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

What is one of the key differences between a lead inspection and a risk assessment?

1. A risk assessment includes demographic studies of the community

2. A lead inspection only identifies lead hazards

3. A risk assessment may exempt a dwelling from full requirements

4. A lead inspection is mandatory while a risk assessment is optional

The correct answer is: A risk assessment may exempt a dwelling from full requirements

A risk assessment is an essential process that goes beyond merely identifying lead hazards; it evaluates and determines the potential for lead exposure in a specific environment. One of the key differentiators is that a risk assessment can identify the presence of lead-based paint as well as other lead sources and assess the risk they present to human health. Importantly, a risk assessment may also help to determine whether certain dwellings may be exempt from specific regulatory requirements if they are found to pose a lower risk. In contrast, a lead inspection is focused solely on detecting lead-based paint and does not assess the risk associated with those findings. While lead inspections can identify where lead is present, they do not provide an overall evaluation of exposure risk related to other environmental factors. Thus, a risk assessment can inform decisions related to regulatory compliance and management of lead hazards, including potential exemptions, making it a more comprehensive approach than a simple lead inspection.