True or False: The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) allows the use of wet chemical field test kits.

The assertion is false, as the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) explicitly prohibits the use of wet chemical field test kits for lead assessments in residential environments. This prohibition is rooted in the need for accurate and reliable testing protocols that ensure public safety, as wet chemical tests can yield inconsistent results due to various factors such as environmental conditions or user error.

The IDPH emphasizes the use of more reliable testing methods, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for lead detection, which provides immediate and non-destructive results, making it suitable for assessing lead levels in paint, dust, and soil effectively. Following these stringent guidelines is crucial in addressing lead hazards accurately, which protects public health and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Thus, the current stance of IDPH on wet chemical field test kits maintains the integrity of lead assessment procedures.