Methamphetamine residue dermal transfer efficiencies from household surfaces.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Illegal methamphetamine production creates hazardous residues on household surfaces.
• Exposure risks are significant for first responders, child services, law enforcement, and residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify dermal transfer efficiencies of methamphetamine from common household surfaces.
• To provide data for exposure models assessing methamphetamine contamination risks.

Main Methods:

• Household surfaces (carpet, drywall, linoleum) were contaminated using a simulated smoking method.
• Dermal transfer was measured using cotton gloves on dry or saliva-moistened hands across one, two, or three contact scenarios.
• Transfer efficiencies were incorporated into the Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation (SHEDS-Multimedia) model.

Main Results:

• Average dermal transfer efficiencies ranged from 11% (dry hands) to 26% (wet hands).
• Wet hand transfer was significantly higher than dry hand transfer across all surfaces.
• Carpet and linoleum showed higher wet hand transfer rates compared to painted drywall.

Conclusions:

• Current surface contamination clearance levels may not be sufficient to prevent adverse health effects.
• Further research using skin surrogates is recommended for more accurate dermal transfer predictions.