What is the purpose of a spiked dust sample in lead inspections?

The purpose of a spiked dust sample in lead inspections is to assess the accuracy of lead measurement. When a spiked dust sample is created, a known quantity of lead is added to a dust sample. This allows inspectors to determine how accurately their testing methods and instruments can detect and quantify lead levels within that sample. By comparing the expected lead concentration (from the spike) to the measured concentration during analysis, inspectors can evaluate whether their lead measurement processes are reliable and precise.

This practice is critical because it helps ensure that the findings from lead inspections are valid, which is essential for effectively identifying lead hazards and protecting public health. Having confidence in measurement accuracy enables inspectors to make informed decisions based on their results.