CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

How is Lead-contaminated Soil defined under the EPA/HUD standard?

1. ≥ 200 ppm in a child's play area

2. ≥ 400 ppm in a child's play area or ≥ 1,200 ppm in other areas

3. ≥ 800 ppm in residential areas or ≥ 1,000 ppm in other areas

4. ≥ 400 ppm in all areas

The correct answer is: ≥ 400 ppm in a child's play area or ≥ 1,200 ppm in other areas

Lead-contaminated soil is defined under the EPA/HUD standard by specific thresholds that identify levels of lead that pose risks to human health, particularly to children who may play in affected areas. According to the standard, soil is considered lead-contaminated if it contains levels of lead equal to or greater than 400 parts per million (ppm) in children's play areas. Additionally, in other areas, the threshold for soil to be considered lead-contaminated is 1,200 ppm. These thresholds were established to help ensure the safety and well-being of children, who are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure. The thresholds are based on the understanding that children are more likely to come into direct contact with soil through activities such as playing outdoors, digging, or exploratory behavior. Therefore, the lower threshold in play areas aims to provide an extra level of protection. Conversely, higher levels in non-play areas acknowledge different exposure risks, thereby setting an appropriate benchmark for soil safety assessments.