EPA Worker Protection & PPE

Question 1

Which type of respirator provides the minimum level of protection for workers disturbing lead-based paint during renovation?

Accepted Answer

N-100 half-face air-purifying respirator

Answer

OSHA recommends at minimum an N-100 (HEPA) half-face air-purifying respirator for lead paint disturbance activities.

Question 2

Before using a respirator for lead renovation work, what must workers complete under OSHA's Respiratory Protection Standard?

Accepted Answer

A medical evaluation and fit test

Answer

OSHA requires workers to pass a medical evaluation and a fit test before using a tight-fitting respirator for lead dust exposure.

Question 3

What type of protective suit is recommended for lead renovation workers to prevent skin and clothing contamination?

Accepted Answer

Disposable full-body coveralls

Answer

Disposable full-body coveralls prevent lead dust from contaminating workers' skin and street clothes during renovation.

Question 4

How should workers decontaminate themselves before leaving a lead renovation work area?

Accepted Answer

Remove and bag disposable PPE, then HEPA-vacuum clothing or wash hands and face

Answer

Workers must remove and bag disposable PPE within the work area, then HEPA-vacuum or wash exposed skin before leaving the containment zone.

Question 5

Why should workers never eat, drink, or smoke inside a lead renovation work area?

Accepted Answer

Ingestion of lead dust is a primary route of lead exposure

Answer

Eating or drinking in a contaminated work area can result in ingestion of lead dust, which is a direct route of lead poisoning.

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency Certified Renovator Practice Test