Which method can confirm the presence of lead in paint?

Paint chip analysis is a reliable method to confirm the presence of lead in paint. This technique involves collecting a sample of the paint and sending it to a laboratory where it can be tested using various chemical analysis methods, such as atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. These methods can provide precise results that quantify the lead concentration in the paint sample.

Visual inspection, while useful for identifying potential sources of lead, does not provide confirmatory results, as it is based primarily on the appearance of the paint rather than its chemical composition. XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) tests can detect lead in paint, but they require specific calibration and proper usage to ensure accuracy, meaning they cannot be used alone without consideration of other factors. Simple cleaning tests may indicate the presence of lead dust but do not confirm its presence in the paint itself, which is essential for understanding the overall lead hazard in a property. Therefore, paint chip analysis is the most definitive method for confirming lead presence in paint.