EPA Containment Setup & Waste Disposal 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum polyethylene sheeting thickness required for interior containment under the EPA RRP Rule?
- 6-mil polyethylene sheeting (Correct answer)
- 1-mil polyethylene sheeting
- 3-mil polyethylene sheeting
- 10-mil polyethylene sheeting
Correct answer: 6-mil polyethylene sheeting
The EPA RRP Rule and associated guidance recommend 6-mil polyethylene sheeting for interior containment to prevent lead dust migration.
Question 2: For interior renovation work, how far should protective sheeting extend from the work area walls?
- At least 6 feet in all directions from the work area (Correct answer)
- At least 2 feet in all directions from the work area
- Only directly beneath the work surface
- Across the entire room regardless of work area size
Correct answer: At least 6 feet in all directions from the work area
Interior containment sheeting must extend at least 6 feet in all directions from the work area to capture dust and debris.
Question 3: Which of the following items must be covered or removed from an interior work area before renovation begins?
- Furniture, carpets, and HVAC system vents (Correct answer)
- Only soft furniture and upholstered items
- Windows and light switches only
- Artwork and wall decorations only
Correct answer: Furniture, carpets, and HVAC system vents
All furniture, floor coverings, and HVAC openings must be covered or removed to prevent lead dust contamination of those surfaces.
Question 4: What is the purpose of sealing HVAC vents and returns during interior lead renovation work?
- To prevent lead dust from spreading through the duct system to other areas of the building (Correct answer)
- To reduce utility costs during the renovation project
- To meet fire code requirements for renovation projects
- To prevent fumes from latex paint from spreading
Correct answer: To prevent lead dust from spreading through the duct system to other areas of the building
Sealing HVAC vents prevents lead dust from being drawn into the duct system and distributed to unaffected areas of the building.
Question 5: For exterior lead renovation work, when is additional warning signage and containment required?
- When work could affect soil, water, or neighboring properties (Correct answer)
- Only when the property is within a school zone
- Only during summer months when windows are open
- Only when the building is taller than two stories
Correct answer: When work could affect soil, water, or neighboring properties
Exterior containment must prevent lead dust and chips from contaminating soil, water, and areas beyond the property, including neighboring properties.
Question 6: What should a renovator do if wind or weather conditions make exterior containment ineffective during a renovation?
- Stop work until conditions improve or alternative containment can be established (Correct answer)
- Continue working but post additional warning signs
- Switch entirely to interior renovation tasks for the day
- Double the amount of ground sheeting as a compensating measure
Correct answer: Stop work until conditions improve or alternative containment can be established
If weather conditions compromise exterior containment effectiveness, work must stop to prevent uncontrolled lead dust dispersal.
What is the minimum polyethylene sheeting thickness required for interior containment under the EPA RRP Rule?