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Meth Testing Process

Stage 1

Initial Testing

Option 1 - Field Composite

A trained specialist will attend the property and in accordance with forensic sampling protocol will complete a ‘Field Composite’ test which is when:

1. An individual sample is taken from each room.
2. Samples are forwarded to an independent accredited laboratory for analysis.
3. The lab analyses the meth from all samples using one extraction.
4. The result is the sum of meth from these samples.
5. The combined sample is analysed to give a representation of the average concentration.
6. If the composite sample returns a potential maximum where any one area tested could be above the NZ Standard of 1.5µg/100cm² then a trained sampler will need to return to the property to conduct individual sampling to ascertain the levels in each area.
7. The maximum number of samples per tube is 5, but you may have multiple tubes.

Option 2 - Lab Composite

A trained specialist will attend the property and in accordance with forensic sampling protocol will complete a ‘Lab Composite’ test which is when:

1. An individual sample is taken from each room.
2. Samples are forwarded to an independent accredited laboratory for analysis.
3. The lab extracts each sample separately.
4. The lab combines equal portions of the samples extracts, to form a new sample.
5. The combined sample is analysed to give a representation of the average concentration.
6. If the composite sample returns a potential maximum where any one area tested could be above the NZ Standard of 1.5µg/100cm² – the lab can go straight into analysing the individual samples if required without having to return to the dwelling. Only under client instruction.
7. Individual Meth Wipes are generally kept at the lab for one month before discarding.
8. The maximum number of samples per batch is 10, but you may have multiple batches.

Positive Test Result

If the Initial Screen Testing relays a positive result for methamphetamine the next step is to complete a Confirmation/Quantitative Test to determine which rooms/areas in the property require attention.

Stage 2

Confirmation/Quantitative Testing

In accordance with forensic sampling protocol controlled samples are taken and forwarded to an independent accredited laboratory for GCMS analysis. The results from the laboratory will determine the levels of contamination which will determine the extent of remedial work required to reinstate the property.

Stage 3

Post Remedial Testing

The property must be retested at the completion of remedial reinstatement. Again the process for completing Confirmation/Quantitative testing will be followed and the results forwarded to an independent accredited laboratory for GCMS analysis.