Lead Paint Testing

Reliable, Convenient Results and Analysis

Results You Can Trust

JSE Labs has successfully completed the AIHA ELLAP (Environmental Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program). With experienced analysts and state-of-the-art lab equipment, you can rely on us to provide accredited, detailed results in a timely, professional manner. We pride ourselves in delivering accurate results and friendly customer service to all our clients.

Are your loved ones or employees at risk?

There’s nothing more important than the health and safety of your family or the people you work with. Any peeling, cracking, or crumbling of paint that contains lead is extremely hazardous and should be addressed immediately. In homes and buildings constructed before 1950, it is reasonable to assume that all painted surfaces contain lead. In those constructed between 1950 and 1978, lead paint is often found on the following surfaces:

• Doors and door frames
• Kitchen cabinets
• Cupboards
• Window frames and sills
• Exterior walls
• Stairs, railings, and banisters
• Porches and decks
• Fences and gates
• Gutters

High concentrations of lead can also be present in soil due to past removal/scraping of exterior paint. Lead-contaminated soil is especially dangerous when found in areas where children play outdoors or where gardening activities take place. It can also be tracked indoors on shoes or boots.

Lead Testing for Contractors

Construction workers, remodelers, and their families are at increased risk of being exposed to lead since sanding or demolishing lead-painted surfaces can cause the inhalation of lead-contaminated dust or debris. Workers may also bring dust home on their clothes, skin, hair, tools, or equipment, causing an increased risk to them and their families.

 How Does Lead Paint Testing Work?

Lead paint testing measures the amount of lead present in paint, dust, soil, and air. At JSE Labs, we make the process as simple, convenient, and efficient as possible. Here’s how it works:

1. Samples are collected for testing and analysis. For lead paint testing, we need approximately 2 square inches (roughly the size of a credit card) of paint chips for analysis. For the most accurate results, it’s important that the sample includes all layers of the paint, so it’s best to scrape down to the underlying substrate (the wood of a painted window, for example). It’s best to avoid getting too much substrate material in the sample, as this can dilute your results.
2. Samples are brought to our laboratory for testing. You can either mail in your sample, or drop it off at one of our Portland-area locations. All samples must be delivered in a sealed container, preferably in a ziplock bag. In addition, you must submit a completed chain of custody form.
3. Samples are analyzed. Once our laboratory receives your sample, it is prepared for analysis using the EPA 3052/7000B method by digesting paint chips in nitric acid (HNO3), and feeding the solution through a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS). This method can detect even very low levels of lead that can still cause concentrated exposure from activities like sanding and chipping. 
4. Results are sent out conveniently via email. Once our analysts generate an analysis report, it is conveniently sent to the email address listed on the chain of custody form.