Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Model Lead Based Paint Risk Assessor Practice Test

What is the most common method for children to be exposed to lead?

1. Playing outside

2. Ingesting or chewing on contaminated components

3. Exposure to community dust

4. Innocuous food sources

The correct answer is: Ingesting or chewing on contaminated components

The most common method for children to be exposed to lead is through ingesting or chewing on contaminated components. This often occurs when children put objects into their mouths, such as toys, furniture, or building materials that may contain lead-based paint or dust. Lead exposure is particularly concerning among young children because they are naturally inclined to explore their environments by tasting and chewing on items. Additionally, if a home has lead-based paint that is deteriorating, small chips can fall and create a hazardous environment where children can easily access these dangerous materials. While playing outside can also expose children to lead through soil or dust in certain areas, and exposure to community dust is a potential risk, the direct action of putting contaminated items in their mouths represents a more immediate and typical pathway for lead ingestion. Foods can occasionally contain lead due to soil contamination; however, it is much less common than the direct ingestion of lead-contaminated items. Thus, the behavior of ingesting or chewing on contaminated components stands out as the primary way that children are exposed to lead.