CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What is the duration for which an employer must provide medical removal protection benefits after an employee is removed from exposure to lead?

1. 12 months

2. 18 months

3. 24 months

4. 36 months

The correct answer is: 18 months

An employer is required to provide medical removal protection benefits for 18 months after an employee has been removed from exposure to lead. This requirement is part of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations regarding lead exposure in the workplace, which are designed to ensure that employees who are removed due to lead-related health concerns receive adequate financial support while they are away from the work environment that poses a risk to their health. The 18-month period reflects a balance between ensuring that the employee has sufficient time to recover from any lead-related health issues and maintaining a manageable time frame for employers to support affected workers. This period allows for appropriate medical evaluation and treatment, as well as recovery time, ensuring that employees have access to necessary resources to protect their health in the long term. The other options are longer durations that exceed the stipulated requirement and do not align with the current regulations set forth by OSHA. Hence, 18 months is the specified duration for providing necessary benefits in these circumstances.