CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What happens to the copy of form 8551 after clearance is obtained?

1. It must be shredded

2. It can be removed

3. It must be filed away

4. It should be kept indefinitely

The correct answer is: It can be removed

After clearance is obtained, form 8551, which is used to document lead hazard evaluation and clearance results, can be removed from active files. This indicates that the immediate need for the form has ended, as clearance signifies that the property has passed inspections and is deemed safe from lead hazards. However, while the form can be removed from active files, it is important to understand that documentation regarding lead assessments often still needs to be retained for a certain period due to state regulations and for future reference if questions arise. This requirement helps ensure compliance with legal standards and can assist in tracking past assessments and clearance efforts. The context behind why the form can be removed relates to the procedural guidelines that indicate active files should only contain relevant documentation necessary for ongoing inspections or assessments. Once clearance is achieved, the form's role in that particular case has concluded, allowing for its removal from immediate access.