Environmental Lead Analysis

The Missouri State Public Health Laboratory (MSPHL) analyzes soil, dust wipes and paint samples for the presence of lead that are collected from the environment of children with elevated blood lead levels. Environmental lead samples are also accepted for special studies with prior approval from the Chemistry Unit

Chemistry

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Samples must be submitted by a Licensed Lead Risk Assessor.
Dust wipes should be accompanied by a blank dust wipe packaged in the field.
Soil samples should contain at least 400 grams.
Paint samples should contain the equivalent of a 1- inch square piece of paint.
All environmental lead samples must be submitted in collection devices provided by MSPHL.
Collection devices are provided by MSPHL free of charge.

No special requirements.

Dust wipe
Soil
Paint

MSPHL Environmental Lead Analysis Form

Concentration (amount) of lead in the submitted sample will be reported.

Reporting limits are the minimum concentrations that can be detected by MSPHL analytical procedures.

Current reporting limits:
Dust wipes = 4.0 µg/wipe
Soil = 20 µg/g of dry soil
Paint = 0.005% by weight

Quantity not sufficient

Samples not submitted in collection devices provided by the MSPHL.

N/A

7 working days after receipt of sample

Environmental lead testing is available for free for children with an Elevated Blood Lead Level.

N/A

N/A

Learn more about becoming a Licensed Lead Risk Assessor.

For more information about the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Childhood Blood Lead Program contact State Public Health Laboratory or the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Bureau of Environmental Epidemiology at 573-751-6102.

Visit the Local Public Health Agency website.