Field Composite

The cheapest option for screening a property for the presence of methamphetamine residues.

Samples are collected from a number of locations in the property and are placed into a single sample tube for analysis. Our kit contains 5 wipes, and we recommend each is used in 1 location. The result from this test is the total amount of methamphetamine from all the locations that were sampled.

If the result is greater than the guideline level for the property, individual samples should be collected to obtain results for each of the areas sampled. Unfortunately this will usually require a second visit by the sampler, and this can be a significant additional cost.

Laboratory Composite

This is another screening option, which provides information about the presence of methamphetamine residues in a property.

Individual samples are collected from various locations in the property, and these are extracted separately by the lab.  However, instead of being tested individually, a sub-sample of the individual extracts is combined into a composite sample for analysis.

If there is a high result from the composite sample, the laboratory will have retained the individual samples (for a 30 day period) and can test these without a return visit by the sampler to the property.  In situations where there is suspicion of contamination, this provides a way of screening for a lower cost, while avoiding a costly re-sampling exercise if suspicions are proven to be correct.

Individual or Discrete Sample

This is the most comprehensive or ‘gold standard’ option.  Individual samples are taken from separate locations around the property (or even separate locations within a room).

Because Individual Sample results are able to be directly compared with guidelines, they are used to both plan remediation and check for the success after remediation.