Overview of Current Practices in the Methamphetamine Testing and Decontamination Industry: An Australian Case Study

Emma J. Kuhn, G. Stewart Walker, Harriet Whiley, Jackie Wright and Kirstin E. Ross
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Emma J. Kuhn: College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
G. Stewart Walker: College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
Harriet Whiley: College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
Jackie Wright: College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
Kirstin E. Ross: College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 17, 1-11

Abstract: To better protect public health from third-hand exposure to methamphetamine, it is important to understand the techniques and current practices used within the methamphetamine testing and decontamination industry in Australia. A survey was conducted focusing on business owners that advertised testing and/or remediation services online. They were also invited to participate in a follow-up phone interview upon completion. The survey demonstrated that testing and decontamination methods were highly varied, which was expected for an industry with no regulation. Most companies offered methamphetamine testing and remediation which could be a conflict of interest. Participants also shared personal experiences, including the conduct of other industry members, demonstrating both poor practice and/or the competitive nature of the business. Participating business owners were following Australian guidelines to the best of their ability, and many are advocates for regulation to be implemented within the industry. This would address the inconsistencies between companies and establish trust for industry members and the public. It would also provide significant public health protection, which is currently lacking. A more consistent approach to the testing and remediation of methamphetamine contamination, aided by regulation, would address the significant risk to public health caused by third-hand exposure to methamphetamine.

Keywords: methamphetamine contamination; third-hand exposure; testing; remediation; industry practices; regulation; guidelines; public health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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