STL Tests for Methamphetamine Contaminants

PRESS RELEASE

Date October 12,2006
For Immediate Release

Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc. (STL) has developed the capability to test for residual methamphetamine contamination at clandestine laboratory sites, in response to a rapidly growing problem in human health and the environment.

Methamphetamine, also known as “meth”, is a central nervous system stimulant, found in pill or powder form. Illegal methamphetamine production has resulted in contamination of drains, surfaces, and ventilation systems with hazardous chemicals. Chemicals found in active clandestine laboratories may dissipate rapidly with ventilation, however drug residues, other solids, or water-based solutions of these materials may persist on surfaces and require substantial clean up.

In an effort to establish effective procedures for remediation and clean up of contaminated sites, many states are imposing legislative regulations to meet these environmental challenges. Prior to releasing sites previously used for the production of methamphetamine, the premises must be accurately assessed and potentially cleaned up according to industry standards. Improper or incomplete remediation may result in further mitigation and sampling, which can increase costs in terms of time and labor.

STL uses High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Electrospray Ionization (ESI) and Mass Spectrometric detection for determination of illicit drugs in wipe samples from site surfaces. The drug compounds that are typically analyzed include Methamphetamine, Ecstasy, LSD, and Pseudoephedrine/Ephedrine, with reporting limits of 0.05 ug/100cm2.

About STL

Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc. (STL) is the industry's leading environmental testing company. Operations in the United States include 32 laboratories, 17 Service Centers and QED Environmental Systems, Inc., the leading supplier of groundwater sampling equipment and remediation pumping systems. STL affiliates include the Aerotech P&K team, which brings together the capabilities of Aerotech Laboratories, Inc. and P&K Microbiology Services, Inc. STL employs over 2,100 people and has revenues of $245 million in the United States.

 

For more information, contact:
Jim Miller
Vice President Business Development
Severn Trent Laboratories, Inc.
716-691-2600
Visit our website @ www.stl-inc.com