NHIE Environmental Concerns and Safety Issues 3

Question 1

The EPA action level for radon in indoor air that triggers mitigation is:

Accepted Answer

4 pCi/L

Answer

The EPA recommends mitigation when long-term radon levels in a home reach or exceed 4 picocuries per liter of air.

Question 2

Which test method provides the most accurate long-term radon measurement for real estate transactions?

Accepted Answer

Alpha track detector deployed for 90+ days

Answer

Alpha track detectors used for 90 days or more provide the most accurate representation of long-term average radon exposure.

Question 3

A home inspector finds spray-applied fireproofing on structural steel beams in a 1960s building. The correct recommendation is:

Accepted Answer

Do not disturb the material and recommend sampling by a certified industrial hygienist

Answer

Spray-applied fireproofing from that era is often asbestos-containing and must be sampled by a qualified professional before any determination or disturbance.

Question 4

Urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) was banned for residential use in 1982 because of concerns about:

Accepted Answer

Formaldehyde off-gassing causing respiratory irritation and potential carcinogenicity

Answer

The CPSC banned UFFI due to evidence that off-gassed formaldehyde caused eye and respiratory irritation and was a potential carcinogen.

Question 5

A home inspector detects a distinct rotten-egg odor near the water heater and gas lines. The most likely source is:

Accepted Answer

Natural gas odorant (mercaptan) indicating a potential gas leak

Answer

Natural gas is odorized with mercaptan (ethyl mercaptan) which has a strong rotten-egg smell, and its presence near gas equipment indicates a potential leak requiring immediate action.

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

NHIE Environmental Concerns and Safety Issues 3