CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What is the EPA/HUD definition of lead-based paint?

1. ≥ 0.5% by weight or ≥ 5000 ppm

2. ≥ 0.5% by weight or ≥ 1.0 mg/cm2 or ≥ 5000 ppm

3. 0.5-1.0 mg/cm2 and ≤ 5000 ppm

4. Only paints containing ≥ 1.0 mg/cm2

The correct answer is: ≥ 0.5% by weight or ≥ 1.0 mg/cm2 or ≥ 5000 ppm

The definition of lead-based paint set by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development) is significant for identifying and managing lead hazards in residential properties. The correct answer indicates that lead-based paint is defined as having a lead content of either a minimum of 0.5% by weight, at least 1.0 mg/cm² of lead, or being quantitatively measured to contain at least 5000 ppm (parts per million) of lead. This definition incorporates multiple thresholds for lead concentration, allowing for flexibility in testing methods and approaches. By including various units of measurement, it ensures that lead hazards can be flagged regardless of how the lead concentration is quantified—whether that be in weight percentage, surface area concentration, or by parts per million. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that all properties that could present a risk of lead exposure are adequately assessed and managed. Other choices lack one or more of these critical components, failing to capture the full scope of what constitutes lead-based paint under the federal guidelines. For instance, one option might miss the weight percentage while another may not account for the necessary surface area measurement, leading to incomplete assessments of the risk associated with lead in paint.