In this article, we’ll walk you through why decontamination is essential, the steps involved and the risks .
Firstly – Don’t Panic!! Yup that’s right…..Until you have conclusive proof that your property contains meth residue levels above 0.5 micrograms per 100 cm², take a deep breath and if, after independent forensic testing it’s proved that your property is above the Australian standards, still don’t panic…..
Yes, methamphetamine contamination in homes is a serious issue, but with the right approach, you can restore your property to a safe and healthy state.
All this information uses the Australian Clandestine Drug Laboratory Remediation Guidelines as a reference point.
The reality is light meth use within a property is highly unlikely to create meth residue levels above th 0.5 micrograms per 100 cm² standard, however for your own peace of mind (and for the safety of people living at the property), always test to be sure.
As an aside to this, it’s worth considering performing a test using a DIY meth testing kit at the change of each tenancy (and recording these results using photographs of the test areas and cassette results) in the event that the property shows high levels of contamination at a later date.
Knowing if your property needs decontamination is crucial. Here are the steps to determine if your property is contaminated:
It’s important to know that, even in cases of high levels of contamination Meth residue is odourless and invisible.
If you suspect drug usage or there are signs such as chemical smells, unusual stains, or suspicious items like chemical containers and glassware – Test!!!
– Use a DIY meth testing kit to get a quick indication of contamination levels. These kits are affordable and can detect if meth residue exceeds the Australian standard of 0.5 micrograms per 100 cm². They are simple to use and provide results in minutes.
– If DIY tests indicate contamination, or if you prefer a more accurate assessment, hire a qualified and accredited testing company. They will conduct a thorough evaluation and provide precise measurements of contamination levels.
Methamphetamine contamination isn’t just a health hazard; it can also cause significant damage to your property.
Even low levels of residue can cause health issues like respiratory problems, headaches, and developmental delays in children.
According to Australian guidelines, any residue above 0.5 micrograms per 100 cm² needs to be cleaned up.
This ensures your home is safe and legally compliant.
Cleaning up meth contamination involves several key steps. Here’s a simplified look at what needs to be done:
– The first step is to engage a qualified accredited tester who will assess the property and take samples to determine the exact contamination levels.
– Based on these test results, a detailed plan will be made, outlining the cleaning steps, timelines, and who’s responsible for what.
– The affected areas are sealed off to prevent the spread of contaminants, and the property is ventilated to clear out airborne particles.
– Heavily contaminated items like carpets, furniture, and other soft furnishings are removed and disposed of safely. These items, such as curtains, blinds, and cushions, cannot be effectively decontaminated and need to be replaced.
All surfaces, including walls, floors, and ceilings, are cleaned using specialized cleaning agents. HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping are common techniques.
This is an exhaustive process and depending on the size or property and level of contamination could take between 1-3 days to complete.
Be aware that this process may cause degradation to paint and varnish, which might need to be reapplied after cleaning and minor water leakage.
– After cleaning, another round of testing ensures that meth levels are below the 0.5 micrograms per 100 cm² standard.
A detailed report is created, documenting the cleaning process and test results, confirming the property meets safety standards.
Meth contamination can severely impact various aspects of your property. Here’s what you might encounter during the remediation process:
Ready to make your property safe again? Contact Contam Solutions today. Our team will guide you through the entire process, from initial testing to final clean-up, ensuring your home is safe and sound. Don’t wait – reach out now and take the first step toward a healthier living space.
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