An XRF Performance Characteristic Sheet (PCS) defines acceptable operating specifications and procedures for each model of X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) lead-based paint analyzer. An inspector must follow the XRF Performance Characteristic Sheet for all inspection activities.
First the inspector must take at least three calibration check reading before starting the inspection. Calibration again must be conducted every four hours
The inspector will test a testing combination in each room equivalent.
A testing combination is a wall, floor, window sill. Change of paint color does not infer a different testing combination.
A testing combination is a unique combination of room equivalent, building component type, and substrate.
In single-family housing XRF readings will be taken of each painted or stained surface type (e.g., baseboard, floor, door) present in each room. In multifamily housing (large developments with a lot of apartments or units) an inspector doesn’t have to inspect every unit. The number of units that must be inspected depends upon the year the housing was build and how many total units or apartments there are in the development.
All lead-based paint inspections and risk assessment reports must be conducted and documented in accordance with Chapter 5 and 7 of the HUD Guidelines.
Advantages The XRF machine is portable and can be used on site. For most painted surfaces, it can determine whether or not lead-based paint is present. Usually, it does not damage the painted surface as paint chip sampling does. Disadvantages XRFs cost from $8,000 to $20,000. XRF inspectors must have radiation safety training. They also need special training to operate the machine. After this training, they must get a permit to use an XRF machine. Permits, training, and replacement parts can also be expensive
