BACKGROUND
EnviroScience Solutions were engaged to conduct an onsite assessment, and prepare a scope of works, following a potential clandestine drug laboratory at a residential property.
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SOLUTION
The purpose of the onsite assessment was to determine the presence of methamphetamine and provide guidance to contractors for remediation due to concerns regarding the potential manufacture and use of methamphetamine at the property.
The preliminary assessment and action were conducted by using an ‘on the spot’ indicative screening method, prior to advancing to the next phase of works, to assess and remediate the site to determine the presence of methamphetamine on non-porous surfaces within the property
Samples were obtained and indicated some of the surfaces contained ‘methamphetamine residue’ when compared to a control sample, which provided enough evidence to undertake an intensive swab sampling regime.
The intensive swab sampling regime was then conducted by employing a process developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) which uses a semi-quantitative immunoassay wipe kit to identify methamphetamine residue on surfaces at, or above, relevant state clean-up levels. Samples were obtained from areas adjacent the indicative tests, throughout the ground floor and ceiling cavity.
OUTCOME
The laboratory analysis recorded no samples with a concentration of methamphetamine residue above the clean-up guideline level of 0.5µg/100cm2. Based on the laboratory findings EnviroScience determined the property would not require any remediation in relation to methamphetamine residues prior to reoccupation.
