CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What do you calculate when performing an exposure assessment?

1. The average lead levels in the entire building

2. The potential risks based on lead presence

3. Total square footage of lead-painted surfaces

4. The types of paint found in the home

The correct answer is: The potential risks based on lead presence

Calculating the potential risks based on lead presence is crucial during an exposure assessment because it allows professionals to evaluate how the presence of lead may affect occupants, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. This involves analyzing various factors, including how lead is being used or disturbed within the environment, and the likelihood of lead exposure through dust, soil, or deteriorating paint. By assessing the potential risks, an inspector can determine necessary interventions and protective measures to mitigate those risks. While understanding average lead levels in a building, total square footage of lead-painted surfaces, and the types of paint found in a home may provide valuable information, they do not directly inform about the actual risk of exposure. These factors can be part of a more comprehensive assessment, but the primary goal of an exposure assessment is to identify the risk to occupants based on what is present and how it may impact their health.