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

What is the purpose of abatement of soil in lead remediation?

1. To enhance soil fertility

2. To remove and replace contaminated soil

3. To create a landscaped environment

4. To minimize surface runoff

The correct answer is: To remove and replace contaminated soil

The purpose of abatement of soil in lead remediation is primarily to remove and replace contaminated soil. Lead contamination in soil poses significant health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women since lead can enter the body through ingestion or inhalation of soil dust. Abatement aims to eliminate these risks by physically removing the lead-contaminated top layers of soil and replacing them with clean, uncontaminated soil. This process is crucial in ensuring that the area is safe for habitation and is a key strategy in reducing lead exposure in the environment. Additionally, while enhancing soil fertility, creating a landscaped environment, and minimizing surface runoff may be beneficial in other contexts, these do not directly address the specific goal of lead remediation. In the context of lead abatement, the priority is to eliminate the source of contamination rather than to improve aesthetic or agricultural aspects of the soil. Thus, the focus on removing and replacing contaminated soil is central to effective lead remediation efforts.