• shanti bhavan
  
• lead poisoning
  
  • overview
    
  • project lead-free
    
  • about the conference
    
  • LeadPoison.net
    
• tillany museum
  
• healthcare projects
  
• community development
• women's empowerment
  
• journalism institute
  
• critical issues
  

Testing

The New York City Department of Health provided Hematofluorometers (machines for detecting lead, mercury, and other harmful metals in the blood, and also iron deficiency) to Friends of Lead Free Children Inc. These machines are designed for mass screening programs. They are portable and can be taken to a site easily. They give instant test results on zinc levels at a low cost per test, and require only one drop of blood on a cover glass to get a reading, and can be managed by a lab technician.

Friends of Lead Free Children Inc. provided fifteen Hematofluorometers during the initial year for screening purposes, which were converted for use in India. Those with elevated readings were further tested with lead analyzers purchased from ESA, Inc. Both organizations are also providing, at a reduced charge, the support supplies for the machines. The machines are calibrated with specially prepared blood controls that are verified by the New York State Lead Laboratories. The controls are not spiked with lead, but are real blood containing high, medium, and low levels of lead for verification. The lancets are the pure stainless steel variety and not the cheaper aluminum lancets. The cover glass is a specifically prepared glass that has been double washed to make sure that no residues are left behind which could affect the readings. In short, the machines and supplies are designed for optimal performance, and are approved by the New York City Lead Program.

The George Foundation provides training in the use of the machines and interpreting the results. A detailed training manual covering aspects of lead poisoning and iron deficiency anemia and all aspects of proper testing procedures is also provided. Supplies for testing include cover glass, disposable gloves, lancets, blood collectors, gauze and bandages, and blood controls.