Thursday 26 December 2013

Sampling Methods Used By A Lead Inspector In San Diego

By Marcia Marks


It is for the purposes of safety and good health that a lead inspector in San Diego is invited to carry out testing procedures. This is usually due to the state law requirements which were put in place after it was observed that lead has negative implication on human life. The term used to refer to the effect of the chemical in the body is lead-poisoning. This is experienced as a result of elevated levels of this chemical in the blood.

The severity of Pb poisoning depends on the age with children being the most affected. Adults are only affected by large quantities of this metal. Children affected by this metal normally manifest the following characteristics: Learning disability, low IQ, attention deficit disorder, stunted growth among others. Adults on the other hand will exhibit the following effects: Fertility problem, nerves disorder, increased blood pressure among others. Note this; if no intervention is sought early enough, then Pb poisoning can lead to fatality.

Detecting the presence of Pb and it elements require the expertise. The process involves the collection of a number of samples from various parts of the building. These samples are packaged in the right material, labeled and take to the laboratory for analysis. In the chemistry lab, a certified lab technician does a detailed analysis of the samples.

Sampling is very important; care is taken because improper sampling might not yield the best result. Three sampling methods are commonly in use by many experts; this is because of the variations in the materials used in building. Discussed below are the three commonly used sampling methods.

The first one is known as dust wipe sampling method. This process is preferred for hard, smooth and nonporous surfaces. It is also good to note that dust from textured surfaces like bricks might not make the best samples. Dust obtained from fiber surfaces like carpets and cloth-covered furniture should be avoided if possible. Samples that guarantee best results are dust from floors or windowsills. Protective gear such as plastic gloves should always be worn.

The next method is known as soil sampling. This done because of the fact that gravitational force tends to pull falling Pb particles to the ground. Peeling paint normally ends up in the ground or even exhausts gases from vehicles in properties next to the road. Soil samples are however not required for compliance to hazardous waste regulations but are necessary for safety within the home.

Samples are then taken of paints used in the home through the last method called paint chipping. This is compulsory as many paints are made using Pb elements. This process can be done either manually or by the use of a portable device that can measure the Pb content in the required surface.

It is the work of the lead inspector in San Diego to read and interpret the result provided by the lab technician. The next thing is to determine the severity of contamination ad come up with the appropriate course of action to make sure that the home is free of Pb. After that, another sampling is carried out to ensure that no lead is present.




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