![[logo] US EPA](http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
Research Highlights
Chemical Wipe Sampling
The collection of surface contaminants, referred to as “wipe sampling,” is an important technique for government agencies and the private sector to estimate contamination on a variety of surfaces, including those in buildings, homes, outdoor areas, and hands. Wipe sampling techniques are used for environmental sampling and the monitoring of industrial hygiene, remedial processes, security, compliance, and other related applications.
Sampling can occur during household lead testing, airport screening, post-decon sampling, and human pesticide exposure. EPA research aims to better identify surface contaminant collection methods, including sampling media, wetting solvents, and collection techniques.
Procedures can vary widely, depending on the contaminant of interest and the surface sampled. Increasing the reliability of test results begins with accurate sample collection. The procedure used for a specific analyte on a given surface is an important part of whether or not the results generated will be representative of the contamination.