Unfortunately, fentanyl is a serious problem in the United States. For that reason, Clean Keepers believes it’s important that our customers understand how to clean up fentanyl should they come into contact with the drug.
Before reading this article, keep in mind that the health risk is minimal if you discover fentanyl after entering an area – but law enforcement should always be called so they can dispose of the drugs properly. Once that happens, they can assess the area for safety.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl and other drugs like fentanyl, called carfentanil and alfentanil, are pain-reducing drugs. Other drugs that you might be familiar with in this category include morphine, heroin, and oxycodone.
Fentanyl is 100 times more powerful than morphine. Because of its strength, people may be concerned about experiencing effects by just coming into contact with it, and it’s always wise to practice the right fentanyl cleanup protocol.
Types of Fentanyl Exposures and What to Do
Skin Exposure:
- Don’t touch anything you believe to be fentanyl with your bare hands.
- Wear gloves if the substance must be handled.
- If skin comes into contact with the substance, brush it off and wash the area with soap and water.
- Avoid alcohol-based cleaners, because alcohol increases absorption through the skin.
Eye Exposure:
- Prevent the substance from splashing into your eyes by wearing a face shield or another kind of protection, like a mask.
- Wash eyes out with water and contact poison control.
Hard Surface/Carpet Exposure:
- If you suspect airborne fentanyl, do not enter the area until it has been adequately ventilated. This usually takes about 24 hours.
- Don’t use a fan, vacuum, or disturb the area right away. This encourages fentanyl to become airborne.
- If there is a visible amount of fentanyl, call Clean Keepers. Only the professionals should handle this type of situation.
- If you suspect fentanyl contamination, wear goggles, an N-95 mask, nitrile gloves, and use a HEPA-filtered vacuum (after 24 hours).
- Wash hard surfaces with substances like Mr. Clean, Simple Green, Pine-sol, or something of the like. Change the water on a regular basis to prevent widespread contamination.
- Rinse the surfaces after you wash them.
Staying Safe With Fentanyl Cleanup
The most important factor during a confirmed or suspected fentanyl exposure is your safety. If you are concerned about a contaminated area, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the professionals at Clean Keepers. We are here for you.
