not turn any electrical devices such as lights or fans on or off. The simple act of turning on an electrical switch may cause an
explosion.
Do not shut off the water supply to the house or the chemical reaction.
Do not smoke in or near a Clandestine Laboratory;
Do not use tools, radios, cell-phones, torches or devices that produce sparks or friction;
Contact the NZ Police
Do not re enter the premises

Exposure to chemicals found in Clandestine Laboratories can result in:

Headaches
Watery or burning eyes
Nausea
Burning skin
Coughing or Choking
Pain in diaphragm
Feeling of coldness or weakness
Shortness of breath / dizziness
Decrease in cognitive function, vertigo, and convulsions.

Clandestine Drug Laboratory Hazards

Explosive: Can be unstable and/or sensitive to heat or shock.
Flammable: Can ignite from any spark, flame or hot surface.
Oxidising: Can react with contaminants. Spills may catch fire.
Corrosive: Can burn skin or destroy eyesight.
Toxic: Can poison by inhalation, ingestion or skin contact.
Eco-toxic: Can harm plants animals and fish.
Infections: Can cause adverse bodily reactions.
Radioactive: Treat as toxic substance. Keep exposure to a minimum.