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

What action should be taken if a risk assessor finds flaking paint during an assessment?

1. Ignore it

2. Document and assess potential hazards

3. Cover it with new paint

4. Notify the homeowner only

The correct answer is: Document and assess potential hazards

When a risk assessor finds flaking paint during an assessment, documenting and assessing potential hazards is crucial. This action is important because flaking paint can indicate the presence of lead, especially in homes built before 1978 when lead-based paint was commonly used. Proper documentation of the conditions found, including flaking paint, helps in creating a comprehensive risk assessment report. It ensures that potential risks are identified and can be addressed appropriately. Assessing the extent of the hazard—such as the area affected, the condition of the paint, and the potential for exposure—is essential for determining what remediation steps may be necessary to protect the health of occupants, especially children who are more vulnerable to lead exposure. Ignoring the flaking paint would neglect a critical hazard that could expose residents to lead. Simply covering it with new paint does not address the underlying issue and can result in the continued risk of exposure. Notifying the homeowner of the flaking paint is important, yet it is insufficient if it does not involve a thorough assessment of the risks involved. Therefore, documenting and assessing is the appropriate response.