Using the Dust Particle Collectors
The adhesive dust particle collectors can be placed at various locations throughout the school and around the school ground to sample particulate fallout. The particle collectors should remain at the collecting sites for 24-72 hours. Write the location, date, and time of day, air temperature, general weather conditions, and wind direction in the space provided on the dust particle collector before you remove the protective backing from the adhesive surface. A fine-point permanent marker works best. Remember later to note the date and time of day at which the collection period is terminated so the total sampling time will be known.
Choose collection sites carefully to minimize the chance of the particle collectors being disturbed by the wind or by curious passersby. Make a list of any features of the collecting area that might release particles of debris into the air. Outdoors, the list might include trees, dirt roads, and patches of lawn. Indoors, the list might include carpet, draperies, clothing, and cleaning supplies such as brooms or dust mops.
To remove the protective backing from the dust particle collector, start at one corner. Handle only the edges. Do not let the adhesive surface come in contact with anything, including your fingers! When returning to the classroom with the dust-laden particle collector at the end of the sampling period, touch only the edges and the non-sticky surface.