Clandestine Drug Laboratories
Greencap is now part of WSP
Clandestine drug laboratories have been defined as “illicit operations consisting of a sufficient combination of apparatus and chemicals that either has been or could be used in the manufacture or synthesis of drugs, poisons and/or controlled substances” in the Australian National Model Response Plan for Clandestine Drug Laboratories.
The clandestine manufacture of illicit drugs and operation of these illegal labs has the potential to leave harmful and toxic contamination in houses and buildings, which may not be apparent, and can be challenging to remediate.
The Australian Government recognises the potential risks to human health arising from exposure to the chemical contamination associated with clandestine drug laboratories within residential dwellings, vehicles, short term accommodation and other structures.
Benefits
- Protection of occupant health and well-being
- Unbiased scientific advice from independent experts
- Loss mitigation (time, money, reputation)
- Maintenance of property value
Greencap are experienced, industry-recognised experts in clandestine drug laboratory assessment and post-remediation verification. Unbiased, idependent and scientific advice is given at each stage of the process. Engaging Greencap can greatly assist not only with protecting the health and well-being of the occupants, owner and contractors but also in mitigating losses (time, money, reputation). This can serve to prevent litigation and reduce settlements on claims.
Assessment requirements are dependent on the size and nature of the dwelling/vehicle, along with the substance or substances being produced in the laboratory, the size of the lab and the duration of operation and the layout of the property.
Greencap offers clients a range of solutions, from a precautionary screening between tenants to a detailed assessment following the detection of a clandestine drug laboratory by a law enforcement agency.
The typical process Greencap recommends involves:
- An initial assessment of a property
- Development of a remedial scope of works (if required)
- The completion of a post-remediation verification assessment at the completion of remedial works to demonstrate the issue has been appropriately remediated
The various stages may include additional options including interim assessments during works on complex projects and/or ongoing technical advice during the process.
Precautionary Screening
Independent Non-intrusive Pre-Remediation Assessment
Scope of Work:
- Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to arrange site inspection with property owner/property manager/tenant and Environmental Health Officer and police if required.
- IEP conducts:
- Cursory visual inspection of the property
- Surface sampling to identify if illicit substances are present, as requested by the client
- Preparation of a report summarising the findings of the inspection and results of surface sampling, if required/requested
Initial Assessment
Independent Initial Visual Assessment
Scope of Work:
- In addition to the requirements of any Notices which may have been served, information is gathered prior to site inspection regarding the type of substance produced, the size of laboratory and the size of the property
- Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to arrange site inspection with property owner/insured/property manager and Environmental Health Officer and police if required.
- IEP conducts:
- Visual assessment of property to identify laboratory location, if possible
- Visual assessment of relevant damage to property
- Surface, soil and air sampling undertaken as required to establish degree and nature of impact
- Results to be compared to Clandestine Drug Laboratory Remediation Guidelines 2011
- Preparation of report summarising the inspection findings and development of a remediation action plan if required
Post-Remediation Verification
Independent Post-Remediation Verification (PRV) Assessment
Scope of Work:
- IEP to arrange site inspection with property owner/insured/property manager, Environmental Health Officer and police, and remediation contractor if required/requested
- IEP conducts:
- Visual inspection of remedial works undertaken
- Surface sampling as required to verify remediation methods have been effective
- Results to be compared to Clandestine Drug Laboratory Remediation Guidelines 2011
- Preparation of report summarising findings and verifying success of remediation works
- Recommendation regarding suitability for re-habitation if required
Industry News
Risk Review
News
Mid-Coast Outreach & Greencap - Helping to keep communities safe and supported
Risk Review
The Asbestos Register – A cornerstone for managing asbestos
Greencap acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.