CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What type of container is appropriate for collecting paint chip samples?

1. Plastic bags

2. Cardboard boxes

3. Screw-top plastic centrifuge tubes

4. Metal containers

The correct answer is: Screw-top plastic centrifuge tubes

The appropriate choice for collecting paint chip samples is a screw-top plastic centrifuge tube. This type of container is advantageous because it provides a secure seal, preventing contamination or loss of small samples, which is crucial for accurate testing and results. Additionally, plastic is non-reactive, meaning it won't interfere with the integrity of the paint chip samples during storage or transport. When collecting paint chips, it is important to ensure that the container is not only secure but also compatible with laboratory analysis methods; screw-top plastic centrifuge tubes excel in this regard. Their design facilitates easy handling and minimizes the risk of damage to the samples during collection and transport to the laboratory. In contrast, other container types have limitations that make them less suitable for this specific purpose. Plastic bags may not provide adequate protection from contamination and could lead to sample degradation. Cardboard boxes can allow moisture and other external factors to affect the integrity of the samples. Metal containers, while sturdy, can potentially react with certain compounds in the paint chips, compromising analytical results. Thus, the screw-top plastic centrifuge tube stands out as the best option for collecting and preserving paint chip samples properly.