Meth behaviour and levels in your home - INFOGRAPHIC
When it comes to meth contamination, not all rooms will be contaminated in the same way and to the same levels. While some rooms like kitchens or bathrooms may show higher readings of meth contamination, other rooms like side rooms and hallways may be drastically lower. This has to do with user behaviour, how meth is attracted to materials and how the fumes travel through the house.
The following data is based on Chemcare's findings through meth contaminated properties in New Zealand - presented from highest to lowest average meth reading. Please note that the levels described below and in the diagram represent a general indication - individual circumstances vary.
Kitchen
Average reading = 10 μg
Low = 8μg High = 150μg
Often we find that if the kitchen was used as a clandestine meth lab, the levels here will be considerably higher and concentrated. Kitchens are popular places still to cook meth because of the ducting and extraction.
Lounge
Average reading = 10μg
Low = 8μg High = 150μg
Lounges are used for social gatherings and smoking which is why they often have higher meth readings. If drug use was recreational, this will likely show higher levels of meth contamination.
Bathrooms
Average reading = 7μg
Low = 5 μg High = 20μg
In family homes, meth is often smoked in the bathroom in an attempt not to disturb other members of the house. These are also popular places for smoking as some of the fumes can be extracted by the fan and extraction units.
Bedrooms
Average reading = 7μg
Low = 5 μg High = 20μg
This is a room commonly used for smoking meth - and will generally show a higher level of contamination even if the property was not used for manufacturing meth.
Ensuite
Average reading = 7μg
Low = 5μg High = 20μg
Bathrooms of bedrooms provide privacy for meth drug use and are commonly used for taking meth, especially in family homes where younger children are present.
Hallways
Average reading = 3μg
Low = 2μg High = 5μg
Some hallways do tunnel meth fumes in recreational use, so can have higher readings. This can come from the other rooms being used to smoke in.
Read more about meth contamination and decontamination:
- How to effectively use DIY meth tests
- 5 reasons not all meth cleaning quotes are equal
- What you need to know about the new meth standard
As you can see, meth levels are different in a property dependant on a number of factors - mostly the meth behaviour. This is why it's imperative to get a non-biased independent detailed assessment if a baseline test has shown levels of contamination. If you need more info on the different meth tests you can read more about it in our blog 'Decoding the different meth tests'.
While many meth testing companies still offer composite meth test reports (which show an average level of meth contamination in a property), the best way to see where contamination levels are higher and in which area of the house is with a detailed meth assessment. You should understand that meth or P testing Auckland homes and beyond require preparation and careful planning.
If you need more information or help regarding a recent meth test on your property, please don't hesitate to contact the team at Chemcare.
*If you would like to share this infographic on your website, please contact us on info@chemcare.co.nz*
