CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What is the minimum level of respiratory protection required for Class III tasks?

1. Half-mask respirator

2. Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) or Supplied Air Respirator (SAR)

3. N95 respirator

4. Dust mask

The correct answer is: Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) or Supplied Air Respirator (SAR)

The minimum level of respiratory protection required for Class III tasks is a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) or a Supplied Air Respirator (SAR). Class III tasks typically involve activities where there is a higher risk of lead exposure, necessitating a more robust form of respiratory protection to ensure the safety of the worker. PAPRs and SARs provide a higher degree of filtration and can filter out hazardous airborne contaminants effectively, safeguarding the user against the inhalation of lead particles. In scenarios where lead dust is prevalent or potentially high concentrations of lead are expected, using this level of respiratory protection is crucial to maintain a safe work environment. Other respiratory options such as half-mask respirators or N95 respirators may not provide adequate protection against lead exposure in these situations, nor do dust masks offer sufficient filtration for toxic substances like lead. Therefore, the choice of PAPR or SAR aligns with the necessary safety protocols for Class III tasks, highlighting the importance of proper respiratory protection in lead-related work.