Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

Which entity sets clearance levels for lead hazard assessments in residential properties?

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

2. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

3. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

The correct answer is: Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

The entity responsible for establishing clearance levels for lead hazard assessments in residential properties is the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD is tasked with implementing policies that ensure safe and healthy housing, particularly in relation to lead exposure, which is a significant public health concern, especially in older homes. By setting clearance levels, HUD provides guidelines that help identify whether a property is safe for occupancy after lead hazard reduction work has been conducted. This is crucial for protecting residents, especially children, from lead poisoning which can result in serious health issues. While other organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) play important roles in public health and safety regarding lead, they do not specifically set clearance levels for lead hazard assessments in residential settings. The CDC provides guidelines and recommendations related to lead exposure and health impact, the EPA sets regulations regarding lead in various environments, but HUD specifically focuses on residential properties and the standards that dictate when a home can be considered safe for occupancy after lead remediation activities.