What distinguishes screening from comprehensive tests?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Grasping how screening tests differ from comprehensive soil tests helps you to choose the appropriate contamination test effectively. Screening tests provide speedy and cost-effective checks for commonly occurring problems. Comprehensive tests examine the soil profile in detail for the presence of contaminants. Targeted tests assess specific pollutants, such as PFAS. The history of your land dictates which type of test best meets your needs.
Screening Tests
- Detect common heavy metals like lead and arsenic
- Deliver results within 3-7 days at lower cost
- Ideal for initial assessments in low-risk areas
Comprehensive Analyses
- Cover metals pesticides PFAS and industrial chemicals
- Require 10-14 days for laboratory processing
- Provide EPA-compliant documentation for legal use
Specialized Testing
- Targets specific threats like PFAS or radioactive elements
- Uses advanced equipment like mass spectrometers
- Essential for sites with known contamination history
Select screening tests for fundamental due diligence. They work effectively for feasibility studies of residential property when there is no known contamination. Screening will help reveal simple red flags quickly. However, never rely strictly on screening tests in industrial areas or in areas dedicated to farming, where extensive testing is required.
A detailed analysis warrants a higher cost in high-risk conditions; total contaminant profiling is required in cases of formerly contaminated land. Complete documentation is required for property transactions, in the interest of theft prevention, revenue protection, and other relevant considerations. Gardens need to be cleaned of toxins in the edibles we need. Greater diversification of tests prevents unwieldy and economically damaging mistakes.
Specialized tests handle unique threats efficiently. If you have PFAS contamination in your drinking water due to the use of firefighting foam, order a specific analysis. If you have former orchards, evaluate pesticide-focused testing. This targeted test will reduce analysis costs compared to unnecessary and generic tests, while still covering certain known risks.
Evaluate long-run value against upfront expense. Extensive testing may initially cost more, but it will help avoid expensive cleanup later. I have seen homeowners save thousands of dollars because they discovered contamination before purchase. Business customers are saved from regulatory fines by proper compliance documentation.
Combine testing levels strategically. Begin with screening in instances of uncertainty, if the results indicate a need to upgrade to a comprehensive analysis. This staggered approach strikes a balance between safety and budget. Always consult with professionals to discuss the land's history and determine the most suitable tests.
Read the full article: 5 Critical Insights into Soil Contamination Testing
