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

What should a risk assessor specifically look for on stairs and flooring?

1. New paint applications

2. Signs of wear and abrasion

3. Type of material used

4. Patterns of use

The correct answer is: Signs of wear and abrasion

The focus on signs of wear and abrasion on stairs and flooring is crucial for a risk assessor evaluating lead-based paint hazards. These signs can indicate where lead dust may accumulate or where lead-containing paint could be disturbed, potentially releasing lead particles into the environment. Stairs and flooring are high-traffic areas, meaning they experience more wear than other surfaces. This wear can reveal underlying lead paint, especially in older structures where lead-based paint was commonly used prior to regulations banning its use. While new paint applications, the type of material used, and patterns of use do play roles in the overall assessment, they do not specifically indicate potential lead exposure as clearly as signs of wear and abrasion do. For instance, newly painted surfaces may appear safe but could still hide underlying lead paint that hasn't been properly managed. Understanding the wear and tear on stairs and flooring aids in identifying the likelihood and potential risk of lead exposure, making it a key aspect of the risk assessment process.