Don’t Meth Around.... Do You Know the Risks of Recreational Drug Use to Non-Users?*
Michelle Rosales, MPH, CIH, FACS
Kristy Thornton
The illicit drug epidemic continues to gain public awareness; however, one aspect of the problem gets little attention: Illicit drug residue caused by recreational use can expose others to severe health risks – whether they are users or not. That means anyone who accidentally inhales or absorbs illicit drug residue is threatened. Only a handful of states have regulations that outline proper assessment procedures, remediation protocols, and clearance levels for impacted properties. The potential ramifications of insufficient or improperly conducted procedures or entry can be devastating. This isn’t a job for maintenance staff or housekeeping unless proper equipment and training is arranged beforehand. If police officers can fall victim to fentanyl exposure, it’s certain that untrained workers entering a suspicious area are at an elevated risk.