Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

What is the EPA action level criteria for lead in drinking water?

1. 2.5 ug/dL

2. 15 ug/dL

3. 5 ug/dL

4. 10 ug/dL

The correct answer is: 5 ug/dL

The correct action level for lead in drinking water, as established by the EPA, is 15 micrograms per liter (ug/L), or parts per billion (ppb). This means that if more than 15 ug/L of lead is detected in a drinking water sample, the water supplier is required to take action to remediate the situation. While 5 ug/dL might refer to blood lead levels in children, the specific context of the question focuses on the lead concentration allowable in drinking water, which is clearly defined at 15 ug/L. Understanding these parameters is crucial because they guide interventions to protect public health, particularly vulnerable populations like children, who are more susceptible to the harmful effects of lead exposure.