Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

What is a critical factor in assessing lead hazards in housing?

1. Number of bedrooms

2. Age of the structure

3. Location of the property

4. Type of inhabitants

The correct answer is: Age of the structure

The age of the structure is a critical factor in assessing lead hazards in housing because older homes are more likely to contain lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust. Lead-based paints were commonly used in residential properties before the late 1970s, when regulations were established to limit the use of lead in paints. Therefore, buildings constructed before this time are considered at higher risk for lead exposure. In addition to this, older homes often have deteriorating paint, which increases the chances of lead dust release. Consequently, when conducting a lead hazard assessment, the age of the home serves as a significant indicator that influences the likelihood of lead contamination and the necessary steps for remediation and safety planning. While factors such as the number of bedrooms, location of the property, and type of inhabitants may contribute to overall risk assessments or the context of living conditions, they do not directly correlate with the specific risks associated with lead exposure as strongly as the age of the structure does.