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Do it Yourself Lead Tests in Soil

You can measure lead in soil or have the test performed under your direction. Lead is a cumulative toxin that builds up in the body, causing weakness and brain damage. In the past lead poisoning was thought to be a "rich man's" disease as it only afflicted them. They were the only ones with lead plates and cups. Today old houses painted with lead-based paint are peeling. Young children eat peeling paint chips. Test kits and instruments are available to check your home's soil and play areas for lead content.

  1. Initial Lead Scrreening Tests

    • Many health departments or government agencies have lead paint programs. Equipment and personnel are available to assist renters and homeowners determine whether they and their children are exposed to lead.
      You may wish to immediately test with a simple lead paint test kit. The EPA recognizes the LeadCheck lead test kit manufactured by Hybrivet Systems.The kit can determine whether surfaces are lead-free except for drywall and plaster. The test must be conducted by a certified renovator to be valid. The test conducted by you is a screening test. Many other lead test kits claim to give good results, but they are only indicators for your benefit and use. Agencies will not officially accept results.

    Acceptable Lead Test from Your Soil

    • You will need to send a soil sample to an EPA laboratory proficient in soil analyses. Instructions on how to take samples and where to send them for results are available from EPA by phone and by e-mail in the Reference.
      EPA also has a high technology Method 6200 for soil analysis with a hand-held device like the Spectro xSort XFR Analyzer. It can be used to identify many metals in soil including lead. Mapping contamination boundaries can be performed with good accuracy and low detection limits. Initial equipment cost is expensive, but it can be rented on a daily or weekly basis. Another option is for you is to do it yourself with a consultant who has the instrument ready to take your tests. The expense can be justified if you need to conduct multiple tests at several locations.
      Many soils have a natural lead content. Have a composite soil sample analyzed by an agricultural agent. See if lead levels are normal for the area. The agent may advise soil conditioners based on the types of plants or vegetables to be grown.

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