Evaluation of a second‐generation portable blood lead analyzer in an occupational setting

Background A new blood lead testing instrument has qualities that make the instrument attractive for on‐site testing of occupational lead exposures. This study evaluated the accuracy of the instrument when used in a manufacturing setting, and examined the impact of blood storage and shipment on results. Methods Venous blood specimens (n = 121) were obtained and immediately analyzed on‐site using the new instrument. They were then shipped to a reference laboratory and analyzed using electro‐thermal atomization atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS), and retested using the new instrument. Results The cohort blood lead concentration averaged 40.1 µg/dl. Results obtained on the new analyzer with freshly collected blood averaged 38.7 µg/dl. The mean difference of 1.2 µg/dl on paired samples was not statistically significant. Following blood shipment and storage, results on the analyzer increased to an average of 42.4 µg/dl. The mean increase of 3.0 µg/dl on stored blood samples also failed to reach statistical significance. Under OSHA proficiency test acceptability requirements, 94% of the results had satisfactory agreement. Conclusions The new analyzer might be a useful tool for on‐site monitoring of occupational lead exposures. The manufacturer's instructions should be adhered to with respect to specimen age and storage requirements. Am. J. Ind. Med. 50:1018–1024, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.