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

Which of the following is a short-term solution to address lead hazards?

1. Abatement

2. Paint stabilization

3. Demolition

4. Long-term monitoring

The correct answer is: Paint stabilization

Paint stabilization is considered a short-term solution to address lead hazards because it focuses on managing existing lead-based paint in a way that reduces the risk of lead exposure. This method involves repairing deteriorated paint surfaces, applying protective coatings, or encapsulating the lead-based paint to prevent it from generating lead dust or chips. The objective is to temporarily mitigate the immediate risks associated with lead hazards while allowing for future consideration of more permanent solutions. In contrast, abatement refers to comprehensive measures taken to remove lead and lead hazards from the environment, which typically requires more extensive work and is considered a long-term solution. Demolition involves tearing down structures that may contain lead hazards but does not directly address the hazards in place, and long-term monitoring involves ongoing observations to ensure lead hazards are effectively managed over time, rather than directly eliminating immediate risk. Therefore, paint stabilization effectively addresses urgent lead hazards in a manageable and practical way until a permanent solution can be implemented.