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

Which factor does NOT represent a hazard during a visual assessment?

1. Cracks in the walls

2. Paint chips located indoors

3. Decorative wall hangings

4. Leaking ceilings

The correct answer is: Decorative wall hangings

During a visual assessment for lead-based paint hazards, the evaluation focuses on identifying conditions that can pose a risk of lead exposure. Decorative wall hangings do not inherently represent a lead exposure hazard. In contrast, cracks in the walls, paint chips located indoors, and leaking ceilings are all conditions that can indicate the presence of lead-based paint or can create scenarios where lead dust or chips may be released into the environment, leading to potential health risks. Cracks in the walls may expose layers of lead-based paint, allowing lead particles to enter the air or settle on surfaces. Paint chips located indoors are a direct indicator that lead-based paint may be deteriorating and potentially posing a hazard to residents, especially children. Leaking ceilings could also lead to moisture issues that promote deterioration of paint, increasing the risk of lead exposure through dust and debris. In summary, decorative wall hangings do not contribute to lead exposure risks and thus do not represent a hazard during visual assessments, making them the correct answer in this context.