Clan Labs

Question 1

Clan lab indicators (outside)

Answer 1

• chemical odours coming from building
• exhaust fans running at odd times
• frequent visitors at odd hours
• windows blackened out or curtains always drawn
• people coming outside only to smoke
• expensive security and surveillance gear

Question 2

Clan lab indicators (inside)

Answer 2

• lab glassware
• containers with clear liquids
• used coffee filters
• baking dishes

Question 3

Unplanned entry

Answer 3

Police must not touch, handle, move, disconnect, deactivate or operate anything.

In an unplanned entry Police should:
- immediately remove persons of interest from the premises
- isolate the site and maintain a safety perimeter
- preserve the crime scene
- notify the duty Inspector of NCO, contact clan lab, ambos + fire
- occupants, staff remain separated until decontaminated

Question 4

Planned entry

Answer 4

Knowledge of a suspected clan lab. Can plan and prepare in advance.

The manner of entry will depend on the nature of the intelligence on such factors as:
- whether it is an active or inactive lab
- the number and nature of offenders or others present in the lab
- the lab location
- proximity to persons or property
- type/size or lab
- firearms, weapons, booby traps

Question 5

Emergency powers

Answer 5

The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 contains emergency powers that the Police may use when dealing with the Clan Lab.

Section 135 of this act:
Emergency means:
a) actual or imminent danger to human health or safety or
b) a danger to the environment or chattels so significant that immediate action is required to remove the danger arising from a hazardous substance or new organism

Enforcement officer includes:
- any constable
- employee, volunteer or contractor of Fire NZ