Laboratory Test: Metals on Surface Wipes by NIOSH 9102/ ICP

Presence of metals on work surfaces indicate historical exposure of workers that occured since the last cleaning of the workspace. While the concentration of metal dust on surfeces is not always correlate with airborne concentrations of the same metals in the air, it is a clear indication of the workplace safety. Only two metals are regulated by EPA USA: Lead in residential dwellings and Beryllium at workplace environment.

Why This Test Is Crucial for Your Safety

Metal dust contamination can silently jeopardize workplace safety and employee health. Settled lead, beryllium, arsenic, manganese and other highly toxic metals can be absorbed by the skin and contribute to overall workplace exposure. Prolonged exposure to those metals. Identifying contamination levels ensures compliance with regulatory standards, reduces liability, and maintains a safe work environment.

Technical Details About Surface Contamination Testing

Surface sampling for metals is a well-established process guided by NIOSH Method 9102. This method involves:

Sampling Media: LCS Laboratory provides pre-treated wipes, commonly known as “Ghost Wipes,” specifically designed for efficient metal dust collection.
Sample Collection: The client collects metal dust from a defined surface area of 1 square foot using the provided wipes.
Analysis Sensitivity: The samples are analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) with a sensitivity range of 0.1 µg/sample to 1 µg/sample, ensuring precise detection of even the smallest trace contamination.
Comprehensive Reporting: The analysis identifies metal compounds, helping to pinpoint contamination sources.

Our testing services are flexible, allowing customization of the metal list based on the specific needs of your workplace. For example, industries working with mercury or arsenic can request targeted analyses to address unique risks.