Environmental & Safety Assessment Flashcards

What is the primary hazard associated with knob-and-tube wiring in older homes?

Answer: It always lacks a ground wire and may be insulated with degraded materials

Knob-and-tube wiring lacks grounding and its rubber insulation degrades over time, creating shock and fire hazards.

Which federal law requires sellers to disclose known lead-based paint hazards in homes built before 1978?

Answer: TSCA Title IV (Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act)

The Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title IV of TSCA) mandates disclosure of known lead hazards before home sale.

A home inspector observes white, chalky staining on a basement concrete block wall. This is MOST likely:

Answer: Efflorescence caused by water migrating through the masonry

Efflorescence is mineral salt deposits left on masonry surfaces when water evaporates after migrating through the block.

At what height above finished floor must stair handrails be installed per standard building codes?

Answer: 34 to 38 inches

Standard building codes require stair handrails to be mounted 34 to 38 inches above the stair nosing.

Which area of a home is MOST likely to have elevated radon concentrations?

Answer: Basement or lowest level in contact with soil

Radon, being a heavy gas that seeps from soil, accumulates most in basements and lowest occupied levels.

A home inspector finds a water heater installed in a bedroom closet without any combustion air supply. The primary safety concern is:

Answer: Incomplete combustion may produce carbon monoxide and backdrafting may occur

Gas appliances need adequate combustion air; without it, incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide and backdrafting becomes likely.

What is the purpose of a p-trap under a sink?

Answer: To hold a water seal that blocks sewer gases from entering the home

The water retained in a p-trap creates a seal that prevents toxic and odorous sewer gases from entering the living space.