EPA Lead Paint Testing & Identification 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which test kit color result indicates the presence of lead when using an EPA-recognized lead test kit?
- Pink or red (Correct answer)
- Yellow or orange
- Blue or green
- No color change
Correct answer: Pink or red
A pink or red color change on an EPA-recognized lead test kit indicates a positive result for lead-based paint.
Question 2: What is the regulatory threshold for lead-based paint under the EPA RRP Rule?
- 1.0 mg/cm² or 0.5% by weight (Correct answer)
- 0.5 mg/cm² or 0.1% by weight
- 2.0 mg/cm² or 1.0% by weight
- 0.1 mg/cm² or 0.05% by weight
Correct answer: 1.0 mg/cm² or 0.5% by weight
The EPA defines lead-based paint as paint containing 1.0 mg/cm² or 0.5% by weight of lead.
Question 3: Which method is considered the most accurate for determining whether paint contains lead?
- Laboratory analysis by an accredited lab (Correct answer)
- EPA-recognized chemical spot test kit
- X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer used by a renovator
- Visual inspection by a certified renovator
Correct answer: Laboratory analysis by an accredited lab
Laboratory analysis by an accredited lab is the gold standard for definitively determining lead content in paint.
Question 4: Under the EPA RRP Rule, who is authorized to use an XRF analyzer to test for lead-based paint?
- Only a certified lead inspector or risk assessor (Correct answer)
- Any certified renovator
- Any trained renovation worker
- Any licensed contractor
Correct answer: Only a certified lead inspector or risk assessor
XRF analyzers may only be used by EPA- or state-certified lead inspectors or risk assessors, not renovators.
Question 5: If an EPA-recognized test kit gives a negative result but the renovator suspects lead, what should be done?
- Assume lead is present and follow lead-safe work practices (Correct answer)
- Proceed without lead-safe practices since the test was negative
- Apply a second coat of paint to cover potential lead
- File a waiver with the EPA before proceeding
Correct answer: Assume lead is present and follow lead-safe work practices
If there is any doubt about a negative test result, the safest and compliant approach is to treat the surface as if it contains lead.
Question 6: What must a renovator do before using an EPA-recognized test kit on a painted surface?
- Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific kit (Correct answer)
- Sand the surface to remove any topcoat
- Apply a chemical primer to activate the surface
- Notify the occupants and wait 24 hours
Correct answer: Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific kit
Renovators must follow the manufacturer's instructions for each test kit to ensure accurate and reliable results.
EPA Lead Paint Testing & Identification 1
Which test kit color result indicates the presence of lead when using an EPA-recognized lead test kit?