On Apr 6, 11:34*pm, David Nebenzahl wrote:
Anyone know where to get lead testing kits? I have in mind something I
can use to test surfaces or pieces of material (for example, chipped
paint) for lead. Something fairly reliable but not super-expensive (this
isn't an OHSA operation after all). This would be a service for my
customers, to let them know for sure whether their walls/kitchen
drawers/whatever are a potential lead hazard.

Helpful replies appreciated.

--
The best argument against democracy is a five-minute
conversation with the average voter.

- Attributed to Winston Churchill

Good that you want to do that, but just a few comments.

First off, get yourself certified to do the lead work. Most training
is free. Go to HUD.gov and read their info from the Office of Lead
Hazard Control http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/

The training is important so you don't create a bigger problem than
you solve once you start ripping things apart. Quick example: how do
you drill a hole through a plaster wall to install a wire or pipe
without putting dust into the air. Answer: Cover the area with
shaving cream. Seriously. No dust, no problem.

Secondly, I'm not sure if you can legally take lead samples "for hire"
without being certified as a lead risk assessor. You should check
into that.

Finally, most gov't have a not-for-profit working in the area that
does lead work. If you take samples (tape and a knife) and bring them
in, they will usually send them to a lab for a nominal fee and get
real results.

Lead-Safe Work Practices will probably be a big "upsell" in most
markets in the future. People love to protect their kids.