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

What type of gloves should a Risk Assessor use for dust wipe sampling?

1. Sterilized and powdered gloves

2. Sterilized and non-powdered gloves

3. Non-sterilized and non-powdered gloves

4. Latex gloves only

The correct answer is: Non-sterilized and non-powdered gloves

For dust wipe sampling, the use of non-sterilized and non-powdered gloves is essential primarily because powdered gloves can contaminate the samples with talc or other materials used in the glove manufacturing process. Non-powdered gloves help to eliminate this risk and minimize any potential interference with lead measurements that may occur due to residues or particles. Additionally, using non-sterilized gloves is acceptable in this context because the primary goal is to avoid contaminating the sample, rather than to ensure the gloves are free from microorganisms. Since the primary risk in this scenario relates to lead exposure rather than biological contamination, non-sterile, non-powdered gloves are suitable for handling surface wipe samples without introducing variables that could affect the integrity of the dust samples collected. In summary, the choice of non-sterilized, non-powdered gloves is specifically aligned with best practices in risk assessment for lead-based paint, facilitating accurate and uncontaminated sampling.