Illicit Drug Screen

We can offer an illicit drug screen in water/wastewater and swabs. The following analytes are available currently, with more on the way:

• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
• Cannabinol
• Cannabidiol
• Buprenorphine
• Norbuprenorphine
• Methamphetamine
• Amphetamine
• MDA
• MDMA
• Pseudoephedrine

Additional Support

If you have an existing or prospective purchase of a business premises, rental property or a vehicle that you suspect may be contaminated by meth residue or various other illicit drugs and chemicals, you should seek peace of mind by having samples tested.

Get in contact with us here and discuss what testing services are right for you.

Drug Wipe Sampling Kit

At MPL we will provide you with a Drug Wipe Sampling Kit. Each kit consists of the following items necessary for collecting a sample from a surface that may be suspected to be contaminated by any illicit drug residue:

• 1 x single-use wipe
• 1 x Cardboard Template for sampling that measures 100 cm² (10 cm x 10 cm square)
• 1 x 50mL centrifuge tube (sample container after sampling)
• 1 x pair of single use Nitrile gloves

Drug Residue Testing

We utilize the "wipe sampling" technique to detect subtle residues on various surfaces, whether in homes, businesses, or rental properties. This method acts as a sentinel, revealing contaminants such as metals, pesticides, and drugs.

Wipe sampling uniquely identifies a wide range of compounds, creating a comprehensive analysis.

Our drug residue detection approach is based on the NIOSH method 9111, "Methamphetamine on Wipes by LC/MS," offering a scientific pathway to decipher traces left behind by substances.

Contact our expert team today for drug residue testing.

Data integrity: Sample Storage and Preservation

For methamphetamine and similar amines, samples collected on the recommended media may be stored for to seven days at regular room temperatures. For improved preservation, we recommend refrigeration as soon as possible. 

Labelling and Dispatch

Label each sample with a unique sample identification number or name. Send the samples to our MPL Laboratory in Perth.

Collecting a sample

Our sample collection methodology draws from the practices of NIOSH and OSHA, ensuring the precision and credibility of our approach.

Laying the Foundation: Preparing for Sample Collection

Before the sample collection begins, there are two crucial steps to follow:

1. Gently affix the cardboard template to the designated area, its boundaries secured by a tape along the outer edge.
2. Put on your gloves provided within the kit and remove the wipe from its pouch.

Exploring options: Wipe Sampling Techniques

1. Concentric Squares Wiping Technique:
An ideal choice for smooth and non-porous surfaces, this technique as follows:

• Without unfolding the wipe and using firm pressure, wipe the area in the template.
• Start at one of the inside corners of the template and wipe in concentric squares, progressing toward the centre.
• End with a scooping motion.
• Without allowing the wipe to touch any other surface, reverse the last fold, so the exposed side of the wipe is facing inwards.
• Using a fresh surface of the wipe, wipe the same area in the same manner as before.
• Roll or fold the wipe again and insert into the shipping container (50mL centrifuge tube).
• Cap the tube securely and keep refrigerated (<6°C).

2. Side-to-side Wiping Technique:
Tailored for rough, porous, or soiled surfaces, this technique as follows:

• Without unfolding the wipe and using firm pressure, wipe the area within the template with at least five overlapping side-to-side horizontal passes beginning at the top and progressing to the bottom in a “Z” pattern.
• Without allowing the wipe to touch any other surface, reverse the last fold so that the exposed side of the wipe is facing inwards. Using a fresh surface of the wipe, wipe the area again with at least five overlapping top-to-bottom vertical passes beginning at the left side and progressing to the right in an “N” pattern.
• Roll or fold the wipe again and insert into the shipping container (50mL centrifuge tube).
• Cap the tube securely and keep refrigerated (<6°C)