Health & Safety Evaluation Flashcards

Under HQS, how many working smoke detectors are required in a housing unit?

Answer: One per floor, including basement if occupied

HQS requires at least one functioning smoke detector on each level of the unit, including the basement if used as habitable space.

What is the primary health hazard associated with asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in older HUD-assisted housing?

Answer: Inhalation of airborne fibers causing mesothelioma and lung disease

Asbestos poses its primary health risk when fibers become airborne and are inhaled, potentially causing mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Under HUD's Lead Safe Housing Rule, what is required before disturbing more than a de minimis amount of lead-based paint in pre-1978 federally assisted housing?

Answer: Occupant notification, safe work practices, clearance testing, and documentation

HUD requires a comprehensive lead-safe process including occupant notification, use of certified workers following safe work practices, clearance testing after work, and documentation of all activities.

A HUD inspector observes standing water in a unit's basement and visible mold on the walls. Under HQS, this condition relates to which inspection category?

Answer: Interior Air Quality and Sanitary Conditions

Standing water and mold relate to Interior Air Quality (mold as an air contaminant) and Sanitary Conditions (accumulated moisture/standing water). Both HQS categories may be cited.

Which federal agency, in partnership with HUD, regulates lead-based paint activities in target housing under Title X?

Answer: EPA

The EPA, in partnership with HUD, regulates lead-based paint disclosure, hazard reduction, training, and certification for lead activities in pre-1978 residential housing under Title X.

Under HQS electrical safety requirements, an inspector finds a double-tapped circuit breaker (two wires on a single breaker not designed for it). This is cited as a deficiency because:

Answer: It can prevent the breaker from properly protecting the circuit, creating fire and shock hazards

Double-tapping a breaker not designed for it means neither wire may be properly clamped, preventing the breaker from tripping correctly and creating overheating, arcing, and fire hazards.