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. Lead renovation waste (paint chips, used sheeting, disposable PPE) is classified under federal regulations as: → Household hazardous waste, typically exempt from RCRA hazardous waste regulations
2. States with EPA-authorized RRP programs may have requirements that are: → As stringent as or more stringent than the federal EPA RRP Rule
3. Child-occupied facilities covered by the RRP Rule include which of the following? → Day care centers built before 1978
4. What must be done if visible dust remains after cleanup? → Re-clean using HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping
5. What is the minimum polyethylene sheeting thickness required for interior containment under the EPA RRP Rule? → 6-mil polyethylene sheeting
6. What action should be taken if an area fails cleaning verification? → Re-clean and re-verify the area
7. What documentation is required when a renovator determines a surface does NOT contain lead based on test results? → A report describing the test results and the surfaces tested
8. Why is cleaning verification important after lead renovation? → To confirm the area is safe and free of lead dust
9. A contractor generates lead paint chips and dust during a renovation. Who is responsible for proper waste disposal? → The renovation firm performing the work
10. When must contractors renew their RRP certifications? → Every five years
11. When must cleaning verification be performed? → Immediately after cleaning
12. Why is recordkeeping critical for EPA compliance? → To demonstrate compliance with EPA rules
13. What is the role of signage in risk reduction? → To warn and inform about hazards
14. Why should workers never eat, drink, or smoke inside a lead renovation work area? → Ingestion of lead dust is a primary route of lead exposure
15. A test kit is used on a painted surface and produces an inconclusive result. Under the RRP Rule, this surface must be treated as: → Containing lead-based paint
16. Which type of training is mandatory for renovators under the RRP Rule? → EPA-accredited lead-safe work practices course
17. What is the correct way to clean up after lead-safe renovation work? → HEPA vacuum followed by wet wiping
18. Which year is the key cutoff for target housing under the EPA RRP Rule? → 1978
19. What is the purpose of pre-renovation education documentation? → To confirm occupants were informed about lead hazards
20. What is the correct way to remove disposable coveralls to minimize lead dust exposure? → Roll them inward (inside-out) from the shoulders downward
21. Which regulation governs lead-safe renovation work? → Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule
22. Which of the following actions is prohibited during interior lead renovation containment setup? → Using fans to create positive air pressure that pushes air out of the work area
23. Which statement about the RRP Rule's applicability to zero-bedroom (studio) dwellings is CORRECT? → Studio apartments built before 1978 are covered by the RRP Rule
24. Under the RRP Rule, renovation activities on pre-1978 housing may proceed without lead-safe practices only if: → A certified renovator has determined through testing that no lead-based paint is present
25. In owner-occupied target housing, when must the renovator provide the 'Renovate Right' pamphlet to the owner? → Before the renovation begins
26. What is a key factor for successfully reducing risks on-site? → Teamwide safety responsibility and culture
27. Which projects are exempt from the RRP Rule? → Projects disturbing very small amounts of lead paint
28. Which groups are considered most vulnerable to the health effects of lead exposure? → Children under 6 years old and pregnant women
29. When must the work area be available for re-occupancy by residents following lead renovation? → Only after cleaning verification has been successfully completed
30. Why is hazard recognition important in renovation work? → To prevent accidents and health risks