Introduction of NZS8510

Recently the above standard was released to assist with maintaining a consistent approach to Methamphetamine contamination testing in New Zealand. This standard while in place has certain aspects that are still in the process of being finalised.

Contamination Levels

As part of the introduction of the NZS8510 a revision was conducted on the contamination levels that were in place. It was determined that it would be safe to lift the levels for contamination to the levels listed below. Any areas above these levels are determined uninhabitable and require decontamination by an experienced decontamination company, using a product that has been determined as fit for purpose.

  • 1.5 µg/100cm2 – Dwelling either use or Manufacture all high use areas
  • 3.8 µg/100cm2 – determined for low use areas such as ceiling cavities *

* NB – low use areas are areas that do not have easy access for children and adults and predominantly used for storage. It is important to note that storage of goods in these areas is NOT recommended.

Currently there is no NZQA course in place for testers to obtain. The course content is currently being researched and the course is currently in development stages.

IANZ accreditation is still at the point of being assessed and like the above will take some time to put together the assessment programme for our industry.

Currently Independent Drug Screening Testers work as much to the new standard as is possible and have adapted all testing procedures and recommendations in the NZS8510 document.

All testers will sit and hold the NZQA qualification as soon as it is released. Our intention is that we will commence with the IANZ accreditation process as soon as this is available to do so.

The introduction of this standard has meant that there are some rigid guidelines around the testing procedures and steps which have increased on average the number of sites that are required to be tested. Our samplers will discuss with you what will be required.

At all times we will evaluate the situation based on circumstance and back ground presented for each and every job we undertake. We are committed to delivering a high standard of both sampling services and advice to our clients based on our depth of experience.