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

Which control measures are part of primary prevention for lead-based paint hazards?

1. Regular cleaning schedules

2. Painting rooms with bright colors

3. Surface by surface testing

4. Installing better ventilation systems

The correct answer is: Surface by surface testing

In the context of lead-based paint hazards, primary prevention focuses on measures that can be implemented to prevent exposure before it occurs. Surface by surface testing is a critical aspect of primary prevention because it allows for the identification of lead-based paint hazards in a home or environment, enabling the appropriate actions to be taken to mitigate those hazards before they pose a risk to occupants, especially young children and pregnant women who are most vulnerable to lead exposure. Testing surfaces for lead paint presence helps determine the areas that require remediation or additional safety measures, thus proactively addressing potential risks rather than responding to lead exposure after it has occurred. This proactive approach is integral to primary prevention strategies aimed at safeguarding public health. Regular cleaning schedules and installing better ventilation systems are important for maintaining a safe environment but are more aligned with secondary prevention methods, which address hazards that have already been identified. Painting rooms with bright colors does not directly contribute to the reduction of lead-based paint hazards and does not form part of a preventive strategy.