B.C.’s Drug Superlabs Leave Behind Deadly Pollution – Is the Cleanup as Bad as the Crime?

In a remote part of northern British Columbia, a team of cleaners geared up in protective suits to tackle a daunting task. Thick green dust covered every inch of the home, evidence of a fentanyl pill-pressing operation that had left behind a toxic mess. Dean May, co-owner of Mayken Hazmat Solutions based in Calgary, has spent 14 years cleaning up drug labs in Western Canada after the police have completed their investigations. As clandestine drug labs evolve to become larger and more sophisticated, the aftermath they leave behind becomes increasingly toxic and challenging to clean up.

The complexity of these labs requires specialized tools and expertise, leading to expensive and hazardous situations for both people and the environment. In British Columbia, the RCMP has spent millions over the last five years to dispose of chemicals found in these labs. The burden of the remaining cleanup often falls on property owners, prompting calls for consistent province-wide rules on how to remediate these properties effectively.

Here are some key points and insights into the challenges faced by cleaning up drug labs in Western Canada:

• The Rise of Synthetic Drug Labs: Hidden labs producing synthetic drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamines are more toxic and quicker to set up compared to traditional grow operations. This poses a risk as properties can easily be converted into labs without the knowledge of property owners.
• Environmental Impact: The toxic chemicals used in these labs have severe environmental implications. Improper disposal methods such as pouring chemicals into the ground or drains can contaminate soil and water sources, leading to significant cleanup costs and health hazards.
• Increasing Complexity and Cost: The cleanup of drug labs is becoming more costly and challenging due to the emergence of new, toxic substances. The RCMP has spent millions removing chemicals from clandestine labs in British Columbia, highlighting the financial burden faced by authorities and property owners.
• Need for Standardization: The lack of consistent rules and regulations for cleaning up drug labs creates uncertainty for homeowners, insurers, and lenders. Standardizing the remediation process for all types of drug labs would streamline the cleanup and ensure the safety of properties in the housing market.

In conclusion, the growing problem of drug labs in Western Canada requires a coordinated and standardized approach to remediation. By implementing province-wide rules and training programs for professionals involved in cleanup, we can ensure that homes tainted by drug operations are safely reintroduced into the housing market. It is crucial to address this issue comprehensively to protect the health and safety of residents and the environment.