Safety Services Management expands illicit drug-contaminated vehicle cleaning and Testing services to Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Safety Services Management (SSM), a top provider in the United States for illicit drug remediation, testing, training, and cleanup consultation, is pleased to announce the expansion of its vehicle decontamination services to Kentucky.

This move highlights SSM’s ongoing commitment to leading the industry in the safe and efficient cleanup of vehicles exposed to hazardous substances, addressing the growing challenges linked to the fentanyl crisis.

Pioneering Vehicle Decontamination with MX908 Technology

SSM is the only private company in the U.S. that owns the MX908, a handheld, high-pressure mass spectrometry device from 908 Devices Inc. Commonly used by hazmat teams and law enforcement, this advanced technology allows SSM to detect trace amounts of illicit drugs that are otherwise invisible, enabling quick in-field analysis and significantly reducing the time and cost of traditional laboratory testing.

“Our expansion into Kentucky is a crucial step in advancing our mission to protect both public safety and the environment,” said Jon Schibsted, CEO of SSM. “The ability to clean and restore contaminated vehicles, which would otherwise be destroyed, is a game-changer for both insurance companies and vehicle owners.”

Responding to the Surge in Stolen Vehicle Contamination

The increase in vehicle thefts has been a significant factor contributing to rising auto insurance premiums, compounded by the fentanyl crisis. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports a nationwide surge in vehicle thefts, with certain regions experiencing a spike of more than 10% in the past year. Urban areas like the District of Columbia and Maryland have seen even higher jumps, with theft rates rising 64% and 63%, respectively. This surge has led to an increase in contaminated vehicles, adding pressure on insurers to manage risks associated with stolen and compromised vehicles. 

Expanded Service Areas in Kentucky and Neighboring Regions

With this expansion, SSM now offers its services in the following key cities:

Illicit Drug Tech testing a recovered stollen vehicle for illicit drugs. 

• Lexington, KY

• Louisville, KY

• Cincinnati, OH

• Columbus, OH

• Indianapolis, IN

• Nashville, TN

• Knoxville, TN

• Charleston, WV

• Huntington, WV

• Evansville, IN

• Frankfort, KY

• Covington, KY

This extended reach ensures that SSM's services are accessible to a broad range of clients throughout Kentucky and its surrounding regions.

Enhanced Fentanyl Detection for Safer Cleanups

A standout feature of the MX908 is its continuously updated chemical library, allowing the device to detect even the newest and most dangerous substances like fentanyl.

However, technology is just one aspect—experience is equally important. SSM has developed a risk assessment matrix to determine the level of contamination in vehicles and properties, reducing the need for total destruction in many cases. Schibsted has designed a risk evaluation protocol that every vehicle and property undergoes to assess its suitability for cleaning. In more complex cases, SSM collaborates with certified industrial hygienists. Together with Canadian Decon, over 1,000 vehicles and properties have been successfully decontaminated. SSM is eager to share this expertise with others across the U.S. and Canada.

Safety Services Management uses High Pressure Mass Spectrometry (HPMS) to detect illicit drugs in recovered stollen vehicles prior to returning to their owners and service technicians.

The Growing Need for Regulation in Fentanyl Cleanup

Few states currently regulate fentanyl cleanup, despite the growing severity of the issue. As the crisis escalates, some companies avoid the problem due to high costs, while others fail to grasp the risks. SSM has developed an affordable, comprehensive solution that includes training, testing, and cleaning. They are actively seeking partnerships to help address this growing concern.

A Sustainable, Environmentally Friendly Approach 

SSM’s use of the MX908 technology provides significant environmental benefits. By restoring vehicles instead of discarding them, the company reduces waste and environmental impact, aligning with its commitment to sustainability and public safety.

Nationwide Expansion Goals

While SSM currently offers on-site testing and cleaning in Southern California, vehicles from outside the area are transported there for decontamination. The company aims to expand nationwide, building partnerships in major cities across the country. Additionally, SSM provides confined space standby rescue services nationwide, enhancing their safety and rapid response offerings in hazardous environments. “Companies that join our network will learn our techniques and be part of a nationwide effort to combat the fentanyl crisis using the best technology available,” Schibsted said.

Hazmat Expertise Applied to the Fentanyl Crisis

Drawing from his extensive experience as a hazmat firefighter, Jon Schibsted has focused on educating the public and ensuring that contaminated properties and vehicles are safely cleaned. “One event that truly shaped my perspective was a cleanup in Northern California, where a house cleaner tragically lost her life after unknowingly handling illicit drugs. The impact on her family was profound, and it’s a key reason I’ve dedicated myself to developing training programs that teach employees how to identify and safely handle these dangerous substances,” Schibsted said.

Innovative Training and Restoration Practices

In collaboration with Canadian Decon Solutions, Schibsted has developed safe, effective procedures for restoring contaminated vehicles and properties. “When I started in this field, the default solution was to discard everything, driving up costs. Now, with years of testing using the MX908, we can restore most items, reducing both expenses and environmental harm,” he said. “Learning something new can be daunting, but with proper knowledge and understanding, it becomes manageable. Our goal is to share that knowledge so we can tackle these challenges together.” 

About Safety Services Management

Safety Services Management (SSM) specializes in illicit drug remediation, testing, training, and cleanup consultation. The company also provides nationwide confined space standby rescue services. With advanced technology and strategic partnerships, SSM is committed to public safety and environmental sustainability.