EPA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield EPA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which building component is most commonly associated with lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 housing? → Interior trim, window frames, and door frames
2. Which document informs residents about lead hazards before work begins? → Renovate Right pamphlet
3. How long is an EPA-certified renovator's initial certification valid before refresher training is required? → 5 years
4. Which of the following best describes the 'negative pressure enclosure' method used in high-risk lead abatement? → Creating lower air pressure inside the work area so air flows inward rather than outward
5. What equipment must be used for post-renovation cleaning? → HEPA-filtered vacuum
6. Which material is recommended for containing dust during lead work? → Plastic sheeting
7. When must a lead-certified contractor provide blood lead level (BLL) testing for workers? → At least every 6 months when workers are exposed above the action level
8. In a lead inspection report, which component designations must be recorded for each tested surface? → Room, component type, substrate material, test result, and lead-based paint determination
9. What is the purpose of containment during lead renovation? → To prevent lead contamination
10. State environmental agencies with EPA-approved lead programs may establish waste disposal standards that are: → At least as stringent as federal EPA standards, or more stringent
11. Who can perform lead-safe renovation work? → EPA-certified renovators and firms
12. What should be documented if lead dust clearance testing is conducted? → Testing results and laboratory reports
13. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.62, when a worker's blood lead level reaches 50 µg/dL, what must the employer do? → Remove the worker from lead exposure until BLL drops below 40 µg/dL
14. Under EPA regulations, which surfaces are defined as 'impact surfaces' requiring special consideration during abatement? → Surfaces subject to damage from repeated striking, such as door stops and stair risers
15. Under the EPA RRP Rule, which activity requires contractors to use lead-safe work practices to protect themselves and occupants? → Disturbing more than 6 sq ft of lead paint indoors per room
16. How must an accredited training provider document that a student completed an EPA lead training course? → Issue a training certificate and submit records to the EPA or state authority
17. Which materials are used for setting up containment barriers? → Plastic sheeting and tape
18. What is the minimum duration of the initial EPA renovator certification training course? → 8 hours
19. How long must lead-safe work records be kept? → Three years
20. What PPE is necessary during lead paint removal? → Respirators, coveralls, gloves, and goggles
21. What document is required by RCRA to track hazardous waste shipments from a lead abatement site to a permitted disposal facility? → Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest
22. In states with EPA-authorized lead programs, who certifies renovators — the EPA or the state? → The state agency authorized by the EPA to run the program
23. What is the maximum on-site accumulation time allowed for a Small Quantity Generator (SQG) of lead hazardous waste before shipment to a disposal facility? → 270 days
24. Which of the following is considered a 'deteriorated paint' condition that requires remediation under the HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule? → Paint that is peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking
25. Why is hazard identification critical on a worksite? → To prevent injuries and manage risks proactively
26. When should containment be installed? → Before starting renovation work
27. Which EPA lead program requires a 3-day (24-hour) initial training course with a hands-on component? → Lead Abatement Worker certification
28. Which federal law establishes the cradle-to-grave regulatory framework governing hazardous waste from lead abatement projects? → RCRA
29. Which labeling information is required by RCRA on hazardous waste containers stored at a lead abatement site? → 'Hazardous Waste,' waste description, and accumulation start date
30. Who administers the EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) certification program at the federal level? → EPA