What type of testing can provide immediate results for lead in the environment?

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) testing is a method that uses X-rays to identify the presence of lead and quantify its concentration in various materials, such as paint, dust, and soil. The significant advantage of XRF is that it can provide immediate results on-site, which facilitates timely decision-making regarding lead contamination and remediation activities. This rapid feedback is crucial for lead inspectors and public health officials to take appropriate actions to protect individuals, especially children, from lead exposure.

In contrast, laboratory analysis typically involves sending samples to a lab for detailed examination, which can take days or weeks to produce results, delaying necessary interventions. Chemical spot testing can indicate the presence of lead, but the results are often less definitive and may require more laboratory confirmation for accuracy. Field screening kits, while useful for quick assessments, may not provide the level of detail and immediate quantitative analysis that XRF offers. Thus, XRF testing stands out as the method providing immediate results for lead in the environment.