EPA Lead Abatement Methods & Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During mechanical paint removal, which control measure is required to prevent dust dispersal?
- Using only dry methods
- Attaching HEPA-filtered vacuum systems to tools (Correct answer)
- Keeping windows open for ventilation
- Applying oil to surfaces before scraping
Correct answer: Attaching HEPA-filtered vacuum systems to tools
HEPA-filtered vacuum attachments capture lead dust at the source during mechanical removal, preventing it from becoming airborne.
Question 2: What minimum temperature restriction applies to heat gun use during lead paint removal to prevent lead fume generation?
- Below 500°F
- Below 800°F
- Below 1,100°F (Correct answer)
- Below 1,500°F
Correct answer: Below 1,100°F
EPA regulations require heat guns to operate below 1,100°F because higher temperatures volatilize lead, creating dangerous airborne lead fumes.
Question 3: Which abatement method is considered a 'permanent' solution under EPA regulations?
- Interim controls
- Encapsulation with standard latex paint
- Paint removal down to bare substrate (Correct answer)
- Repainting with non-lead paint
Correct answer: Paint removal down to bare substrate
Paint removal down to bare substrate is considered permanent abatement because it eliminates the lead-based paint source entirely.
Question 4: Before starting abatement on a friction surface such as a window sill, what unique concern must be addressed?
- The surface must be repainted first
- Lead dust is generated continuously through normal use even after abatement (Correct answer)
- Friction surfaces cannot be abated
- Only encapsulation is permitted on friction surfaces
Correct answer: Lead dust is generated continuously through normal use even after abatement
Friction surfaces generate lead dust through ongoing wear, so abatement must be permanent (removal or replacement) rather than encapsulation alone.
Question 5: After lead paint abatement using chemical stripping, what must be done with the waste material?
- It can be poured down a drain
- It must be disposed of as hazardous waste per applicable regulations (Correct answer)
- It can be mixed with regular job-site debris
- It should be reapplied to seal remaining surfaces
Correct answer: It must be disposed of as hazardous waste per applicable regulations
Lead paint waste from chemical stripping contains lead compounds and must be managed as hazardous waste in accordance with federal and state regulations.
Question 6: Which type of respirator is required for contractors performing dry abrasive blasting of lead-painted surfaces?
- N95 filtering facepiece
- Half-face APF-10 respirator
- Supplied-air respirator (SAR) (Correct answer)
- Surgical mask
Correct answer: Supplied-air respirator (SAR)
Dry abrasive blasting generates extremely high concentrations of lead dust, requiring a supplied-air respirator to provide the highest level of respiratory protection.
EPA Lead Abatement Methods & Techniques 2
During mechanical paint removal, which control measure is required to prevent dust dispersal?