CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What unit of measurement is used for lead in air samples?

1. Parts per million (ppm)

2. Micrograms per cubic meter (μg/M3)

3. Milligrams per liter (mg/L)

4. Grams per square meter (g/m2)

The correct answer is: Micrograms per cubic meter (μg/M3)

The appropriate unit of measurement for lead in air samples is micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³). This measurement is commonly used in air quality assessments to evaluate the concentration of airborne contaminants, including lead. Airborne concentrations are typically very low, making the microgram a more suitable unit than others, as it provides a clearer and more practical way to express these minute quantities. In environmental health and safety assessments, μg/m³ enables professionals to accurately determine exposure levels and ensure they are within acceptable limits, promoting public health compliance and safety. Using parts per million (ppm), while applicable in some contexts, is not the standard for airborne measurements. Milligrams per liter (mg/L) is predominantly used for liquid samples rather than air, and grams per square meter (g/m²) applies to surface area measurements rather than concentration in air. Each of these other units lacks the specificity and suitability required for accurately assessing lead levels in the air.