Surface contamination can pose significant risks to health and safety in workplaces, homes, and public spaces. Invisible particles—such as asbestos fibres, lead dust, or mould spores—cannot be seen with the naked eye, yet they can easily transfer onto hands and be ingested, or become airborne and inhaled. These exposures may lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, or long‑term illnesses. At the same time, settled dust offers valuable insight into the recent history of a space, revealing what workers, occupants, or tenants may have been exposed to.
LCS Laboratory Inc. provides advanced surface contamination testing to identify hazardous materials and support safety in industrial, commercial, and public environments. Our expertise in detecting contaminants such as asbestos, mould, heavy metals, and chemical residues helps protect workers, facilities, and the general public from potential health risks.
For most chemicals, surface concentration limits are not formally regulated. As a result, findings are typically interpreted by comparing clean and contaminated areas within a facility or home. The only widely regulated surface limit applies to lead contamination in residential properties.
Detailed Sampling Methods
To ensure accurate results, we employ industry-standard sampling techniques tailored to the type of surface and contaminant:
- Wipe Samples: Ideal for nonporous surfaces such as glass, metal, ceramic, or plastic. A standardized area (1 sq.ft. or 100 cm²) is wiped to collect contaminants, particularly effective for soluble or extractable chemicals like oils and metals. When returned into the lab the target compound (analyte) is extracted and measured using a standard analytical technique. The results are reported in micrograms (μg) per sample or μg/area.
- Micro Vacuuming: Best suited for loose dust on porous or nonporous surfaces. Samples are collected in a PCM cassettes or specialised micro vacuuming cassettes. The loose dust can be gurther analysed for a wide range of materials and chemicals. The results are reported in micrograms (μg) per sample or μg/area.
- Tape Lift Sampling: A simple method where clear tape is pressed onto the surface to collect particles. This is commonly used for direct microscopic examination. The results are reported in particles per mm², or as a percent of the target particles vs the total dust load
By identifying and quantifying hazardous materials, LCS Laboratory helps organizations comply with health and safety regulations, minimize risks, and protect workers and the public. Our ISO 17025-accredited laboratory provides reliable, accurate results tailored to your specific needs.
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Contact Us for Testing and More Information
If you require surface contamination testing or have any questions, please contact us. We also invite you to:
LCS Laboratory is here to assist with all your hazardous material testing needs. Reach out to us today to ensure a safer tomorrow. ©
