Testing for Lead

Using LiPSA's preliminary Free Lead Paint Test is a good starting point to help determine the scope of any lead surveys, sampling and analysis that may be required. These can all be tailored to meet very specific individual needs, such as:

Lead testing can be divided into two broad categories:

Qualitative Testing - Is there lead? Yes or No? This generally gives a low cost, chemistry-based 'indication' for regular in-house and individual use. It is not sufficient for CLAW compliance purposes.

Quantitative Testing - (If there's lead) How much lead? This is more expensive as it requires specialist equipment, used by experienced professionals in order to meet CLAW compliance requirements. It is most likely to involve the use of hand-held XRF-i (X-ray Fluorescence - isotope) technology for in-situ non-destructive testing (NDT) of 'buried' lead in paint supplemented by physical (destructive) sampling for laboratory analysis. Blood lead analysis is also quantitative.

Measurement Type	Qualitative Analysis	Quantitative Analysis
Blood Lead Levels (BLLs)	N / A	Yes
Airborne Lead Dust	N / A	Yes
Surface Dust Contamination	Yes	Yes
Lead-Based Paint (LBP)	Yes	Yes
Surface Skin Contamination	Yes	Yes
Lead in Soil	Yes	Yes
Lead in Water	Yes	Yes

With the exception of blood lead and airborne lead dust analysis there are a range of qualitative and quantitative testing alternatives for each of the categories shown.

Low-cost lead exposure monitoring can be carried out on-site by operatives and DIYers themselves. From reasonably accurate chemical-based indicators to laboratory accurate screening and analysis, a full range of lead testing options is now available to suit all budgets and compliance requirements.

For those requiring 'professional' sampling and full quantitative analysis by a formally trained and accredited specialist, LiPSA can advise on the most cost-effective sampling strategies.