Which organization sets the standards for lead sampling procedures?

The organization that sets the standards for lead sampling procedures is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA plays a pivotal role in regulating environmental contaminants, and this includes developing guidelines and standards for lead exposure and remediation. Their established protocols for sampling and analyzing lead in various environments—such as residential properties, schools, and childcare facilities—are vital for protecting public health and ensuring safe living conditions, especially for children who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure.

While other organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) also address lead concerns, their focus varies. OSHA primarily governs lead exposure levels in occupational settings rather than broad sampling procedures, while the CDC provides guidance on health implications and prevention strategies for lead exposure but does not set technical sampling methods. The NJDEP addresses state-specific environmental regulations but follows federal standards set by the EPA. Therefore, the EPA is the correct answer for the organization responsible for establishing standards for lead sampling procedures.