Media release

20 September 2018

Independent review finds meth standard not improperly nfluenced

An independent review commissioned by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has found the development of NZS 8510 Testing and decontamination of methamphetamine-contaminated properties (NZS 8510) was not improperly influenced by any particular interests or views on the standards development committee, and was largely developed in line with the Standards and Accreditation Act 2015.

MBIE Chief Executive Carolyn Tremain says “MBIE sought an independent review by Barrister Peter Castle following the release of the Office of the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor’s report Methamphetamine contamination in residential properties: Exposures, risk levels and interpretation of standards.

“As with all Standards, NZS 8510 is voluntary unless cited in legislation or regulations. NZS 8510 could be reviewed once methamphetamine regulations under the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill (No 2) have been set. Standards New Zealand will work with interested stakeholders at that point.

“Mr Castle has provided recommended improvements in his report, regarding the definition of consensus and processes regarding declared personal interests. These did not affect the development and outcome of NZS 8510.

“Standards New Zealand has accepted the review’s recommendations and is currently addressing these. We are also committed to making further improvements to the broader standards setting process,” says Ms Tremain.

MBIE welcomes the opportunity to work with the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor Professor Juliet Gerrard FRSNZ to ensure a sound scientific evidence base informs the standard setting process.

The Standards and Accreditation Act 2015 is the legislation that underpins how New Zealand Standards are developed and approved.

• Read the review of the process followed in relation to the development of NZS 8510 Testing and decontamination of methamphetamine-contaminated properties [PDF 1.1MB]

• Read further questions and answers [PDF 96KB]

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