EPA Worker Protection & PPE 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: After completing lead renovation work, how should a worker's reusable work boots be handled?
- HEPA-vacuumed or wiped with a damp cloth before leaving the work area (Correct answer)
- Rinsed with a garden hose outdoors
- Left inside the work area until the next day
- Discarded as lead waste along with disposable PPE
Correct answer: HEPA-vacuumed or wiped with a damp cloth before leaving the work area
Reusable work boots should be HEPA-vacuumed or damp-wiped at the work area exit point to prevent tracking lead dust outside.
Question 2: What is the correct way to remove disposable coveralls to minimize lead dust exposure?
- Roll them inward (inside-out) from the shoulders downward (Correct answer)
- Shake them vigorously to remove loose dust before removing
- Pull them off over the head as quickly as possible
- Cut them off with scissors and discard immediately
Correct answer: Roll them inward (inside-out) from the shoulders downward
Rolling coveralls inward while removing them keeps any surface lead dust contained inside the garment, minimizing re-suspension.
Question 3: Which of the following renovation tasks generates the HIGHEST levels of airborne lead dust?
- Dry sanding or dry scraping lead-painted surfaces (Correct answer)
- Applying fresh paint over intact lead-based paint
- Cleaning lead dust with a damp mop
- Installing new windows over lead-painted frames without disturbing them
Correct answer: Dry sanding or dry scraping lead-painted surfaces
Dry sanding and dry scraping generate the greatest amounts of fine airborne lead dust particles among renovation activities.
Question 4: Under the RRP Rule, which renovation activity is specifically PROHIBITED due to high lead dust generation?
- Open-flame burning or torching of lead-based paint (Correct answer)
- Wet-sanding with lead paint-approved solutions
- HEPA-vacuum sanding with attached vacuum
- Hand-scraping with a wet rag nearby
Correct answer: Open-flame burning or torching of lead-based paint
Open-flame burning or torching of lead-based paint is explicitly prohibited by the RRP Rule because it generates toxic lead fumes and particles.
Question 5: If a worker performing lead renovation work shows symptoms of lead poisoning such as headache and fatigue, what is the appropriate response?
- Remove the worker from exposure and seek medical evaluation (Correct answer)
- Have the worker increase water intake and continue working with a respirator
- Switch the worker to outdoor tasks only for the remainder of the day
- Administer chelation therapy on-site before contacting a physician
Correct answer: Remove the worker from exposure and seek medical evaluation
Any worker showing signs of lead exposure symptoms must be removed from the work area immediately and evaluated by a medical professional.
Question 6: Eye protection is recommended during lead renovation work primarily to protect against:
- Lead dust or paint chip contact with the eyes (Correct answer)
- UV radiation from lead-based paint compounds
- Chemical fumes from lead paint solvents
- Electrical hazards from lead-painted wiring
Correct answer: Lead dust or paint chip contact with the eyes
Safety goggles or glasses protect workers' eyes from lead dust particles and paint chips dislodged during renovation activities.
EPA Worker Protection & PPE 2
After completing lead renovation work, how should a worker's reusable work boots be handled?