What should be done with all dust when sampling for lead?

When sampling for lead, using wet wipes to collect dust is essential because it helps to minimize the chances of airborne lead particles being released during the sampling process. Wet cleaning methods like using wet wipes effectively capture lead dust without it becoming airborne, which is crucial since lead dust can pose serious health risks if inhaled. This method ensures that the samples collected are more representative of the lead dust present in the environment, allowing for accurate assessment and risk evaluation.

In contrast, leaving the dust as is can lead to incorrect assessments, as the dust may remain on surfaces and not be effectively quantified. Dry cleaning methods may not capture all lead particles adequately, and vacuuming, while potentially effective, can stir up dust and lead particles, which may again compromise the accuracy of the sample by making lead airborne during the process. Therefore, using wet wipes strikes an ideal balance of thoroughness and safety when sampling for lead.