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

For bare soil sampling, is it necessary to collect subsamples?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if contamination is suspected

4. Only for garden areas

The correct answer is: No

In the context of bare soil sampling for lead risk assessment, it is necessary to understand the implications of testing procedures and the importance of sampling methodology. When conducting bare soil assessments, collecting a single sample generally suffices for determining the lead concentration levels, particularly when the area in question does not show signs of contamination. Subsampling typically involves taking samples from multiple locations within a specific area, and while it can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the variability in lead levels, it is not a requirement for all soil sampling situations. When the main goal is to assess lead content for regulatory purposes or to confirm safe levels in an area (such as a yard or playground), a single well-placed sample can provide adequate information without the necessity for subsampling. This approach also aligns with practical considerations, as the costs and time associated with taking multiple subsamples can be significantly higher, and for many risk assessments, a single representative sample can yield sufficient data for decision-making. Thus, for bare soil sampling without any preliminary indication of contamination, the correct practice is to collect a single sample rather than multiple subsamples.