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

What are interim controls meant to achieve when dealing with lead-based paint hazards?

1. Completely eradicate lead exposure

2. Allow renovation without precautions

3. Temporarily reduce exposure

4. Prevent future testing

The correct answer is: Temporarily reduce exposure

Interim controls are designed to temporarily reduce exposure to lead-based paint hazards while more permanent solutions are planned or implemented. These measures can include methods such as safely repairing, encapsulating, or sealing lead-painted surfaces to minimize lead dust and the likelihood of ingestion or inhalation of lead particles. This approach acknowledges that while complete eradication of lead exposure is ideal, it may not always be immediately feasible, especially in older buildings where lead paint has been used extensively. The goal with interim controls is to provide immediate protection to occupants, particularly children, by lowering the risk of lead exposure until more comprehensive abatement actions can be taken. The other options do not align with the purpose of interim controls. For example, completely eradicating lead exposure is a longer-term goal that requires more extensive abatement efforts. Renovation without precautions could lead to increased exposure rather than reducing it, and preventing future testing would not address the necessary evaluations to ensure ongoing safety. Therefore, the primary function of interim controls specifically focuses on the temporary mitigation of exposure to the health risks associated with lead-based paint.