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

What type of container should a Risk Assessor use to collect wipe samples?

1. PVC container

2. Glass vial

3. Centrifuge tube

4. Plastic bag

The correct answer is: Centrifuge tube

The ideal choice for collecting wipe samples as a Risk Assessor is a centrifuge tube. Centrifuge tubes are specifically designed to hold liquid samples and are typically made from materials that reduce the risk of contamination. Their secure closure prevents leakage, ensuring the integrity of the samples during transport and storage. When evaluating the characteristics of various containers, it’s important to consider both contamination prevention and compatibility with the samples being collected. Centrifuge tubes often have a graduated design that allows for accurate measurement of sample volumes, which is essential in risk assessment procedures for evaluating lead contamination levels. While other containers, such as glass vials or plastic bags, may have some utility, they do not offer the same level of security and suitability for wipe samples as centrifuge tubes do. Glass vials might risk breakage, and plastic bags may not provide adequate protection against sample degradation or contamination during handling. Therefore, using a centrifuge tube optimally supports the accuracy and reliability required in lead risk assessments.