SEDL / STP / STP1533-EB / STP49747S

Pilot Evaluation for Lead-Based Paint Proficiency Testing of Field Portable XRF Instruments

White, Kenneth T.
QuanTech, Inc., Arlington, VA

Dewalt, F. Gary
QuanTech, Inc., Arlington, VA

Cox, David C.
QuanTech, Inc., Arlington, VA

Schmehl, Richard
QuanTech, Inc., Arlington, VA

Friedman, Warren
Washington, DC

Pinzer, Eugene A.
Washington, DC

Pages: 7    Published: Jan 2011

Download this paper for $25 PDF (156K)          View License Agreement
Abstract

A proficiency testing procedure for evaluating the accuracy of lead measurements taken by certified lead-based paint inspectors using portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) instruments was developed and pilot tested. XRF instruments are widely used for inspection of housing units to determine the presence or absence of lead-based paint. Previous research showed variability between different XRF instruments when used to conduct lead-based paint inspections. Due to concerns over potential errors in inspection reports resulting from biased XRF measurements, a proficiency testing procedure was pilot tested to provide entities, such a state or federal regulators, a means of evaluating the instrumentation being used for lead-based paint inspections.